Job Description

• Our client, plastic manufacturing company is looking to hire a Tool & Die Maker, based in Roodepoort. This person will play a critical role in the in-house tooling operations, designing, manufacturing, repairing, and maintaining high-precision injection moulds, tools, jigs, and fixtures.
• This hands-on position requires expertise in creating moulds that ensure consistent, high-quality production with minimal defects, reduced cycle times, and extended tool life.
• Collaborating closely with design, engineering, and production teams to industrialise complex plastic components for demanding applications in automotive, mining, fibre optics, and other sectors.

Key Technical Responsibilities

• Design and manufacture new precision injection moulds using CAD/CAM software and advanced machining techniques to meet exact client specifications and production requirements.
• Perform high-accuracy machining operations (CNC milling, turning, surface grinding, wire EDM, etc.) on mould components, including cores, cavities, and inserts.
• Repair, refurbish, and maintain existing moulds to address wear, damage, or performance issues, including modifications for improved flow, cooling, or part quality.
• Conduct mould trials, adjustments, and validations to optimise moulding parameters, reduce scrap, and achieve efficient cycle times.
• Interpret technical drawings, 3D models, and GD&T specifications; utilise mould flow analysis tools where applicable.
• Troubleshoot tooling-related production issues, perform root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to minimise downtime.
• Collaborate with the engineering team on new product industrialisation, from concept through to full-scale production tooling.
• Maintain detailed records of tool modifications, maintenance schedules, spare parts inventory, and service history.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards, safety protocols, and best practices in a high-performance manufacturing environment.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, including recommendations for tooling enhancements or process optimisations.
• Support training of apprentices or junior team members on tool-making techniques and safe equipment operation.

Qualifications & Experience

• Trade Test Certificate as a Tool & Die Maker / Toolmaker
• Minimum 3 – 5 years’ proven experience as a Tool & Die Maker in an injection moulding environment, preferably working with engineering plastics and complex multi-cavity moulds.
• Hands-on expertise with CNC machines, EDM (wire and sinker), lathes, mills, grinders, and precision measuring equipment.
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM software for 3D tool design and programming; experience with SolidWorks Plastics or mould flow simulation is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of injection moulding processes, materials, heat treatment, and mould construction techniques.
• Familiarity with turnkey tooling projects, from design to production handover.