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Mold Maker Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Our client, a Tier 1 automotive supplier , is seeking a Mold Maker to join their team south of ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship or technical training program preferred. * Strong experience ...

Our client, a Tier 1 automotive supplier , is seeking a Mold Maker to join their team south of ... Completion of a formal apprenticeship or technical training program preferred. * Strong experience ...

You are trusted to handle the most difficult and complex tooling and molding projects, and you ... High school degree or equivalent 4 year certified Tool & Die apprenticeship + 10 years relevant ...

You are trusted to handle the most difficult and complex tooling and molding projects, and you ... High school degree or equivalent 4 year certified Tool & Die apprenticeship + 10 years relevant ...

Mold Maker Apprentice information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$27

$40

How much do mold maker apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for mold maker apprentice in Virginia is $27.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $32.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Mold Maker Apprentice job?

A Mold Maker Apprentice is an entry-level position where individuals learn to create, repair, and maintain molds used in manufacturing. Apprentices work under experienced mold makers, gaining hands-on experience with tools, materials, and machinery, such as lathes and milling machines. They also study blueprints, follow safety protocols, and refine their precision machining skills. This role is essential for developing expertise in mold-making, leading to a career as a skilled mold maker.

How much does a mold maker apprentice make?

A mold maker apprentice typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Apprentices often receive on-the-job training while gradually increasing their wages as they develop skills in mold design, machining, and assembly.

What does a typical day look like for a Mold Maker Apprentice?

As a Mold Maker Apprentice, your day typically involves assisting experienced mold makers with tasks such as reading technical drawings, measuring components, setting up machines, and assembling or repairing molds. You may operate various hand and power tools, inspect finished products for quality, and learn to troubleshoot common production issues. Apprentices often work in a workshop or manufacturing environment as part of a small team, collaborating closely with machinists, engineers, and quality assurance staff. This hands-on experience helps you develop the technical and teamwork skills needed for future advancement to a journeyman or lead mold maker position.

Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?

There is no age limit for a Mold Maker Apprentice, and many apprentices start at different ages. Employers often value skills, motivation, and willingness to learn over age, making 27 a suitable age to begin an apprenticeship in mold making or related trades.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Mold Maker Apprentice position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mold Maker Apprentice, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by vocational training in machining or manufacturing. Familiarity with hand tools, precision measuring instruments, and CNC machinery is important, and some roles may require OSHA safety certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, a willingness to learn, and effective communication help apprentices collaborate with experienced mold makers and address complex manufacturing tasks. These abilities ensure accurate mold creation, adherence to safety standards, and successful career development within the field.

How do you become a mold maker?

To become a mold maker, individuals typically complete a high school diploma or equivalent and gain relevant skills through a technical school, apprenticeship, or on-the-job training. Developing proficiency in machining, blueprint reading, and working with tools like CNC machines is essential, and some positions may require certifications in manufacturing or tooling. Experience in metalworking and attention to detail are important for success in this role.

Do mold makers make good money?

Mold maker apprentices typically earn lower wages during training, but experienced mold makers can earn a competitive salary, often ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 annually depending on location and skill level. Factors such as certifications, specialized tools, and overtime can influence earnings in this trade.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mold Maker jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Mold Maker jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Mold Maker Apprentice jobs in Virginia? For Mold Maker Apprentice jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mold Maker Apprentice jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Mold Maker Apprentice jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Mold Maker Apprentice jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Mold Maker Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Mold Maker Apprentice job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,637 per year, or $27.2 per hour.
Mold Maker

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Our client, a Tier 1 automotive supplier, is seeking a Mold Maker to join their team south of Richmond, VA.
This is a hands-on position responsible for building, repairing, maintaining, and troubleshooting plastic injection molds while supporting production and continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate enjoys solving technical problems, working with precision tooling, and collaborating with cross-functional teams in a manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Build, repair, assemble, and test plastic injection molds to meet production specifications.
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot tooling issues, making modifications and repairs as needed.
  • Perform preventative maintenance on injection molding machines and related equipment.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, hydraulic and pneumatic schematics, machine manuals, and technical drawings.
  • Plan and execute tool shop setups, selecting appropriate materials, tolerances, and machining methods.
  • Work closely with production, maintenance, quality, and engineering teams to resolve tooling issues and support new product launches.
  • Perform mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and basic PLC-related troubleshooting on molding equipment.
  • Maintain high standards of quality, safety, and adherence to company procedures.

Qualifications
  • Minimum of 5 years of mold making experience in an injection molding environment.
  • Completion of a formal apprenticeship or technical training program preferred.
  • Strong experience with plastic injection molds, mold assembly, repair, and troubleshooting.
  • Ability to read blueprints, machine manuals, and hydraulic and pneumatic schematics.
  • Experience with electrical systems and schematics.
  • Basic Siemens PLC programming and troubleshooting knowledge.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Automotive injection molding experience is preferred.
  • Basic SAP knowledge is a plus.
  • Self-motivated with excellent communication and organizational skills and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Why Join?
  • Opportunity to work for a well-established automotive supplier with a strong reputation in plastic injection molding.
  • Hands-on role where you'll work on a variety of complex molds and tooling projects.
  • Collaborative environment with close interaction between production, quality, maintenance, and engineering teams.
  • Stable manufacturing environment with opportunities to apply your technical expertise and contribute to process improvements.
  • Play a key role in supporting production uptime, tooling reliability, and the success of new manufacturing projects.