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Mold Maker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mold Maker

Santa Ana, CA ยท On-site

$45 - $48/hr

Mold Maker Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Mold Maker to join our Tool Room team. The Mold Maker is responsible for manufacturing, repairing, and troubleshooting injection molds and tooling ...

The Mold Maker is responsible for manufacturing, repairing, and troubleshooting injection molds and tooling used in a high-volume injection molding environment. This position requires expertise in ...

Mold Maker

Glendale, CA ยท On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Mold Maker (Injection Molding) Industry: Aerospace & Defense Employment Type: Full-Time Location: Glendale Shift: Morning Job Summary: We are seeking a highly skilled Mold Maker to support the design ...

Mold Maker

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The mold maker directs machining and support teams through complex workflows, enabling smooth process flow and timely project execution. Key Responsibilities * Lead and guide the construction of ...

The Mold Maker will be expected to work with Senior Mold Makers as a support, Junior Mold Makers as a lead or independently as workload requires. The Mold Maker will also be expected to continue to ...

The mold maker directs machining and support teams through complex workflows, enabling smooth process flow and timely project execution. Key Responsibilities * Lead and guide the construction of ...

The mold maker directs machining and support teams through complex workflows, enabling smooth process flow and timely project execution. Key Responsibilities * Lead and guide the construction of ...

Mold Maker III

Huntington Beach, CA ยท On-site

$34.96 - $40/hr

The Mold Maker will be expected to work with Senior Mold Makers as a support, Junior Mold Makers as a lead or independently as workload requires. The Mold Maker will also be expected to continue to ...

Plastic Injection Mold Maker (Los Angeles) EZONYX BIO TECHNOLOGIES, Inc We are a dynamic technology start-up currently developing more than 100 innovative products and inventions with multiple ...

Journeyman Mold Maker

Madera, CA ยท On-site

$42.20/hr

Journey Mold Maker Role Description: To repair mold equipment by utilizing various tools and equipment to weld, file, grind, vent, polish, letter cut, lathe work, millwork etc. Key Responsibilities ...

Journey Mold Maker Role Description: To repair mold equipment by utilizing various tools and equipment to weld, file, grind, vent, polish, letter cut, lathe work, millwork etc. Key Responsibilities:

Journey Mold Maker Role Description: To repair mold equipment by utilizing various tools and equipment to weld, file, grind, vent, polish, letter cut, lathe work, millwork etc. Key Responsibilities ...

Plastic Injection Mold Maker

Harbor City, CA ยท On-site

$17.81 - $25/hr

A worldwide provider of injection molding products serving a diverse marketplace is looking for a Plastics Injection Mold "Mold Maker". Essential Functions: Design/Build/Repair tooling including ...

Mold Denicker

Ontario, CA ยท On-site

$21 - $24/hr

The mold denicker performs these activities: * Polishes cavities, vents and gates on molds by hand * Performs repairs by hand on molds, such as de-nicking cavities, sanding lands, repairing mold ...

The mold denicker performs these activities: * Polishes cavities, vents and gates on molds by hand * Performs repairs by hand on molds, such as de-nicking cavities, sanding lands, repairing mold ...

Mold Technician

Union City, CA ยท On-site

$40 - $47/hr

The Mold Maker ensures molds meet design specifications and tolerances for quality production. Key Responsibilities * Mold Construction & Fabrication * Mold Maintenance & Repair * Troubleshooting ...

Mold Technician

Union City, CA ยท On-site

$40 - $47/hr

The Mold Maker ensures molds meet design specifications and tolerances for quality production. Key Responsibilities * Mold Construction & Fabrication * Mold Maintenance & Repair * Troubleshooting ...

CNC Machinist

Fresno, CA ยท On-site

$40 - $42/hr

High school diploma or GED along withJourneyman Mold Maker certification is required. * 2+ years of experience as a mold maker in a manufacturing environment * Strong knowledge of mold construction ...

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Mold Maker information

See California salary details

$13

$27

$40

How much do mold maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for mold maker in California is $27.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $32.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mold maker?

Mold makers are skilled workers who have had specialized training in the design and implementation of molds manufacturing. They commonly work in the production of metal products, though they may also work with other materials such as plastic or rubber. Training for mold makers usually includes classes in CAS design, CNC machining, and using a lathe. These classes can be taken at a community college or a trade school. Mold makers also take classes in mathematics including geometry and trigonometry. In addition to classroom learning, mold makers take apprenticeships with master mold makers. Associate degree programs are available in mold making and machining but are not required by all employers if a candidate had requisite skills.

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

To thrive as a Mold Maker, you need expertise in precision machining, blueprint reading, and materials science, often supported by a technical diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with CNC machines, CAD/CAM software, and hand tools is crucial, along with certifications in mold making or tool and die. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong manual dexterity are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure the production of high-quality molds that meet specifications and support efficient manufacturing processes.

How do you become a mold maker?

To become a mold maker, individuals typically complete a high school diploma or equivalent and gain technical skills through an apprenticeship, vocational training, or technical school focused on machining, CAD design, and manufacturing processes. Experience with tools, precision measurement, and knowledge of materials like plastics and metals are essential, and certifications in machining or CAD software can improve job prospects.

What is the difference between Mold Maker vs Mold Technician?

