Mold Processor

Job Summary

The Molding Processor is responsible for setting up, starting, troubleshooting, and optimizing injection molding machines to ensure safe, efficient, and consistent production. This role owns the processing performance of assigned equipment while supporting production by minimizing downtime, improving cycle efficiency, and maintaining product quality.

Responsibilities

• Perform machine startups, restarts, and processing adjustments.
• Set and verify processing parameters including temperature, pressure, speed, cooling time, and cycle settings.
• Ensure molds operate within approved processing standards.
• Support mold changes and validate successful startups following changeovers.
• Monitor machine performance and optimize processes to maintain efficiency and product quality.
• Reduce scrap and improve cycle times whenever possible.
• Identify and correct process variation.
• Maintain consistent processing standards across all shifts.
• Diagnose and resolve molding defects including short shots, flash, splay, burns, sink, warpage, and dimensional issues.
• Respond quickly to machine alarms and production interruptions.
• Collaborate with Maintenance and Tooling to resolve machine or mold-related issues.
• Support operators and production personnel to maximize machine uptime.
• Ensure machines are properly supplied with resin, colorant, and required materials.
• Communicate machine status, priorities, and production concerns with Production Supervisors.
• Follow established process sheets and work instructions.
• Document process changes and machine adjustments as required.
• Support downtime tracking and root cause analysis.
• Maintain accurate startup, adjustment, and production records.
• Identify opportunities to improve productivity, reduce waste, and stabilize manufacturing processes.
• Participate in Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Aid in training Set-Up Associates, Operators, and new Processors on standard processes and best practices.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area following 5S standards.
• Ensure materials and finished products are properly stored.
• Follow all company safety policies and immediately report unsafe conditions.
• Support ISO, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED, or equivalent experience.
• 2–5 years of injection molding processing experience.
• Strong knowledge of injection molding processes, materials, and machine operation.
• Ability to troubleshoot molding defects and machine performance issues.
• Ability to read and interpret process sheets, work instructions, and production documentation.
• Preferred: Experience with multi-cavity molds, experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment, knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement principles.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Mechanical aptitude.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Frequently lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to bend, reach, twist, push, pull, and grasp throughout the workday.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with heat, noise, and moving equipment.
• Ability to work overtime, weekends, and assigned shifts as business needs require.