Molding - Machine Operator (C Shift, 7pm - 7am)

About the role

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor and Process Technician, the Machine Operator is responsible for safety, quality, and attainment of production for an assigned group of machines during the shift. The operator must proactively request support from the Process Technician or Shift Supervisor to ensure a successful shift.

Responsibilities

• Restart injection molding machines using pre-set parameters and shut down machines for scheduled downtime.
• Respond to machine alarms; escalate to the Process Technician within 15 minutes if troubleshooting is unsuccessful.
• Perform basic troubleshooting of defective parts and adjust the process as needed.
• Follow lockout/tagout procedures whenever maintenance work is required on the machine.
• Ensure the machine operates according to the master set-up sheet.
• Perform basic swing chute operations and report any cycle deviations to the supervisor or process technician.
• Clean production molds following the cleaning schedule and clean stacking equipment as per the checklist.
• Maintain cleanliness of the machine, platforms, and surrounding areas by removing oil, parts, and dirt.
• Perform basic stacker maintenance and assist in troubleshooting for maintenance.
• Clean and troubleshoot swing and companion chutes.
• Remove drool from the machine every 3 hours or as needed.
• Record machine process parameters, deviations, and downtime in the set-up sheet and line inspection forms.
• Complete mold run data sheets, stacker/mold checklists, and metal contamination/PPMS/mold cleaning sheets.
• Perform data entry in the Mattec unit and complete outstanding training documents.
• Perform color changes within 15–20 minutes using the liquid color unit.
• Conduct resin/material changes, including mixing blended resin.
• Perform line clearance during product changes.
• Conduct front-line quality checks on parts immediately after production.
• Achieve shift attainment and escalate issues that impede production goals.
• Communicate quality issues and relevant information to the next operator to ensure shift success.
• Comply with plant safety and SQF policies, using appropriate PPE while performing duties.
• Identify product at risk and escalate to the Shift Supervisor.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects and drool/purge reduction initiatives.
• Escalate process changes to the Process Technician.

Requirements

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• At least six months of experience in an injection molding environment.
• Certificate from plastics training facilities preferred.
• Fluent in English with strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills; knowledge of hydraulics preferred.
• Ability to stand for long periods and reach above shoulder height and below the waistline.

Skills

• Ability to anticipate and handle challenging situations effectively, seeking input and involving others when possible.
• Effectively troubleshoot and resolve basic injection molding machine issues impacting quality or safety.
• Use good judgment in decision-making, analyzing problems from multiple angles to determine the best solutions.
• Demonstrate a strong sense of urgency, taking responsibility without being asked to achieve results.
• Strictly follow all lockout/tagout and safety procedures.