Plastics Manufacturing Equipment Technician -- Printing & Molding

Job Description

Job Description

Plastics Manufacturing Equipment Technician — Printing & Molding

Do you like solving real-time production puzzles? Picture this: a molding cell has drifted out of spec, a labeler needs a quick tweak, and a purge is underway on an extrusion line. You assess, adjust, document, and get everything back on track—safely and efficiently. If that sounds like your kind of challenge, read on.

Your mission

• Commission production lines by starting machines and confirming setpoints are correct
• Operate a range of equipment: extrusion blow molding, extrusion, injection molding, injection blow molding, lining, labeling, pad printing, and silk-screen
• Keep systems healthy: clean filters, carry out minor maintenance, and oversee purging cycles
• Verify materials: ensure proper sleeves, boxes, labels, and raw materials are in use by checking part numbers
• Protect quality: run in-process checks and compare samples to specifications
• Respond quickly: make machine adjustments to resolve issues; alert your supervisor when repairs or maintenance are required
• Restore operations: re-start equipment after maintenance work is completed
• Capture knowledge: prepare documentation describing problems, causes, and corrective actions
• Track performance: record production and quality data (manual or via data collector) and close out runs accurately
• Model safety and order: maintain a clean, organized area and reinforce housekeeping and safety policies
• Build capability: assist in training other Technician Operators; provide coverage during breaks and lunches
• Assist with special projects and other related duties as needed

Where you’ll contribute beyond the core

• As needed: make boxes, pack/test products, and apply labels

What it takes Education

High school diploma or equivalent with mechanical aptitude and technical training specific to packaging, plastics, and printing equipment.

Experience

1–3 years of machine operation within the packaging/plastics sector, demonstrating consistent quality and throughput.

Competencies

• Language: Basic reading, writing, and speaking
• Math: Proficient in arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry; able to compute fractions, percentages, ratios, proportions, variables, and formulas
• Reasoning: Apply logical thinking to practical problems with multiple concrete variables; interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule formats
• Technology: Basic to intermediate computer literacy; experience with CNC machines

Tools and systems

• Mechanic’s tools, calipers, gauges, and weight scales
• Extrusion blow molders, extruders, injection molders, injection blow molders
• Lining machines, labelers, pad printers, silk-screeners

Physical/visual requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, moving, talking, hearing, pushing, carrying, reaching, and grasping
• Normal mental and visual attention with manual coordination; intervals of concentrated attention
• Vision capable of clarity at 20 inches or less and 20 feet or more; sharp focus; ability to judge distance/space; color identification
• Ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force continuously and up to 50 pounds frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects

Working conditions

Operate near moving mechanical parts with exposure to noise, dust, elevated temperatures, heat from equipment, hot water, hot plastic, and heater bands for melting plastic. PPE may include a hair net, safety glasses, earplugs, and gloves.