Process Technician ; Injection Molding, Plastics

Position: Process Technician I (Injection Molding, Plastics)
Location: Northern

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Charlotte, NC, Charlotte, NC, US

2 days ago Requisition

Salary Range: $24.00 To $29.00 Hourly

About Schaefer Plastics 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. Position Summary

The Process Technician I supports the safe and efficient operation of injection molding equipment. This developmental-level role performs standard mold and job changes, machine startups, basic process adjustments, and routine troubleshooting while building proficiency across Schaefer’s machines, molds, robots, and auxiliary systems.

What You’ll Do

• Complete standard mold changes and startups with guidance, following approved setup sheets and procedures.
• Recognize common process and quality problems and make approved adjustments within established parameters.
• Load, reference, and make basic setpoint adjustments to existing robot programs.
• Identify when a problem requires assistance from a higher-level Process Technician, Maintenance, Quality, or supervision.
• Develop working knowledge of resin and regrind requirements, mold versions, hot-stamp setups, and machine-specific safety controls.
• 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.

What Distinguishes Level I

Successful Level I technicians safely complete routine changes and startups, recognize abnormal conditions, make basic approved adjustments, document their work accurately, and ask for support before quality or equipment risks increase.

Qualifications

• One or more years of hands-on manufacturing, mold-setting, machine setup, or related technical experience preferred.
• Injection molding experience or formal plastics/process training is strongly preferred.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools and measuring devices safely.
• Ability to follow setup sheets, work instructions, safety rules, and escalation procedures.
• Basic computer skills and the ability to complete electronic and written production records.
• Willingness and ability to complete Schaefer’s technical training and demonstrate required Level I competencies.

Core Skills

• Mechanical and process troubleshooting
• Safety and quality discipline
• Clear shift-to-shift communication
• Teamwork and knowledge sharing
• Organization, documentation, and follow-through
• Adaptability in a fast-paced…