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Mold Maker Duties and Responsibilities

Mold makers carry out a range of different duties, which vary depending on the organization they work for. Based on job listings we analyzed, a mold maker’s duties typically involve:

Constructing New Tooling Mold makers create and develop new tooling for molds, die cast tooling, and metal stamping tools, using the specifications that have been provided from a separate design team.

Setting up Equipment Mold makers set up equipment by studying the mold requirements and materials. They look at the tolerances for each to make sure they’re appropriate for the intended use.

Planning Molds Using blueprints, mold makers plan the molds they need to create by following instructions and sketches. Mold makers usually work with specifications from the design team so they need to be familiar with schematics and CAD programs for this aspect of the job.

Maintaining or Repairing Existing Molds Mold makers are responsible for making sure the existing tooling and molds are still effective, maintaining them regularly and repairing any damage when required.

Creating Prototype Products To check how things will work, mold makers create prototype products, fixtures, and jigs prior to production.

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Mold Maker Skills and Qualifications

Mold makers should have the technical skill and dexterity to work with precision equipment and tools, as well as have great math skills and judgement. Typically, employers will require a high school diploma or a vocational school qualification, as well as the following abilities:

  • Dexterity – mold makers must have strong manual dexterity to be able to keep their arm steady and maneuver their wrists and fingers to create the molds
  • Problem-solving abilities – this job requires the ability to identify problems during a task and find or develop solutions to them, so good problem-solving skills are a must
  • Technical skills – mold makers need to be able to inspect products and select the right equipment, tools, and measuring devices for the job, so technical skills are important to this role
  • Communication skills – mold makers often work as part of a team so excellent communication and teamworking skills are essential to working effectively on projects as a team
  • Time management – mold makers should be able to manage their time effectively in order to carry out multiple tasks at once and still meet the necessary deadlines
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Mold Maker Education and Training

The minimum requirement to become a mold maker is a high school diploma, although technical training at a vocational school is often preferred by employers. Employers may also prefer candidates who have completed an accredited apprenticeship program in mold making, or who have previous experience in this field.

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Mold Maker Salary and Outlook

The median annual salary for mold makers is nearly $63,000, according to PayScale. Mold makers in the 10th percentile earn around $40,000 annually, while the highest paid earn close to $99,000 a year. Additional earning potential for the higher end of this pay scale can reach up to $6,000 for profit sharing opportunities, and up to $5,000 for bonuses. Just over half of employers provide dental coverage as part of their benefits package for this job, and around 80 percent offer medical coverage. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the growth rate for this sector is expected to decline by seven percent through 2026.

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Helpful Resources

We’ve collected some of the best resources to help you learn how to develop a career as a mold maker.

Mold-Making Handbook – this in-depth guide covers all aspects of mold making and will serve as a great introduction and reference for those new to the industry. It goes into great detail and offers plenty of technical expertise, so readers with previous experience will also benefit from the topics written about here.

Secrets of Expert Mold Making and Resin Casting – this book teaches how to make professional molds and castings, as well as information on different materials and techniques. The guide includes over 100 detailed drawings, from basics to advanced procedures.

Mold-Making Handbook – an essential resource, this handbook captures the latest techniques and methods, as well as new chapters with information on micro injection molds, rubber industry molds, and rapid prototyping. It’s a must-have for beginners looking for an introduction to mold processing and construction.

Mold Making Technologies – this blog covers all areas of mold making, from the latest equipment and technologies, to best practices and news from the industry. It’s a great way to stay up to date with what’s new in mold making, as well as learn and develop knowledge.