Machine Set Up Technician - Plastics 1st shift

Le Sueur Incorporated; Le Sueur (MN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Le Sueur Incorporated is seeking an Injection Molding Machine Setup Technician for a first shift (Mon-Thu 5am–3:30pm) with overtime opportunities on Fridays or Saturdays as scheduled. You will set up, start, and monitor plastic injection molding machines and related equipment to ensure quality parts produced safely and efficiently.

You will configure machines, load molds, verify materials, perform quality checks, and maintain records while following safety procedures and work instructions.

Qualifications

• Experience with plastic injection molding equipment.
• Ability to set up machines and molds.
• Knowledge of plastics materials and machine controls.
• Ability to read work Instructions, blueprints, and use basic measurement tools.
• Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills.

Responsibilities

• Set up and prepare injection molding machines for production.
• Install and remove molds with proper alignment and securing.
• Connect and set up water, hydraulic, electrical, and auxiliary systems.
• Set machine parameters: temperature, pressure, speed, cycle times.
• Start machines and perform first-piece inspections for quality.

Skills

Injection molding

Machine setup

Blueprint reading

Measurement tools

Troubleshooting

Job description

This is a 1st shift position. Mon-Thur 5am - 3:30pm with OT Friday and/or Saturday as scheduled.

The Position:

The Injection Molding Machine Setup Technician is responsible for setting up, starting, and monitoring plastic injection molding machines and related equipment. This position ensures machines are properly configured to produce quality parts safely, efficiently, and according to production specifications.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and prepare injection molding machines for production runs.
• Install and remove molds, including proper alignment and securing of molds.
• Connect and set up water, hydraulic, electrical, and auxiliary systems as required.
• Set machine parameters including temperature, pressure, speed, injection time, cooling time, and cycle time.
• Start machines and perform first-piece inspections to verify product quality.
• Make process adjustments to maintain consistent part quality and production efficiency.
• Troubleshoot molding problems such as short shots, flash, warping, sink marks, burns, and dimensional issues.
• Set up and operate auxiliary equipment such as dryers, temperature controllers, grinders, robots, and material loaders.
• Verify proper material, color, and resin before starting production.
• Perform routine machine and mold checks and report equipment problems.
• Maintain accurate production, quality, and setup records.
• Follow all company safety procedures, quality standards, and work instructions.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Assist with mold changes, preventative maintenance, and continuous improvement activities.

Qualifications

• Previous experience with plastic injection molding equipment preferred.
• Experience setting up injection molding machines and molds.
• Knowledge of plastic materials, molding processes, and machine controls.
• Ability to read work instructions, blueprints, and basic measurement tools.
• Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a production team.
• Ability to lift and handle materials and perform physical production tasks safely.
• Willingness to work overtime, weekends, or rotating shifts as required.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with hydraulic and electric injection molding machines.
• Knowledge of scientific molding/process optimization.
• Experience with robots and automated molding systems.
• Familiarity with SPC, quality inspection, and lean manufacturing practices.
• Ability to use calipers, micrometers, and other inspection equipment.

Functional Requirements

• Manually lift and move product and materials up to 55 lbs. through regular physical exertion, including but not limited to reach forward, reach overhead, lift, carry, crouch and bend.
• Power grip and wrist turn, including the use of hand tools and/or steering for truck.
• Walk, sit or stand for up to 12 hours with intermittent breaks.
• Push / pull 100lbs.
• See, inspect, and evaluate product quality
• Read and understand written work instructions in English
• Work in a non-climate controlled environment, including hot and humid conditions.
• Walk up and down steps
• Climb ladders and stairs of varying height
• Wear task-based Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Protective Footwear;
  • Hearing Protection
  • Protective Eyewear
  • Gloves
  • Additional PPE may as required by specific tasks