EDM Operator - Electrode Designer
$41,600–$72,800 year
On-siteDetroit, Michigan, United States
Job Summary
Extract and design electrodes from 3D mold models using Cimatron, including burn faces, spark gaps, and reference setup. Program and machine graphite and copper electrodes on high-speed CNC milling equipment, then set up and operate sinker (ram) EDM machines to burn cores, cavities, ribs, and detail into hardened tool steel. Establish burn parameters and orbiting strategies to achieve required SPI surface finishes and dimensional tolerances. Inspect electrodes and burns using micrometers, height gauges, and CMM data, while maintaining electrode tracking and performing routine machine maintenance for dielectric fluid and filtration. Collaborate with mold design, CNC, and assembly teams to ensure quality and efficient cycle times.
Required Qualifications
- 3+ years of experience in sinker (ram) EDM operation and/or electrode design in a mold or tool & die environment
- Solid understanding of the EDM process, including spark gaps, overburn, electrode wear, and SPI/VDI surface finishes
- Proficiency extracting and designing electrodes in Cimatron (or comparable CAD/CAM electrode software)
- Experience machining graphite and copper electrodes on CNC equipment, with the ability to read 3D models and 2D drawings
- Familiarity with hardened tool steels and their behavior in the EDM process, plus proficiency with precision measuring tools
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Hands-on manufacturing mindset with the ability to collaborate across shop-floor and engineering teams
- Excellent communication skills and comfort working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
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