Plastics Processing and Mold Change Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Your mission

Own stable, efficient, and safe injection molding processes that hit quality targets every time.

Key outcomes

• High uptime across presses via proactive monitoring and swift issue resolution.
• Accurate mold changeovers with utilities connected, alignment verified, and mold protection confirmed.
• Processes locked to Master Setup Sheets with parameters documented and controlled.
• First-piece approvals and in-process checks completed with proper gauges and measurement tools.
• Defects like short shots, flash, splay, burns, and warpage eliminated through root cause analysis and corrective action.
• Reduced internal/external PPM through disciplined processing and continuous improvement.
• Safety-critical devices (guards, interlocks, drop bars, switches) checked and functional at all times.

What you will do

• Set up, start up, shut down, and troubleshoot injection molding machines and auxiliary equipment.
• Load, verify, and adjust temperatures, pressures, transfer positions, cycle times, and drying profiles.
• Monitor production and make data-driven adjustments to maintain quality and throughput.
• Answer operator concerns, respond to machine alarms, and correct process issues promptly.
• Reduce scrap and nonconforming output through process improvements and by coordinating mold maintenance.
• Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, overhead cranes, and other material handling equipment when certified/authorized.
• Flag equipment concerns and collaborate with maintenance for quick fixes and preventative actions.
• Verify material identity, lot traceability, and drying requirements; handle virgin and regrind correctly.
• Maintain setup sheets, process logs, downtime and scrap reporting, plus ERP transactions with accuracy.
• Participate in setup reduction and mold change initiatives to elevate throughput and OEE.
• Keep the workspace audit-ready with 5S and housekeeping discipline.
• Communicate process changes and shift updates to supervisors and incoming shifts.
• Coach and mentor operators and fellow technicians on standards, quality, and safety.
• Support CI projects across safety, quality, delivery, productivity, and cost.
• Perform other related tasks as assigned.

Skills and experience Must have

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Effectiveness, efficiency, and safety focus in a busy manufacturing environment.
• Multitasking ability and adherence to written work instructions.
• Ability to pass both written and performance tests for hi-lo (forklift) operation.
• Forklift experience and compliance with all forklift safety rules.
• 2–3+ years of hands-on injection molding with mold change experience.
• Working knowledge of thermoplastics, tooling safety, mold setup, and processing.
• Blueprint, setup sheet, and technical document literacy.
• Mechanical aptitude with strong troubleshooting skills.
• Willingness to work overtime and flexible shifts, including nights/weekends.

Nice to have

• 5+ years in plastics manufacturing with similar responsibilities.
• Exposure to IATF-based production and quality systems.
• Experience training others and leading by example.
• History of CI and safety contributions.
• Familiarity with scientific molding (RJG, Decoupled Molding).

Physical requirements and conditions

• Lift/push/pull up to 50 lbs.
• Stand, stoop, twist, climb, and perform repetitive tasks over long shifts (8–12 hours).
• Bend forward/downward at the waist 45&degree;+ and below the waist to ground level.
• Work near hot molds, presses, cranes, and in tight spaces.
• Use hands/fingers for grasping and handling.
• Reach above the head and at/below shoulder height.
• Navigate ramps and stairs.
• Hear and distinguish speech/alarms; frequent proximity to machinery with moderate noise.
• Close vision (≤20 inches) and color recognition.
• Hands-on tasks 60–80% of the time with some desk/computer work.
• Tolerate facility temperatures up to 90&degree;F and fluctuating hot/cold environments.
• Work independently with limited supervision.
• Remain stationary 50%–100% of the shift as needed.
• Climb on/off forklifts and standing lifts; access trailers, steps, and ladders.
• Comfort with heights; frequent exposure to moving parts, fumes, vibration, and potential electrical shock; work at high, precarious places.

Why you’ll like it here

• Competitive hourly pay aligned to your skills and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits with free medical/HSA for employees earning under $75,000 annually who elect individual coverage.
• 401(k) plan to invest in your future.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays.
• Weekly uniforms at no cost.
• Annual boot allowance for qualifying safety toe footwear.
• Diverse tooling exposure and real-world problem solving that grow your skills fast.

Equal access

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Frequency of duties, percent of time and work year may vary based on department or building assignment.