Mold Setter I — Grow Your Career in Plastics

Alpla Inc.; Florence (KY); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) with company match

Paid vacation and holidays

Life, short-term and long-term-disabil

Tuition reimbursement

Hands-on training and development

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

ALPLA in Florence, KY is seeking a molding technician to support mold changes, machine setup, and startup activities for production runs. You will troubleshoot defects, adjust settings, and ensure product quality while following safety standards and process documentation.

The role requires 2+ years operating molding machines, knowledge of plastics, and ability to read process sheets. A technical certification and lean/automation exposure are a plus; growth opportunities are available within an

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years of experience operating molding machines.
• Understanding of plastics materials (HDPE, PP, PET, etc.).
• Ability to read process sheets and technical drawings.
• Experience with tooling setup, parison control, and troubleshooting minor defects.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Mold Change Execution and Startup Support, including removal/installation of molds, heads, and tooling.
• Set up machines for production runs and program parison, temperature, and process parameters.
• Conduct startup and verify product quality to meet specs.
• Troubleshoot molding, machine, and tooling issues to minimize downtime and scrap.
• Adjust machine settings to optimize cycle time, quality and efficiency.
• Perform preventive maintenance on molds, machines, and auxiliary equipment.
• Inspect molds and tooling for wear or damage and coordinate repairs.
• Ensure proper alignment and operation of molds with cooling and clamping.
• Document setup parameters and production data.
• Follow setup sheets, process docs, and production schedules.
• Maintain 5S standards in the work area.
• Support downtime reduction and other duties as assigned.
• Comply with ALPLA safety standards (LOTO, PPE, safe mold handling).
• Collaborate with Mold Setter II, Technicians, Maintenance and Production teams; train operators as needed.

Skills

Molding machine operation

Process sheet interpretation

Mechanical troubleshooting

Plastics materials knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical certification in plastics processing

Tools

Automation systems

Robotics experience

Job description

ALPLA in Florence, KY is seeking a molding technician to support mold changes, machine setup, and startup activities for production runs. You will troubleshoot defects, adjust settings, and ensure product quality while following safety standards and process documentation.

The role requires 2+ years operating molding machines, knowledge of plastics, and ability to read process sheets. A technical certification and lean/automation exposure are a plus; growth opportunities are available within an