2nd shift Injection molding supervisor/set-up Technician

American Metal & Plastics; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

American Metal & Plastics is seeking a 2nd shift Injection Molding Supervisor / Set-Up Technician to oversee daily molding operations, set up machines, and ensure quality and safety. You will supervise operators, optimize processes, conduct first-piece checks, and coordinate with maintenance and quality teams to meet production targets in a fast-paced plastics environment.

Strong leadership, problem-solving, and familiarity with ERP systems are required to drive continuous improvement and

Qualifications

• 3+ years of injection molding setup and processing experience.
• 1+ years of supervisory or team leadership experience preferred.
• Technical certification in Plastics Processing or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Set up and process molding machines, adjust parameters.
• Supervise molding operators and coordinate daily activities.
• Ensure product quality and participate in continuous improvement.

Skills

Injection molding

Supervisory experience

Troubleshooting

Reading blueprints

ERP software

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Technical certification in Plastics Processing, Manufacturing Technology, or related field

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauges

Job description

Job Description

2nd shift Injection Molding Supervisor / Set-Up Technician

Position Summary

The Injection Molding Supervisor / Set-Up Technician is responsible for overseeing daily injection molding operations, setting up and processing molding machines, troubleshooting production issues, ensuring product quality, and supervising production personnel. This position plays a key role in maintaining safety, efficiency, quality, and meeting production goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Injection Mold Set-Up and Processing

• Perform mold changes, machine start-ups, and process adjustments.
• Install and remove molds using proper safety procedures.
• Set machine parameters including temperature, pressure, cycle times, and injection speeds.
• Optimize processing conditions to maximize production efficiency and part quality.
• Troubleshoot molding defects such as flash, short shots, sink marks, warpage, burns, and dimensional issues.
• Maintain documentation of machine settings and process parameters.

Production Supervision

• Supervise and coordinate daily activities of molding operators and support personnel.
• Assign work schedules and production priorities.
• Monitor productivity and ensure production targets are met.
• Train employees on machine operation, quality standards, safety procedures, and work instructions.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching when necessary.

Quality Assurance

• Ensure products meet customer specifications and quality requirements.
• Perform first-piece inspections and process verification checks.
• Work closely with Quality personnel to resolve non-conformance issues.
• Implement corrective actions to prevent recurring defects.

Equipment Maintenance

• Perform routine preventive maintenance on molding machines, molds, robots, material handling systems, and auxiliary equipment.
• Identify maintenance needs and coordinate repairs with maintenance personnel.
• Ensure equipment is maintained in safe operating condition.

Safety and Compliance

• Enforce company safety policies and OSHA regulations.
• Conduct safety inspections and promote a safe working environment.
• Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain housekeeping standards throughout the production area.

Continuous Improvement

• Participate in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement initiatives.
• Reduce scrap, downtime, and cycle times.
• Recommend process improvements to increase efficiency and quality.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Technical certification in Plastics Processing, Manufacturing Technology, or related field preferred.

Experience

• 3+ years of injection molding setup and processing experience.
• 1+ years of supervisory or team leadership experience preferred.
• Experience with scientific molding techniques is a plus.
• Experience with hot runner systems, automation, and robotics preferred.

Skills and Knowledge

• Strong understanding of injection molding machines, molds, materials, and processing.
• Ability to read blueprints, work instructions, and quality specifications.
• Knowledge of plastics materials including ABS, Nylon, Polypropylene, Polycarbonate, and engineered resins.
• Familiarity with quality measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Effective leadership and communication abilities.
• Basic computer skills including ERP and manufacturing software systems.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach throughout the workday.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, noise, and moving machinery.

Performance Metrics

• Production efficiency and machine uptime.
• Scrap and reject rates.
• On-time production performance.
• Safety compliance.
• Employee training and productivity.
• Quality and customer satisfaction metrics.

Typical Pay Range (U.S.):