Plastic Injection Molding Set - Up & Process Tech

Position: Plastic Injection Molding Set - Up & Process Tech - IN
Plastic Injection Molding Set-Up & Process Technician2nd (2:30pm - 11:00pm) & 3rd Shift (10:00pm - 6:30am)
Position Summary The Plastic Injection Molding Set-Up Technician is responsible for the safe and efficient setup, operation, troubleshooting, and optimization of injection molding machines to produce high-quality plastic components that meet customer specifications. This position plays a key role in maintaining production efficiency, minimizing downtime, and ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards. The ideal candidate has strong mechanical aptitude, experience with mold changes and process adjustments, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Essential Responsibilities Follow all company safety policies and maintain a clean, organized work environment.

Set up and prepare injection molding machines for production, including mold installation, startup, and process verification.

Program and adjust molding machine parameters to achieve optimal cycle times and product quality.

Perform mold changes, machine startups, and production changeovers with minimal downtime.

Monitor machine performance throughout production and make process adjustments as needed to maintain quality standards.

Troubleshoot machine, tooling, and process issues to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.

Operate injection molding equipment safely and efficiently while meeting production schedules.

Inspect molded parts using measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, tape measures, and other precision tools.

Perform first-piece inspections and complete all required quality documentation.

Read and interpret blueprints, work instructions, job travelers, and process documentation.

Dry, prepare, and maintain engineering-grade materials including nylon, acetal, and other thermoplastic resins according to manufacturer specifications.

Monitor and maintain proper material moisture content using drying equipment.

Blend virgin and regrind materials in accordance with established procedures to ensure product consistency.

Identify and correct molding defects including flash, short shots, sink marks, warpage, burns, and dimensional issues.

Perform basic preventative maintenance on molding machines, molds, and auxiliary equipment.

Assist with mold cleaning, preventive maintenance, and minor tooling repairs as needed.

Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, productivity, scrap reduction, and cycle time improvements.

Crosstrain and assist production operators as required.

Maintain accurate production, quality, and maintenance records.

Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications Required High  school diploma or GED required.

Minimum of 2 years of plastic injection molding setup experience preferred.

Experience with mold installation, machine setup, and process troubleshooting.

Ability to read blueprints, process sheets, and work instructions.

Working knowledge of engineering resins such as nylon, acetal, polypropylene, ABS, polyethylene, and similar materials.

Experience using precision measuring equipment including calipers, micrometers, and gauges.

Basic computer skills for production reporting and quality documentation.

Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.

Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Demonstrated reliability, dependability, and strong attendance.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with scientific molding principles.

Forklift and overhead crane experience.

Experience with robotic part removal systems and auxiliary equipment.

Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement experience.

Preventive maintenance experience on molds and molding equipment.

Physical Requirements Frequently stand and walk for extended periods.

Frequently bend, stoop, kneel, and reach.

Lift and move up to 50 pounds occasionally.

Work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures, moving machinery, and moderate noise levels.

Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
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