Injection Molding Technician

Job Description

The Injection Molding Technician is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining injection molding machines and auxiliary equipment to produce high-quality plastic parts. This role ensures that all production runs meet established safety, quality, and efficiency standards, while supporting continuous improvement initiatives within the manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Machine Setup & Operation
• Set up, start, adjust, and shut down injection molding machines according to production schedules.
• Install and remove molds, tooling, and fixtures safely and efficiently.
• Program or adjust machine controls, process parameters, and auxiliary equipment as needed.
• Quality Control
• Monitor production for defects and perform in-process inspections to verify part dimensions and quality.
• Troubleshoot issues related to molding process, equipment, or material flow.
• Work with Quality Assurance to ensure products meet customer and regulatory requirements.
• Maintenance & Troubleshooting
• Perform routine preventive maintenance on molding machines, molds, and related equipment.
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical, hydraulic, and process problems.
• Ensure all machines and work areas are clean, safe, and in proper working order.
• Documentation & Reporting
• Maintain accurate production and process records.
• Complete shift reports, downtime logs, and quality documentation.
• Assist with root cause analysis and corrective actions when quality or efficiency issues arise.
• Teamwork & Safety
• Collaborate with engineers, supervisors, and other technicians to optimize processes and improve productivity.
• Train and mentor junior operators or technicians as required.
• Follow all safety policies and procedures, including lockout/tagout and PPE requirements.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certification or associate degree preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in plastic injection molding operations (set-up, processing, or troubleshooting).
• Strong knowledge of injection molding machines (electric/hydraulic) and auxiliary equipment (dryers, loaders, chillers, etc.).
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, process sheets, and quality standards.
• Mechanical aptitude with good problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement practices a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs. for extended periods.
• Work in a manufacturing environment with moderate noise, heat, and moving equipment.
• Flexibility to work overtime or off-shift hours as needed.

Typical Job Titles

• Injection Molding Technician
• Process Technician
• Molding Machine Operator (advanced level)