Model Maker III

About the role

At A-dec, we do more than create the highest quality products and services for the dental industry; we strive to deliver a superior employment experience for each of our team members. With an environment that encourages and assists each person in developing to their highest potential, a career at A-dec is incredibly rewarding.

Overview

The Model Maker III requires expertise in building prototypes, special parts, components, and assemblies to verify design and manufacturability. The role involves assisting mechanical designers and engineers in design, providing input on manufacturing feasibility, and serving as a department lead.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Builds prototypes and other special parts, components, assemblies (to +/-.0001 tolerances), jigs, fixtures, and tools necessary for prototype fabrications working from engineering drawings, sketches, and verbal instructions.
• Acts as the expert in setting up and operating all machines and equipment in the Model Shop, (i.e., lathes, milling machines, press brake, shear, surface grinders, and 3D printing) and performs sheet metal work as well as routine equipment lubrication and maintenance.
• Performs soldering and various types of welding with minimal assistance. Also utilizes concepts of efficient tooling with some assistance.
• Assists mechanical designers and engineers by providing input on design and manufacturing feasibility.
• Frequently applies knowledge of hydraulics, pneumatics and electrical principles and uses their expertise on the concepts of efficient tooling.
• Assesses incoming jobs, assigns work accordingly, and cross trains less experienced Model Makers.
• Records necessary job data and utilizes CAM/CAD (MasterCam, Esprit) software to create efficient CNC programs with minimal assistance.
• Responsible for procurement of necessary materials, manages time and assigned work effectively, ensuring deadlines are met, maintains an acceptable dependability level, and follows all safety guidelines.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Able to program complex 3D parts.
• Adept at working with a variety of prototype materials including steels, aluminum, and plastics.
• Able to validate critical features and dimensions using hand metrology equipment.
• Must possess a strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to improvise and work effectively with minimal supervision.
• Ability to effectively communicate technical concepts, both orally and in writing, with engineering and manufacturing groups.
• Must possess basic hand tools and standard measuring equipment as required to fabricate and accurately measure work being performed. Must also have a basic understanding of shop math, CAD/CAM software, and CNC operations.
• Ability to sequentially plan and perform polishing and finishing operations, with a working knowledge of plating and anodizing.
• Competent understanding of shop math, trigonometry, CAD/CAM software, and CNC operations.
• Ability to remain flexible under changing priorities and non-routine interruptions.

Education and Experience

• Generally, requires 8+ years of experience in model making, machining, maintenance, tooling operations, and/or precision sheet metal fabrication or must have a combination of relevant education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• A-dec product knowledge including function, interrelationships, and desired operating characteristic is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise maneuver up to 35 pounds with or without assistance on a routine basis. Must have manual hand dexterity to grasp, operate tools and equipment repetitively. Able to walk, stand, sit, bend, reach, and occasionally kneel, climb steps, and twist throughout an entire shift. Some areas may be exposed to chemicals, noise, vibration and /or dust, and require the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE); such as, but not limited to safety glasses, hearing protection, foot protection, etc.