Lead Injection Molding Process Technician

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Lead Process Technician oversees daily plastics processing operations, ensuring machines run safely, efficiently, and within validated parameters. This role provides technical leadership on the production floor, supports process optimization, troubleshoots equipment issues, and trains junior technicians. The Lead Technician is a key contributor to quality, throughput, and continuous improvement.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Training Serve as the Technical lead for Process Technicians and Material Handlers. Train team members on machine operation, safety, and quality standards. Primary contact for support Process Technicians and Material Handlers for all shifts using Teams or other methods. Vacation Scheduling and coverage. Enforcing Documented Procedures and discipline as required. Coordinate with Process Engineer, Supervisors, Quality, and Maintenance teams to meet production goals. Process Setup & Optimization Set up, start up, and shut down injection molding or blow molding equipment. Establish and adjust processing parameters (temperatures, pressures, speeds, cooling times). Optimize cycle times while maintaining part quality and reducing scrap. Maintain machines running in Green. Perform mold changes, material changes, and machine adjustments. Troubleshooting & Technical Support Diagnose and correct issues such as short shots, flash, burns, splay, warpage, or dimensional defects. Troubleshoot auxiliary equipment (dryers, loaders, chillers, thermolators, robots). Lead root-cause analysis for process deviations and quality issues. Quality & Documentation Ensure processes meet ISO, GMP, or customer-specific requirements. Determine molds that need BOM or Process updates. Support completing Quality requirements for first piece parts at startup or process changes. Continuous Improvement Identify opportunities to reduce scrap, improve efficiency, and enhance product quality. Participate in Lean, Six Sigma, 5S, or Kaizen activities. Recommend equipment upgrades or process improvements. Safety & Compliance Enforce safety protocols related to high-temperature plastics processing. Ensure compliance with OSHA and company safety standards. Conduct safety checks on machines and work areas.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Job-related experience as a Process Technician with injection-molding equipment 3+ years. Injection molding training and Certification (RJG, AIM, Paulson, etc) desired. Forklift certification High School Diploma or equivalent Physically able to bend, squat, twist, climb, reach, and lift 50 pounds without assistance Excellent Communication Skills Strong mathematical skills

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

The role reports to the Process Engineer and takes direction from the Production Coordinator, as well as a communication relationship with Supervisors, Shift Leaders, Operators, Quality Technicians. Employees may be required to perform other duties as assigned

Job Type:

Full-time Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Education:

High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

Plastics Processing:

2 years (Preferred) Ability to

Relocate:

Charlotte, NC 28273: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location:

In person