Injection Molding Tool Maker and CNC Programmer/Operator

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking an Injection Molding Tool Maker and CNC Programmer/Operator to join our dynamic team at Petmate. The Injection Molding Tool Maker and CNC Programmer/Operator is a dual-skilled role responsible for designing, fabricating, maintaining, and repairing precision molds for plastic injection molding, as well as programming and operating CNC machinery to produce high-accuracy components. This position plays a critical role in supporting manufacturing operations by ensuring tooling and machined parts meet exact specifications and production timelines.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Key Responsibilities:

Design, build, and maintain injection molds using both manual and CNC machining techniques.

Program, set up, and operate CNC machines (mills, lathes, EDM) to produce mold components and other precision parts.

Build and assemble molds to high precision tolerances.

Modify and repair existing molds and dies using CNCs and other machining related equipment to improve performance or resolve issues.

Interpret and work from technical drawings, blueprints, and CAD/CAM models.

Conduct mold trials and troubleshoot any functional or cosmetic defects in molded parts.

Work with injection molding technicians to validate new molds and improve cycle times.

Implement design changes based on test feedback and production performance

Perform preventative maintenance on molds and CNC equipment.

Inspect finished parts using precision measuring instruments to ensure quality standards are met.

Conduct regular maintenance and troubleshooting on CNC machines, ensuring they operate smoothly and efficiently

Train new employees on how to properly operate CNC machines and programs

Measure and examine completed parts to verify conformance to specifications using precision tools like micrometers and calipers

Keep a detailed record of processes, tool usage, and production output

Adhere to safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe working environment

Collaborate with engineering and production teams to optimize the tooling and machining processes

This list is not inclusive of the total scope of job functions to be performed. Duties and responsibilities may be added, deleted, or modified at any time.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Requirements:

Attention to detail

Strong problem-solving

Excellent communication

Excellent mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity.

Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

Familiarity with injection molding processes and materials (e.g., thermoplastics, resins).

Highly organized with a strong attention to detail and a sense of urgency.

Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.

High level of manual dexterity and good hand-eye coordination

Good attitude, quality and workmanship.

Must be able to work overtime as required.

Must be able to read, write and speak English.

Must provide own tools.

Education/Experience:

High School diploma or equivalent (preferred)

Vocational or technical training in CNC machining or a related field

5+ years’ experience years of hands-on experience operating and programming CNC machines.

3+ years in mold design and/or toolmaking for injection molding.

Proficiency with CAD/CAM software and interpreting technical drawings.

Strong understanding of mold mechanics, parting lines, ejector systems, cooling, and gating.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to sit and kneel. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to talk and listen.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Our facility operates with machinery that can be loud and requires ear protection and eye protection. The manufacturing environment can be fast-paced and physically demanding, with exposure to various materials and processes that may result in a dirty workspace. We prioritize safety and cleanliness, providing all necessary protective gear and maintaining strict hygiene standards. Despite the challenging conditions, we foster a collaborative and supportive atmosphere where teamwork and professional growth are highly valued.

ABOUT PETMATE

Petmate is a global leader in pet supply products. Some of our most beloved brands include Chuckit!®, Arm & Hammer®, Barkbone®, Gamma2®, HyperPet®, JW Pet®, La-Z-Boy®, Mad Cat®, Petmate®, Vittles Vault® and Wild Eats®.

Over 60 years ago, Petmate began with a single focus on providing safe pet transportation, which resulted in the creation of the first dog kennel. Flash forward to today, and the same love and bond that existed to provide safe travels for our pets now permeates through every step of pet and pet owners’ shared adventure.

Knowing that pets are every bit as much a part of the family, Petmate takes pride in developing new, superior products that improve the quality of life and enrich the bond created between people & their pets. From environmentally responsible manufacturing to rigorous product testing, we place safety at the core of what we make and how we make it.

Our 25 trusted brands continually drive innovation across pet categories, spanning dog and cat toys, feeding and watering, food storage, carriers, shelters, bedding, consumables and more.

OUR WHY: To enrich the lives of families by cultivating the bond between people & their pets

OUR VISION: Families everywhere trust us more than any other company to enhance the well-being of their pets at every step of their adventure

Petmate Core Values

OWN IT! We take full responsibility for our actions, decisions, and their outcomes

STEADFAST DETERMINATION: Steady pursuit of what's next with unwavering commitment and enthusiasm

DO THE RIGHT THING: Consistent alignment of actions and values in every situation, ensuring you're always true to what's right

SAFETY WITHOUT COMPROMISE: We prioritize the safety of employees, consumers, and pets without compromise

Petmate is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Full-time