Toolmaker

Location: Bedford
Sector: Manufacturing | Tooling | Precision Engineering

Working Hours:

Monday to Thursday: 07:00 – 16:00
Friday: 07:00 – 13:00 (early finish every week)

About the Role

We are pleased to be recruiting on behalf of a well-established and highly regarded manufacturing business in Bedford, seeking an experienced Toolmaker to join their in-house Tooling team.

This is a hands-on position responsible for the design, manufacture, maintenance, and repair of moulds and tooling used in the production of moulded foam products. These products are supplied across a range of sectors including automotive, rail, aviation, and furniture.

This opportunity is ideal for a skilled Toolmaker who takes pride in their craftsmanship, values long-term stability, and is keen to play a key role in the ongoing development and future succession of the tooling function.

You will collaborate closely with Production, Engineering, and Sales teams, supporting both new product development and the continued efficiency of manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities

Tool & Mould Manufacture

Produce patterns and master models from technical drawings, templates, or foam samples
Manufacture moulds using wet lay or cast resin techniques
Machine tooling using CNC (3-axis), lathes, milling machines, and EDM (5-axis experience advantageous)
Carry out welding and fitting of frames, pins, and inserts
Perform hand finishing and polishing of moulds
Apply paints and sealants as required

Mould Maintenance & Repair

Repair, maintain, and modify existing moulds
Diagnose and resolve tooling-related production issues
Implement modifications to enhance product quality and manufacturing efficiency

Process & Product Support

Support trials for new foam products and tooling
Optimise tooling design elements such as venting, draft angles, and parting lines
Work collaboratively with engineers and designers

Quality & Continuous Improvement

Inspect and measure tooling to ensure accuracy
Maintain high standards of durability and repeatability
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives

General Duties

Liaise with Sales regarding tooling requirements
Maintain a clean, safe, and organised workshop environment
Adhere to all Health & Safety regulations and procedures

Skills & Experience

Essential:

Proven experience as a Toolmaker or Precision Engineer
Ability to interpret and work from technical drawings
Experience working with wood, metals, and resins
Skilled in CNC machining (3-axis), milling, turning, and welding
Strong problem-solving abilities
Effective communication skills

Desirable:

Experience with foam or composite tooling
5-axis CNC machining experience
Understanding of foam material behaviours

Qualifications

NVQ Level 3 / City & Guilds (or equivalent)
BTEC / HNC / HND in Engineering
Completed engineering apprenticeship

What’s on Offer

Competitive salary: £35,000 – £38,000
Early finish every Friday
Secure, permanent position within a stable business
Opportunity to work on in-house tooling projects
Long-term career development and succession opportunities
Supportive and collaborative team environment

To apply for this job email your details to antoniacusack@mkpersonnel.co.uk