Soft Trim and Plastics Process Optimization Technician

Do these questions describe you?

Do you thrive on dialing in injection molding parameters until quality and cycle time lock into control?

Can you spot a root cause fast—material, mold, machine, method—and drive corrective and preventive actions?

Are you comfortable switching from a mold change to a lamination tweak to a quick filter swap, all before first-article approval?

Do you enjoy coaching operators and elevating line performance with data-driven improvements?

What you’ll doSet up, start, and adjust injection molding and soft trim processes for automotive interior parts.

Define, monitor, and maintain parameters for consistent part quality and efficient cycles.

Troubleshoot process, material, and equipment issues to reduce scrap and downtime.

Perform mold changes, machine setups, and tooling adjustments to stabilize production.

Own floor-level efficiency tracking and reporting (scrap, cycle, downtime, throughput).Complete routine maintenance (lubrication, filter changes), minor repairs, and general equipment/tooling upkeep.

Handle basic mechanical repairs and handyman-type tasks to keep production moving.

Analyze production data to pinpoint improvement opportunities.

Resolve quality defects with root cause analysis; implement CAPAs with Quality, including disposition of nonconforming parts.

Support first-article inspections, in-process checks, and process capability studies.

Partner with Maintenance to improve equipment reliability.

Ensure compliance with automotive standards (IATF 16949, ISO 9001).Author and update setup sheets, work instructions, and parameter controls.

Support launches, process validation, and PPAP/APQP activities during plant startup and ramp-up.

Train and mentor operators on process control, setup, inspection, and troubleshooting; provide hands-on coaching at the machine.

Identify operator skill gaps and deliver refresher training when needed.

Document process changes, trials, and performance trends.

Follow safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized workspace.

Must-haves

High school diploma or GED.
3+ years in injection molding and/or automotive soft trim manufacturing.

Hands-on experience with process setup, troubleshooting, and optimization.

Willingness to work required shifts and overtime with reliable attendance.

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a manufacturing environment.

Skills that set you apart

Expertise in plastics processing and soft trim techniques (lamination, edge folding).Ability to set and adjust parameters on molding equipment.

Strong mechanical/hydraulic/pneumatic troubleshooting and basic electrical know‑how.

Mechanical aptitude for minor repairs, component replacements, and general equipment/facility upkeep.

Process control and data analysis fluency (scrap, cycle time, efficiency).Working knowledge of IATF 16949, PPAP, APQP; use of 8D, 5‑Why, fishbone/Ishikawa.

Read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documents.

Clear, patient trainer and coach with strong communication skills.

Detail-focused, safety- and quality-minded; collaborative and self-directed.

Physical demands

Regular standing, walking, stooping, crouching, bending or kneeling, close eye work, reaching, pulling or pushing.

Good hand dexterity, hearing, and vision are essential.

Lift up to 50 lbs; wear required personal protective equipment.
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