Toolmaker

Location: Cambridgeshire

Job Title:

Toolmaker - Plastic Injection Moulding

Department:
Engineering
Working

Schedule:

Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 4.30pm with half hour unpaid break.

Salary: £35k - £42k

Job Purpose:

To manipulate 3D CAD files. To programme set and run CNC milling machines to produce mould tool components and EDM electrodes.

Job Summary

The Toolmaker is responsible for the manufacture, assembly, maintenance, repair, and modification of plastic injection moulds and tooling to ensure optimal production performance, quality, and safety. This role requires a highly skilled tradesperson with strong technical knowledge of injection moulding tools, precision machining, and problem-solving in a production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manufacture, assemble, fit, and test new injection mould tools and components.

• Perform routine and breakdown maintenance on injection moulds to ensure consistent production output.

• Diagnose tooling issues, identify root causes, and implement effective corrective actions.

• Modify and improve existing moulds to enhance quality, cycle time, and efficiency.

• Interpret engineering drawings, CAD data, and technical specifications accurately.

• Operate and set up toolroom equipment including CNC and manual milling machines, lathes, grinders, and EDM machines.

• Carry out polishing, bench fitting, spotting, and assembly to high precision standards.

• Work closely with production, quality, and engineering teams during mould trials and production start-ups.

• Ensure all work complies with health, safety, and company standards.

• Maintain accurate records of tool maintenance, repairs, and modifications.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives and lean manufacturing practices.

Qualifications & Experience

• Recognised Toolmaker apprenticeship or equivalent trade qualification.

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in plastic injection moulding tooling (preferred).

• Strong knowledge of injection mould design, materials, and processing requirements.

• Experience with hot runner systems, cooling systems, and complex multi-cavity tools.

• Ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings and CAD models.

Skills & Competencies

• High level of precision, attention to detail, and workmanship.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Good communication and collaboration skills.

• Strong time management and ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Computer literacy for documentation and tooling records.

Working Conditions

• Workshop and manufacturing environment.

• May require shift work, overtime, or on-call support.

• Manual handling and use of machinery and tools required.

Health & Safety

• Strict adherence to all workplace health and safety policies.

• Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times