Set Up Technician

About the role

The Set Up Technician at AFA Dispensing is responsible for mold changes, machine setup, startup, shutdown, and basic process adjustments to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production of injection molded plastic components. This position works closely with production, quality, and maintenance teams to minimize downtime and maximize machine performance.

Responsibilities

• Perform mold changes on injection molding machines according to production schedules.
• Install, connect, and remove molds, water lines, hydraulic lines, electrical connections, and auxiliary equipment.
• Start up and shut down injection molding machines safely and efficiently.
• Set machine parameters according to established process sheets and production requirements.
• Monitor machine performance and make approved process adjustments to maintain part quality and cycle efficiency.
• Troubleshoot molding and processing issues such as short shots, flash, sink marks, burns, and dimensional concerns.
• Verify first-piece quality and ensure production meets customer specifications.
• Perform material changes as needed.
• Ensure all safety procedures, lockout/tagout requirements, and company policies are followed during setup and mold change activities.
• Complete required production, setup, and quality documentation accurately.
• Absorb and communicate with maintenance personnel with troubleshooting machine or tooling issues when required.
• Support continuous improvement efforts focused on reducing setup times, scrap, and downtime.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of injection molding setup experience is preferred.
• Knowledge of plastic injection molding processes, molds, and auxiliary equipment is required.
• Ability to read process sheets, work instructions, and production documentation is essential.
• Understanding of molding defects and corrective actions is necessary.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills are required.
• Ability to safely operate overhead cranes, forklifts, and mold handling is important.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team is crucial.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift, push, pull, and move materials up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, bend, stoop, climb, and work around production equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures and noise levels.