Excellent negotiating and organizational skills are desirable. These positions generally require a candidate to be able to perform highly skilled precision metal working, designing mold using a CAD system, performing maintenance, repairs and construction of plastic injection molds and mold prototypes, analyzing specifications, fabricating parts necessary for construction of new equipment, and performing intricate milling, grinding, etc. Knowledge of mechanics, shop mathematics, metal properties, and layout machining procedures required. Ability to create and read drawings, blueprints and sketches is also required, as well as ability to operate mills, lathes, jig borers, grinders, and shapers. Attention to detail and creativity are desirable traits.
Opportunities exist for inspectors, supervisors, engineers, liaison specialists and managers.
Most upper-level opportunities require at least a Bachelor's degree, plus some related experience in a manufacturing environment. Attention to detail and the ability to focus on meeting the needs of the customer are also desirable. Candidates for positions in this area must be able to work both independently and in a team environment. Good communication skills are critical. Engineers must be able to take abstract ideas and turn them into workable products by working with an interdisciplinary team to successfully take a product from concept to completion.