AspectMold MakerMold Technician
Primary RoleDesign, build, and repair molds used in manufacturing processesOperate, maintain, and troubleshoot molds during production
Skills & CertificationsMachining, blueprint reading, welding, certifications in mold making or machiningEquipment operation, troubleshooting, basic machining skills, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentMachine shops, manufacturing plants, often in a workshop settingProduction floors, manufacturing facilities, often on-site during production runs

While both Mold Makers and Mold Technicians work closely with molds, Mold Makers focus on designing and constructing molds, requiring advanced machining and fabrication skills. Mold Technicians primarily operate and maintain molds during production, emphasizing troubleshooting and routine maintenance. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right role based on skills and responsibilities.

Is mold making a good career?

Mold making is a skilled trade that involves designing and fabricating molds for manufacturing processes, often requiring knowledge of machining, CAD software, and materials like steel or aluminum. It offers steady employment opportunities in manufacturing industries, with potential for advancement and good wages for experienced workers. Certification and hands-on experience are valuable for career growth in this field.

What are some common challenges mold makers face when working on custom mold projects?

Mold Makers often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex blueprints, working with tight tolerances, and meeting strict deadlines for custom projects. Each mold project can require unique problem-solving skills to address material differences and unforeseen design adjustments. Effective communication with engineers, designers, and machine operators is essential to ensure the final product meets specifications. Additionally, staying current with new technologies and machining techniques helps Mold Makers maintain efficiency and quality.

What does a mold maker do?

A Mold Maker is a skilled tradesperson who designs, creates, repairs, and modifies molds used in manufacturing processes like injection molding, die casting, and metal stamping. They work with various materials such as metals and plastics, using precision tools and machinery to ensure molds meet exact specifications. Mold Makers play a crucial role in industries like automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods, as they help produce parts that require high accuracy and consistency.

What are the most commonly searched types of Mold Maker jobs in California?

The most popular types of Mold Maker jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Mold Maker jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Mold Maker jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Mold Maker jobs?

Cities in California with the most Mold Maker job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Mold Maker jobs in CA?

For Mold Maker jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Mold Maker job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,379 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Mold Maker

Ambrit Engineering - USA

Santa Ana, CA โ€ข On-site

$45 - $48/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Mold Maker Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced Mold Maker to join our Tool Room team. The Mold Maker is responsible for manufacturing, repairing, and troubleshooting injection molds and tooling used in a high-volume injection molding environment. This position requires expertise in precision machining, blueprint reading, GD&T, mold construction, and mold repair to determine repair needs for Injection Molding (IM) molds, including predictive maintenance. Additional responsibilities may include general cleaning, welding, spotting and polishing.

The ideal candidate will possess strong toolmaking skills and hands-on experience operating manual and CNC machine tools to produce and repair mold components to precise specifications.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Build, repair, modify, and troubleshoot injection molds and mold components.

  • Manufacture mold components including cores, cavities, inserts, slides, lifters, ejector components, and related tooling.

  • Read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, CAD prints, and GD&T specifications.

  • Set up and operate tool room equipment including:

    • CNC milling machines

    • Manual milling machines

    • Surface grinders

    • Engine lathes

    • Wire EDM equipment

    • Drill presses and related machinery

  • Machine, fit, and assemble mold components to required tolerances.

  • Perform precision bench work including spotting, fitting, polishing, and assembly.

  • Repair damaged or worn mold components through machining, welding, grinding, and finishing operations.

  • Analyze tooling issues and determine appropriate corrective actions.

  • Verify dimensions and tolerances using precision measuring instruments.

  • Support engineering changes, mold improvements, and tooling modifications.

  • Perform mold tryout support and assist with tooling-related production issues.

  • Maintain accurate records of tooling repairs, modifications, and completed work.

  • Ensure all tooling and equipment are maintained in safe working condition.

  • Follow all company safety policies and procedures.

  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Tool Room Manager.

Required Qualifications
  • Minimum 5 years of Mold Maker experience in an injection molding or tooling manufacturing environment.

  • Strong understanding of injection mold construction and function.

  • Proficiency in blueprint reading and GD&T.

  • Experience operating CNC mills, manual mills, lathes, surface grinders, and Wire EDM equipment.

  • Skilled in precision machining, mold fitting, spotting, polishing, and assembly.

  • Experience repairing cores, cavities, slides, inserts, and other mold components.

  • Ability to perform precision measurements using micrometers, calipers, indicators, height gauges, and related inspection equipment.

  • Experience with welding and mold repair techniques.

  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

  • Knowledge of ISO standards and quality requirements.

  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications
  • 7+ years of Mold Maker experience.

  • Journeyman Toolmaker or equivalent experience.

  • Advanced CNC programming and machining experience.

  • TIG, laser, or micro-welding experience.

  • Experience with hot runner systems and complex multi-cavity molds.

  • Leadership or mentoring experience within a tool room environment.

Benefits
  • Competitive pay based on experience

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • Compnay Paid life insurance

  • 401(k)

  • Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays

  • Career Growth Opportunities

Schedule: Full-Time

Work Location: On-Site

You should be proficient in:

  • CAD Software
  • Injection Molding Experience
  • AS9100 Experience
  • Blueprint Reading