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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 ...

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 Jul 27, 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.
Mold Maker

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


US Farathane rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 84 rated plastic manufacturers


Job description

Delta Technologies is an industry leading tooling company who is searching for a Mold Maker with experience working with plastic injection molds. 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 growing automotive regions.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Troubleshoot tool problems in concept and on the shop floor.
  • Performs conventional machining as follows: Lathe work – turning, drilling, threading; Tool Sharpening; Mill work; Surface grinding; Welding; Drilling; Tapping/Threading; Polishing.
  • Performs conventional machining, spotting, timing, completion of details and assembly of molds.
  • Perform revisions, repairs and upgrades to molds or dies.
  • Proficient operation of all machines and tools necessary to perform mold or die build and repair functions.
  • Review prints and programs and develop process to complete job.
  • Maintain quality of parts through inspection and communication with fellow teammates.
  • Work with the designers, programmers, and assemblers to produce/repair the necessary components.
  • Identify process and equipment problems, and suggest improvements.
  • Work with apprentices to upgrade their skill levels.
Job Requirements
  • Ability to operate all in-house machine shop equipment to rework worn or damaged tooling and fabricate simple tooling.
  • Ability to determine best methods and procedures to determine causes of mold defects, as well as correct and prevent actions. Knowledge of typical mold functions.
  • Ability to work in a steady professional manner with little or no supervision required.
  • Knowledge and understanding of plastic processing requirements for molds such as venting, heating, cooling and polishing.
  • Mechanical knowledge and skills to safely, effectively and efficiently to disassemble, clean, troubleshoot and reassemble 50 to 75% of companies active molds.
  • Ability to measure and calculate basic tooling stack ups to determine component preloads and clearances and verify print dimensions.
  • Familiarity with hot runner function basic maintenance and troubleshooting techniques like probe tip cleaning removal and reworking basic electrical troubleshooting of probes heaters thermal couplers and manifolds.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work methodically and meticulously during repairs and build of new molds.
  • Minimum 3 years of experience required.
  • Knowledge and understanding of tool design, construction techniques, maintenance and troubleshooting.
  • Ability to read and interpret part and mold designs in CAD. Ability to read and understand procedures, work instructions, safety rules and warning signs.
  • Ability to use inspection tools such as micrometers, indicators, vernier calipers, optical comparator, etc.
  • Knowledge and understanding of safe operation of hoists, hand trucks, power trucks, and die trucks; licensed in power truck operation.
  • Interpersonal skills necessary to exchange information with variety of staff.
Benefits
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401K with Company Match
  • Paid Holidays and Vacation
  • Job Promotional Opportunities
Interested applicants must submit their resume for consideration using our applicant tracking system. Due to the high volume of applications received, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. Unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies, or similar, will not be paid a fee and become the property of Delta Technologies.

The specific statements above are not intended to be all-inclusive.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.

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