Mold Maker Apprentice Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Title

Mold Maker

Department

Diamond Turning

Reports to

Diamond Turning Manager

SEE YOUR CAREER THROUGH A NEW LENS WITH RPO!

RPO is a global leader in precision optics, optical components, and optical assemblies. We specialize in a full spectrum of products & services including – Design and Engineering, Systems Integration, Lens Assembly, Visible and Infrared Components, Glass and Plastic Molded Aspheres, and Thin Film Coating. As one of the fastest growing companies in Rochester, RPO offers exciting career paths and work on market-leading programs. See below one of many career opportunities to join the RPO team!

Position Overview

The Mold Maker will be responsible for the fabrication, modification, repair, maintenance, and continuous improvement of precision molds, mold components, tooling, and fixtures used in the manufacturing of precision optical injection molded products. This role serves as a technical expert within our Diamond Turning group, supporting both production and development activities through precision machining, troubleshooting, process improvement, and tooling design.

The ideal candidate possesses a strong foundation in mold making and toolmaking principles, exceptional machining skills, and the ability to independently diagnose and resolve complex tooling issues. This individual will work closely with Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Plastic Injection Molding personnel to ensure molds and tooling consistently meet performance, quality, and production requirements while supporting the development of new products and processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, repair, modify, and maintain precision molds, mold components, and tooling used in optical injection molding operations.
• Evaluate mold and tooling performance, identify root causes of issues, and implement corrective actions to improve quality, reliability, and productivity.
• Fabricate, modify, and fit precision mold components, inserts, fixtures, and tooling to exact specifications.
• Support mold changeovers, tooling validation, and production startup activities as required.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Manufacturing teams to evaluate tooling designs for manufacturability, functionality, and long-term performance.
• Interpret engineering drawings, GD&T requirements, sketches, and work instructions to manufacture and modify tooling components.
• Design, fabricate, and maintain fixtures and inspection aids to support manufacturing operations.
• Perform precision machining operations utilizing manual mills, lathes, grinders, and other conventional machine shop equipment.
• Support diamond turning operations and develop an understanding of processes associated with the fabrication of optical mold components and mold pins.
• Assist with process development, tooling improvements, and continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, throughput, and cost reduction.
• Estimate machining times, tooling requirements, and manufacturing approaches for tooling-related projects.
• Lead or assist in equipment, tooling, and fixture setup activities within the department.
• Document tooling modifications, repairs, maintenance activities, and process improvements as required.
• Serve as a technical resource and mentor for less experienced personnel within the department.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required. Associate degree, vocational training, apprenticeship, or formal toolmaking education preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of experience as a Mold maker, Toolmaker, Precision Machinist, or similar skilled trade within a manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated experience troubleshooting, repairing, modifying, and maintaining precision molds and tooling.
• Strong knowledge of machine shop practices, machining methods, tooling design, and precision manufacturing techniques.
• Experience operating manual machining equipment, including mills, lathes, surface grinders, and related machine shop equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), and technical specifications.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to diagnose complex tooling and manufacturing issues.
• Experience designing and fabricating fixtures and tooling components.
• Proficiency with precision measurement equipment and inspection techniques.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Effective communication skills and ability to collaborate across Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Production teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and standard computer applications.
• Experience with SolidWorks, Mastercam, CAMWorks, or similar CAD/CAM software is preferred.
• Experience supporting optical manufacturing, precision molding, diamond turning, medical device manufacturing, aerospace, or other high-precision manufacturing environments is highly desirable.

Core Competencies:

• Results-Oriented: Motivated, hard-working and ready to level-up.
• Curious: You never stop learning and have an insatiable desire to gain new skills and knowledge.
• Process Oriented: Well organized, demonstrating attention to detail.
• Analytical: Possess a “If there’s a problem, I’ll find a solution” attitude.
• Accountable: Demanding the highest quality from yourself and team members.
• Detail-Oriented: Have excellent time management and organizational skills.
• A Team Player: Reliable, collaborative, flexible with a positive ‘get things done’ attitude.

Additional Requirements:

Pursuant to ITAR, EAR, and other export compliance laws and regulations, applicants for this position must be U.S. Persons as defined by U.S. law, i.e., U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents ("Green Card" holders), persons granted refugee status or asylum status in the United States, or temporary residents granted amnesty.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package linked to your experience and performance.
• 401(k) with company match and Tuition Reimbursement opportunities.
• Health, dental, vision, HSA, & life insurance.
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and 11 paid company holidays

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Work is performed within a manufacturing, tooling, and machine shop environment supporting precision optical manufacturing operations.
• Regular interaction with molds, tooling, machining equipment, diamond turning equipment, and precision measurement instruments.
• Requires prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, reaching, and working at machines, benches, and inspection stations.
• Frequent use of hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring equipment to fabricate, repair, inspect, and maintain tooling and mold components.
• Ability to safely lift, carry, push, and pull tooling, fixtures, molds, and materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Requires strong manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to perform precision machining, assembly, fitting, and inspection tasks.
• Visual acuity is required to inspect tooling, verify dimensions, identify defects, and perform detailed precision work.
• Must be comfortable working around machining equipment, rotating machinery, cutting tools, coolants, and other manufacturing equipment while following all safety procedures.
• May occasionally work with oils, lubricants, cleaning solutions, and other materials commonly found within a machine shop environment.
• Ability to maintain concentration and attention to detail while performing complex machining, troubleshooting, and tooling-related activities.
• Occasional overtime, weekend work, or schedule flexibility may be required to support production schedules, tooling priorities, and department objectives.

Disclaimer:

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Rochester Precision Optics is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our business and our people.

EOE/AA/Race/Gender/Disability/Veteran

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States, and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.