Machine Minder (3rd Shift)

Molding Machine Operator 3rd Shift

The Molding Machine Operator supports daily molding and casting operations by setting up molds, operating molding equipment, and ensuring that all parts meet established quality standards. This role is well suited for individuals with hands-on experience in injection molding, ceramic casting, or similar processes who can perform mold setup, identify and correct common defects, and carry out routine mold and dye maintenance to keep production running smoothly on the 3rd shift.

Responsibilities

Set up molds, dyes, and tooling for injection molding, ceramic casting, or similar molding production lines.

Operate molding machines and related equipment, monitoring cycle times and making basic parameter adjustments as needed.

Identify and troubleshoot common molding issues such as short shots, flashing, incomplete fill, and surface defects.

Perform routine mold and dye maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and minor mechanical adjustments.

Inspect molded parts for dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and overall consistency against production specifications.

Read and follow work instructions, production specifications, and basic technical drawings to ensure correct setup and operation.

Document production runs, mold changes, process adjustments, and any issues encountered during the shift.

Communicate equipment problems, material concerns, or quality issues to supervisors or maintenance teams promptly.

Support changeovers between molds or products to minimize downtime and maintain production efficiency.

Work safely in a fast-paced production environment and follow all established safety procedures and guidelines.

Essential Skills

Experience in injection molding, ceramic casting, blow molding, extrusion, or similar molding processes.

Proficiency in machine operation on molding machines, production lines, and related manufacturing equipment.

Familiarity with mold setup, alignment, clamping procedures, and changeover activities.

Ability to recognize, diagnose, and troubleshoot molding defects such as short shots, flashing, incomplete fill, and surface imperfections.

Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort performing minor mold and dye maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication.

Ability to read and interpret work instructions, production specifications, and basic technical drawings.

Strong attention to detail and a consistent focus on producing high-quality parts.

Ability to lift 3050 pounds and remain productive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Comfort working with polymer molding processes and hydraulic or pneumatic equipment.

Willingness and ability to work 3rd shift hours.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

Experience with plastic molding, blow mold machines, and injection mold equipment.

In extrusion, molding, and general machine operating in a production setting.

Demonstrated ability to perform efficient changeovers between different molds or product runs.

Strong communication skills to effectively coordinate with supervisors, maintenance, and team members.

Commitment to safety, consistency, and continuous improvement in a manufacturing environment.

Why Work Here?

The company manufactures high-performance polymer and porcelain insulators that support critical electrical transmission and distribution infrastructure across the country. The Virginia Beach facility specializes in advanced molding, assembly, and precision crimping processes, combining materials engineering expertise with strict quality and testing standards. Team members work in a structured, safety-focused environment that values consistency, reliability, and continuous improvement. Employees benefit from a stable, full-time schedule, opportunities for overtime based on production demand, and the chance to contribute to durable, reliable products that play a vital role in utility systems nationwide.

Work Environment

This is a 3rd shift position with hours from 11:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m., Monday through Friday. The role is based in a nonclimate-controlled production facility where temperatures can become very hot during the summer months. The environment is fast-paced and hands-on, with polymer molding and hydraulic/pneumatic crimping equipment in regular use. Employees work in a structured, team-oriented setting with defined workstations and established safety procedures. Team members are allowed to keep water at their workstation to stay hydrated throughout the shift. The schedule is consistent and full-time, with opportunities for overtime depending on production needs.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Virginia Beach, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $19.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Virginia Beach, VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 22, 2026.

Aerotek