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Mold Designer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The Mold Maker works from designs to build and repair thermoplastic and thermoset injection molds to company standards. Our customers are automotive manufacturers and suppliers in one of the fastest ...

The Mold Maker works from designs to build and repair thermoplastic and thermoset injection molds to company standards. Our customers are automotive manufacturers and suppliers in one of the fastest ...

Mold Maker

Auburn Hills, MI ยท On-site

$34/hr

Able to read and interpret CAD mold and part designs * Licensed to operate hoists and power trucks preferred Skills: * Lathe work, milling, surface grinding, tool sharpening * Spotting, timing ...

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Mold Designer information

See Michigan salary details

$16

$29

$39

How much do mold designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for mold designer in Michigan is $29.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $36.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a mold designer?

To become a mold designer, typically a candidate needs a background in mechanical engineering or industrial design, along with proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Relevant experience in manufacturing or tooling, along with knowledge of materials and mold-making processes, is also important; some roles may require certifications or technical training in mold design. Continuous learning of industry standards and tools enhances job prospects in this field.

Which designer is highly paid?

In the field of mold design, senior mold designers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and certifications tend to earn higher salaries. Specialized expertise in complex mold projects and leadership roles also contribute to higher compensation levels for mold designers.

What Does a Mold Designer Do?

As a mold designer, you use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create plastic molds for manufacturing processes. Your job duties include designing molds, using CAD software and programs like Pro-E, Unigraphics Drawing, Solidworks, and AutoCAD, and visiting manufacturing facilities to make sure your mold designs work correctly. You can fulfill the majority of your responsibilities in the office, but a good mold designer frequents the manufacturing floor to inspect their product. The qualifications to start a career as a mold designer are an associate degree in plastics engineering technology or tool and manufacturing technology, and five to eight years of experience in the field. You need excellent problem-solving skills for this job as well.

Is mold making a good career?

Mold designing is a skilled profession involving creating molds for manufacturing plastic, metal, or other materials, often requiring knowledge of CAD software and manufacturing processes. It offers steady employment opportunities in industries such as automotive, consumer goods, and aerospace, with potential for advancement and specialization. The career typically requires technical training or apprenticeships and can provide stable income and job growth.

What does a mold designer do?

A mold designer creates detailed plans and specifications for molds used in manufacturing processes, such as injection molding or casting. They use CAD software to develop precise designs, considering factors like material flow, cooling, and durability to ensure the mold functions correctly and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mold Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mold Designer, you need strong skills in mechanical design, CAD software proficiency, and a solid understanding of materials and manufacturing processes, often supported by an engineering degree or technical certification. Expertise in tools like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and mold flow analysis software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with production teams are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure the creation of precise, efficient molds that meet production and quality standards.

What is the difference between Mold Designer vs Mold Engineer?

AspectMold DesignerMold Engineer
ResponsibilitiesDesigns mold components and layouts based on product specifications.Develops and improves mold processes, troubleshooting, and testing.
Required SkillsCAD proficiency, understanding of materials, design principles.In-depth engineering knowledge, testing, and process optimization skills.
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD labs, manufacturing facilities.Manufacturing plants, testing labs, R&D departments.
CertificationsCAD certifications, technical diplomas.Engineering degrees, certifications in manufacturing or plastics.

While Mold Designers focus on creating detailed mold designs, Mold Engineers oversee the entire mold development process, including testing and optimization. Both roles require technical skills and often collaborate closely, but Mold Engineers typically have a broader scope involving process improvements and troubleshooting.

What are some common challenges faced by Mold Designers, and how can they be addressed?

Mold Designers often encounter challenges such as balancing complex part geometries with manufacturability, minimizing cycle times, and ensuring tool longevity. Addressing these issues typically involves close collaboration with engineers and manufacturing teams to refine part designs, selecting appropriate materials, and leveraging simulation software to predict and resolve potential issues before production. Proactive communication and staying updated with the latest CAD and CAE tools can help Mold Designers overcome these challenges efficiently.

What are mold designers?

Mold designers are professionals who create detailed plans and blueprints for molds used in manufacturing processes, such as injection molding, blow molding, or casting. Their work involves designing molds that shape raw materials into finished products, ensuring efficiency, quality, and precision in production. Mold designers use specialized software like CAD to develop and test their designs before they are manufactured. They often collaborate closely with engineers, machinists, and production teams to optimize mold functionality and manufacturability.
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Mold Designer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Mold Designer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Mold Designer jobs in MI? For Mold Designer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Mold Designer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,447 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Senior Designer - Injection Molds

Hi-Tech Mold & Engineering

Rochester, MI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Are you interested in working in a team- based environment on innovative and challenging projects? We are looking for highly motivated injection mold Designers for our Team!
Our team members enjoy: a comprehensive benefit package, competitive wages, 401k, paid vacation, paid holidays, education reimbursement program, flexible schedule, on-site fitness center, and corporate sponsored team-building events.

The ideal candidate preferred would have 5+ years experience designing injection and compression molds. Catia experience a plus.

Responsibilities include, but not limited to:
• Injection mold designer of production molds
• Extensive knowledge of production injection mold design and manufacturing processes
• Proficient in 3D solid modeling, preferably Catia V5
• Complete feasibility for injection mold actions, i.e. slides, lifters, and core pulls
• Extensive knowledge of hot runner systems
• Design and implement engineering changes
• Participate in customer design reviews
• Capable of leading team projects
• Ability to multi-task design projects
• Current with latest industry standards and technologies

Join our team of professionals at a growing company committed to investing in the latest technologies including: Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) both metal and plastic, R&D technology center and state of the art equipment and software. Hi-Tech Mold & Engineering is a full service supplier for the plastic and tooling industries recognized as an industry leader.

Hi-Tech is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will make all employment related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. EEO/AA/M/F/Vets/Disabled

Apply at www.hitechmold.com

We are a drug free workplace