Quality Associate

About the role

The Mold Lab Technician is responsible for operating injection molding equipment and laboratory testing instruments to produce molded test specimens and perform physical property testing. Working within an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory, this position follows documented procedures to generate accurate, reliable, and traceable test data while supporting quality, safety, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Produce molded test specimens using injection molding machines.
• Perform a diverse range of physical and thermal testing in accordance with ASTM, ISO, and internal laboratory procedures, such as tensile, flexural, impact, DSC, and density.
• Operate computer-controlled laboratory instruments and maintain complete, accurate test records and equipment verification documentation.
• Verify specimen identification and maintain sample traceability throughout testing.
• Perform routine equipment verification, preventive maintenance, and calibration checks per laboratory procedures.
• Communicate test results, nonconforming work, equipment issues, and testing status to appropriate personnel in a timely manner.
• Participate in proficiency testing, round robins, Gage R&R studies, laboratory investigations, GEMBA walks, and continuous improvement activities.
• Follow all safety guidelines and Stop the Job if any unsafe behavior or working conditions are observed.
• Maintain technical competency through required training and periodic competency assessments.
• Produce molded test specimens that meet applicable ASTM, ISO, and internal laboratory requirements.
• Generate accurate, repeatable, and traceable test data while following approved laboratory procedures.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and work areas in a safe, organized, and audit-ready condition.

Requirements

• A two-year associate degree (science field) or equivalent experience is required.
• Knowledge of Six Sigma practices, yellow belt or higher certification is desired.
• Experience with plastics processing, injection molding, or laboratory testing is preferred.

Skills

• Strong written, verbal, organizational, and documentation skills.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to safely operate, inspect, and perform basic troubleshooting of laboratory testing and injection molding equipment.
• Ability to learn and effectively use SampleManager Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).
• Ability to be safety-conscious and work as a team player with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrates initiative, effective time management, accountability, attention to detail, and commitment to data integrity.

Schedule

• The Foley Quality Mold Lab Technician position is based on an 8-hour shift, covering weekends and holidays as needed.
• Overtime is available during high sample volume times as the need arises.