Production

Injection Molding Technician job description

An Injection Molding Technician sets up, maintains, and troubleshoots thermoplastic machines. Learn how this role optimizes production for plastic components.

Published February 14, 2025Updated May 17, 20264411 likes

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Job brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented Injection Molding Technician to join our high-volume manufacturing team and drive operational excellence. You will take ownership of machine optimization, troubleshooting complex molding processes, and training junior operators on technical best practices. If you are passionate about precision engineering, lean manufacturing principles, and maintaining world-class production standards, we want to hear from you. Join us to help shape the future of our plastic component production line in a safety-focused environment.

Key highlights

Execute complex mold changeovers and machine setups, including connecting water lines, hydraulics, and electrical interfaces per standard work instructions.
Optimize injection molding process parameters such as injection speed, hold pressure, and clamp tonnage to minimize scrap rates and cycle times.
Perform first-article inspections using precision measurement tools like calipers, micrometers, and optical comparators to ensure parts meet blueprint specifications.
Partner with quality engineering teams to conduct root cause analysis (RCA) on recurring production defects and implement permanent corrective actions.

What is a Injection Molding Technician?

An Injection Molding Technician is a specialized manufacturing professional responsible for the end-to-end operation, setup, and maintenance of high-tonnage injection molding machines. By managing parameter settings, material temperatures, and cooling times, an Injection Molding Technician ensures that plastic parts meet rigorous dimensional and aesthetic specifications. Their expertise in polymer science and process optimization directly dictates the efficiency and quality output of the production floor.

What does a Injection Molding Technician do?

An Injection Molding Technician performs daily machine startups, executes complex mold changes, and fine-tunes processing parameters on equipment like Arburg, Husky, or Milacron presses. They conduct real-time troubleshooting for defects such as flash, short shots, or sink marks by analyzing cycle times and pressure profiles. Collaborating with quality assurance teams, they perform first-article inspections and document process changes within the ERP system to maintain strict ISO 9001 compliance and production consistency.

Key responsibilities

Execute complex mold changeovers and machine setups, including connecting water lines, hydraulics, and electrical interfaces per standard work instructions.
Optimize injection molding process parameters such as injection speed, hold pressure, and clamp tonnage to minimize scrap rates and cycle times.
Troubleshoot mechanical and process-related issues on injection molding machines, performing minor repairs or escalating to maintenance teams when necessary.
Perform first-article inspections using precision measurement tools like calipers, micrometers, and optical comparators to ensure parts meet blueprint specifications.
Monitor real-time production performance data, recording downtime and material usage within our ERP system to support accurate inventory management.
Train production staff and operators on machine safety protocols, proper handling of molds, and efficient material loading techniques.
Partner with quality engineering teams to conduct root cause analysis (RCA) on recurring production defects and implement permanent corrective actions.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace compliant with OSHA standards and internal 5S initiatives across the production floor.

Requirements and skills

Minimum 3+ years of hands-on experience as an Injection Molding Technician working with thermoplastic materials and high-tonnage equipment.
Proficiency in reading and interpreting technical engineering drawings, GD&T specifications, and quality control documentation.
Advanced understanding of polymer properties, including material drying requirements, melt temperatures, and viscosity characteristics.
Proven ability to operate and program controllers on major injection molding machine brands such as Husky, Fanuc, or Engel.
Strong technical expertise in Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, or SMED (Single-Minute Exchange of Die) methodologies to reduce changeover times.
Certification in Plastic Injection Molding (such as RJG Master Molder I or II) is highly preferred and strongly considered.
Ability to communicate complex technical adjustments and safety hazards clearly to diverse teams of operators, engineers, and plant management.
Working knowledge of ERP or MES software platforms for tracking production output, work orders, and raw material inventory levels.

FAQs

What does an Injection Molding Technician do?

An Injection Molding Technician is responsible for the setup, operation, and maintenance of machines that create plastic parts through the injection molding process. They adjust machine parameters to ensure high-quality output, perform mold changes, and troubleshoot common defects like short shots or warping. Their primary goal is to maintain efficient production cycles while ensuring that all parts meet strict engineering tolerances.

What skills are required for an Injection Molding Technician?

Key skills include a deep understanding of thermoplastic materials, proficiency in operating industrial molding presses, and the ability to use metrology tools like calipers and micrometers. An Injection Molding Technician must also be skilled in root cause analysis, lean manufacturing principles, and technical problem-solving. Additionally, familiarity with OSHA safety standards and ERP software for inventory tracking is essential for success in this role.

Who does an Injection Molding Technician work with?

They work in a collaborative production environment alongside machine operators, quality assurance inspectors, and maintenance technicians. An Injection Molding Technician also coordinates with production managers to meet daily targets and regularly consults with manufacturing engineers regarding process improvements or mold design adjustments. This role acts as a critical link between technical maintenance and front-line production teams.

Why is an Injection Molding Technician important to a company?

An Injection Molding Technician is vital because they minimize costly downtime and reduce raw material waste through precise process control. By ensuring that machines operate at peak efficiency and that products meet quality standards, they protect the company’s profit margins and brand reputation. Their technical ability to resolve molding issues quickly directly affects the company's ability to fulfill customer orders on time.