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Mold Maker Apprentice Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Mold Maker Apprentice information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$14

$30

$44

How much do mold maker apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for mold maker apprentice in Santa Rosa, CA is $30.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $35.72 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 Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Mold Maker jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
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What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Mold Maker Apprentice jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Mold Maker Apprentice job openings:
Mold Maker Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mold Maker Apprentice job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,459 per year, or $30 per hour.

Mold Maker

Wright Engineered Plastics - A Seaway Plastics Company

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$34 - $45/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Ask about our $1,000 Sign-On Bonus!!
Pay range: $35hr-$50hr
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:
  • Generate cutter paths on all mold designs
  • Interphase with Designers and PM’s when areas are unclear
  • Write programs for machines
  • Set-up machines
  • Check shut offs, final fit, and assemble molds
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Responsible to build and revise Customer owned molds
  • Strategizes sequence of operations including visualizing shape of cavity core work in mold
  • Reads and interprets blueprints to match CAD files of tool being built.
  • Verifies dimensions, using micrometers calipers, gauge blocks, dial indicators, and other associated inspection tools
  • Requires understanding of 3D files, sections, views and projections.
  • Operates all pertinent equipment to accomplish mold build complete
  • Provide input on design of vents, cores, gates to engineering as needed
  • Installs pertinent electronics, pneumatics, and hydraulics associated with mold build.
  • Trains and guides work of apprentices.
  • Operates all Tool Room equipment at a high level of competency
  • Complete mold build in the timeframe given
  • Plan approach to build to maximize build in quoted time given
  • Be able to explain what is needed and expectations from the job shop worksheet to fellow workers on same project
  • Understands principles of all types of cutting tools and processes for each
  • Create drawings for any specialized work needed to perform mold build i.e. water lines, special cutters, EDM or wire work
  • Create polishing map for the polishing department
QUALITIES FOR SUCCESS:
  • Demonstrates Core Values
    • We are customer focused
    • We execute
    • We win together
    • We are respectful
  • High School diploma or GED
  • 5+ yrs in the tool making trade
  • Proficient geometry and math
  • Computer literate in software pertinent to mold builds i.e. Master CAM programming
  • Understands metals and tolerances
  • Ability to independently operate and validate work out of all tool room equipment at a high level of competency
  • Self – starter
  • Professional and respectful
  • Ability to work in a team environment
  • Ability to readily adapt to changes in customer demands and come up with workable solutions
  • Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of management, peers, and outside customers
  • Able to communicate all levels and functions of a mold build
  • Able to carry maximum unassisted lift of 60lbs
  • Occasional climbing steps, walking and standing on uneven terrain, reaching with hands and arms, stooping, kneeling, crouching, twisting, bending, handling, turning, balancing, carrying, grasping

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