Injection Molding / Extrusion Technician: Process Optimizer

Insight Global; Hastings (MN); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Insight Global is seeking an Injection Molding Operator in Minnesota to set up and run molding machines, perform mold changes, and maintain quality and efficiency across shifts. You will troubleshoot defects, monitor performance, and document metrics while collaborating with production, quality, and maintenance teams.

The role requires hands-on maintenance, forklift operation, and knowledge of plastics processing. Experience with lean manufacturing and GMP practices is preferred.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of injection molding and/or extrusion processing experience.
• Experience with mold setup, mold changes, and machine parameter adjustments.
• Strong understanding of plastics processing and molding parameters (pressure settings, feed rates, etc.).
• Proven troubleshooting ability (machine issues, process issues, quality defects such as flashing).
• Mechanical aptitude with hands-on tool usage (wrenches, gears, lubrication, basic maintenance).
• Ability to read and follow work instructions and production/maintenance documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and documentation skills.
• Relevant technical certifications.
• Experience with auxiliary equipment (grinders, conveyors, material flow systems).
• Preventive maintenance experience.
• Lean manufacturing / continuous improvement exposure.
• Forklift experience.
• Food-safe or CPG manufacturing background.

Responsibilities

• Set up and start injection molding machines and auxiliary equipment
• Perform mold changes and adjust tooling and machine settings
• Troubleshoot machine, process, and product defects
• Monitor cycle times, scrap rates, and overall machine performance
• Optimize processes for efficiency and product quality
• Perform basic and preventive maintenance tasks
• Conduct first-piece inspections and ensure quality standards
• Document production metrics, downtime, and process settings
• Maintain a clean, safe, GMP-compliant workspace
• Work closely with operators, production, quality, and maintenance teams
• Train operators and respond quickly to minimize downtime
• Continuously check machines and adjust settings throughout shifts based on environmental factors and performance

Skills

Injection molding

Mold setup

Troubleshooting

Process adjustment

Documentation

Preventive maintenance

Lean manufacturing

Forklift operation

Food-safe/CPG background

Education

Technical certifications

Tools

Grinders

Conveyors

Material flow systems

Job description

Insight Global is seeking an Injection Molding Operator in Minnesota to set up and run molding machines, perform mold changes, and maintain quality and efficiency across shifts. You will troubleshoot defects, monitor performance, and document metrics while collaborating with production, quality, and maintenance teams.

The role requires hands-on maintenance, forklift operation, and knowledge of plastics processing. Experience with lean manufacturing and GMP practices is preferred.