Process Technician III; Injection Molding Plastics

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Charlotte, NC, Charlotte, NC, US

3 days ago Requisition

Salary Range: $35.00 To $42.00 Hourly

At Schaefer Plastics, we manufacture industry-leading solutions and drive responsible practices towards a sustainable future for generations to come. As a family‑owned company since 1937, we are deeply committed to delivering exceptional customer care through high-quality, innovative waste and packaging solutions. Our customers and their satisfaction are paramount to our business; we strive to understand their needs and exceed their expectations at every turn.

We are a global injection molding manufacturer, producing durable waste and recycling carts, and pioneering reusable packaging systems that reduce carbon footprints. Our dynamic and inclusive culture fosters personal and professional growth, making us an ideal employer for career advancement.

Process Technician III is a senior technical resource responsible for complex injection molding setup, optimization, troubleshooting, and technical leadership. This role mentors other technicians, drives process improvements, and may coordinate technical priorities or cover lead responsibilities when assigned. It is a hands‑on, non‑exempt position and does not replace formal supervisory accountability.

• Lead the diagnosis and correction of complex or recurring issues involving machines, molds, robotics, hot runners, process conditions, materials, and auxiliary systems.
• Establish and optimize robust processing windows using scientific molding principles, machine data, part quality, and cycle‑performance results.
• Create, modify, validate, and document machine and robot programs within authorized change‑control requirements.
• Guide technicians through difficult startups and troubleshooting events while keeping production leadership informed of risk, downtime, and recovery plans.
• Mentor and train Process Technician I and II employees; reinforce standard work and help evaluate practical skills and training needs.
• Partner with Production, Quality, Maintenance, Tooling, Engineering, and Safety on root‑cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Identify and implement improvements that increase output, reduce cycle time and scrap, improve changeover performance, and prevent repeat failures.
• When assigned, help prioritize technician calls, coordinate shift technical coverage, support handoffs, and provide lead coverage without independently administering discipline or other formal supervisory actions.
• Support trials, new mold launches, process validation, documentation updates, and transfer of technical knowledge to production teams.
• Monitor injection molding machines and respond promptly to process‑related issues to reduce downtime and scrap.
• Start up and adjust machines to support safe, efficient production and consistent product quality.
• Perform mold changes, insert changes, version changes, and date‑code verification according to established procedures.
• Set up and operate auxiliary equipment used in the injection molding process.
• Set up, reference, and operate robotic material‑handling equipment appropriate to the assigned level.
• Complete first‑piece verification and required production, mold‑change, and shift documentation accurately.
• Inspect in‑process and finished product; identify defects and take or elevate corrective action.
• Assist Maintenance with troubleshooting and repairs involving machines, molds, heaters, thermocouples, and auxiliary equipment.
• Follow lockout/tagout, crane and sling inspection, machine‑guarding, PPE, and all other safety requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and communicate production or quality concerns during shift handoffs.
• Perform other duties and provide overtime or shift coverage as assigned based on business needs.

Successful Level III technicians are trusted technical leaders who resolve the toughest processing problems, prevent repeat failures, develop other technicians, and improve safety, quality,…