About Us:
Herman Mold + Tooling is a local, Fairfield, Iowa, company that manufactures aluminum molds used to make plastic products. Backed by 39 years of experience, we combine precision engineering with custom tooling to build specialized extrusion blow molds. This allows our clients to produce durable, high-performance hollow products—ranging from heavy-duty industrial containers and traffic safety gear to complex automotive components. Today, we proudly serve a variety of industries, including construction, agriculture equipment, automotive, lawn and garden, and consumer products.
We are seeking an experienced Moldmaker to build, repair, and maintain blow molds and tooling to precise specifications. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with mold construction, a strong understanding of blueprint reading and mold design, and a commitment to producing high-quality, precision work.
This position is for day shift 7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Monday - Friday.
Responsibilities
- Build new extrusion blow molds (cavities, pinch-offs, neck rings, base inserts, and related tooling) from engineering drawings, blueprints, and CAD/CAM data
- Machine and fit mold components to tight tolerances, including split lines, parting surfaces, and cooling/venting features
- Fit and align pinch-off areas to ensure clean parison weld and proper part flash characteristics
- Perform mold repairs, modifications, and preventive maintenance, including pinch-off and cavity rework
- Operate other precision machine tools as needed
- Fit, assemble, and hand-finish mold components, including polishing, texturing, and engraving as needed
- Drill and fit cooling/water lines and venting to ensure proper mold performance and cycle times
- Troubleshoot mold issues during trial runs and production (e.g., parison distribution, pinch-off, venting, cooling) and make corrective adjustments
- Read and interpret complex engineering drawings, blueprints, and mold layouts
- Use precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, height gauges, CMM, etc.) to verify part accuracy
- Maintain detailed and accurate records of mold builds, repairs, and modifications
- Follow all shop safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized work area
- Collaborate with engineers, designers, and other toolmakers to meet project timelines
Requirements
- Minimum 5+ years of experience as a moldmaker or in a related precision toolmaking role; extrusion blow mold experience strongly preferred
- Strong knowledge of extrusion blow mold design, construction, and function
- Familiarity with pinch-offs, neck rings, cavities, base inserts, cooling/venting systems, and split-line fit
- Proficiency operating lathes and other toolroom machinery
- Ability to read and interpret complex blueprints, technical drawings, and CAD models
- Experience with mold trials, troubleshooting, and process adjustments preferred
- Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects/deadlines
- High school diploma or equivalent required; formal toolmaking apprenticeship, trade school, or technical certification preferred
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50lbs
- Manual dexterity for precision hand work
- Ability to work in a shop environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and lubricants
