Sinker EDM Technician

About the role

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Sinker EDM Technician to set up, program, and operate CNC sinker EDM equipment in a precision moldmaking environment. This role is responsible for producing intricate mold components and electrodes to exacting dimensional, surface-finish, and quality requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, program, operate, and monitor CNC sinker EDM machines to manufacture precision mold components, cavities, cores, inserts, and related tooling.
• Create, edit, and optimize CNC EDM programs based on engineering drawings, part models, electrode designs, setup documentation, and machining requirements.
• Adjust machine settings, burn parameters, offsets, discharge gaps, orbital patterns, flushing conditions, and finishing cycles to achieve required geometry, surface finish, and tolerances.
• Apply a strong understanding of the EDM process, including electrode wear, material characteristics, burn conditions, orbiting strategies, spark gaps, and roughing and finishing operations.
• Produce components to tight tolerances, including work requiring accuracy as close as ±0.0002 inch.
• Surface grind graphite, copper, and/or other electrode materials to required sizes, flatness, and finish specifications.
• Set up and maintain workholding systems, including EROWA and/or 3R tooling systems, ensuring repeatable positioning and accurate alignment.
• Inspect electrodes, workpieces, and finished components using indicators, micrometers, calipers, gauges, and other precision measuring equipment.
• Read and interpret blueprints, GD&T, CAD models, setup sheets, and inspection criteria to ensure all work meets specifications.
• Troubleshoot EDM machine, programming, electrode, flushing, alignment, dimensional, and surface-finish issues; make adjustments to maintain quality and productivity.
• Perform routine machine maintenance, maintain clean and organized work areas, and report equipment concerns in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with moldmakers, CNC machinists, engineering, quality, and production teams to resolve technical challenges and improve processes.
• Follow all safety, quality, documentation, and housekeeping procedures.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years of hands-on experience setting up, programming, and operating CNC sinker EDM equipment in a moldmaking, toolroom, precision-machining, or similar manufacturing environment.
• Experience with AgieCharmilles FORM 20 equipment is preferred; experience with comparable CNC sinker EDM machines will be considered.
• Demonstrated knowledge of sinker EDM machining processes, including orbital patterns, discharge gaps, electrode wear, flushing, burn parameters, and material differences.
• Ability to independently interpret drawings and part models, write and modify programs, establish setups, and complete work to specification.
• Experience surface grinding electrodes, preferably graphite and/or copper electrodes.
• Familiarity with EROWA, 3R, or comparable precision workholding and palletization systems.
• Proven ability to hold close tolerances, including ±0.0002 inch, while maintaining consistent quality and surface finish.
• Proficiency using precision inspection tools such as indicators, micrometers, calipers, pin gauges, height gauges, and comparators.
• Strong blueprint-reading, GD&T, troubleshooting, mathematical, and mechanical-aptitude skills.
• Reliable, safety-conscious, quality-driven professional with strong attention to detail and the ability to work independently or as part of a collaborative moldmaking team.