Molding - Set Up Technician 3rd Shift

PTA Plastics; Longmont (CO); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading plastics manufacturer in Longmont, Colorado is seeking a Set Up Technician for the 3rd Shift. This role involves setting up, adjusting, and maintaining injection molding machines to ensure production efficiency. Ideal candidates should have a high school diploma, relevant technical training, and proven experience in a similar role. This position requires strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail as well as the ability to adhere to safety protocols in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Set-Up Technician in a plastic injection molding environment.
• In-depth knowledge of plastic injection molding machines and molds.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.

Responsibilities

• Set up and maintain plastic injection molding machines.
• Identify and resolve technical issues on equipment.
• Collaborate with production personnel to optimize processes.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical certification or vocational training in plastics manufacturing

Tools

Plastic injection molding machines

Job description

Posted Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 5:00 AM

Company Overview

Are you a forward-thinking leader passionate about optimizing supply chain operations? PTA Plastics, an employee-owned and innovative leader in the plastic injection molding, contract manufacturing and tool-building industry, is looking for a Set Up Technician- 3rd Shift (10:30 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) to join our dynamic team.

At PTA Plastics, we’re more than just a manufacturer; we partner with Fortune 500 OEMs in the medical device, defense, homeland security, and technology sectors, constantly pushing the boundaries of product development and manufacturing excellence. As an employee-owned company, every team member has a stake in our success, creating a collaborative and entrepreneurial environment where innovation thrives.

Job Summary

The Set Up Technician- 2nd Shift (10:30 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) will be responsible for ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of our plastic injection molding machines. You will be responsible for setting up, adjusting, and maintaining the equipment to meet production requirements in our low volume, high mix environment.

Equipment Set-Up and Adjustment

• Prepare and set up plastic injection molding machines according to production specifications and requirements.
• Perform mold changes, including installation, alignment, and connection of molds and auxiliary equipment.
• Conduct trials and test runs to ensure proper functioning of the machines and molds.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

• Identify and resolve technical issues related to equipment, molds, and processes promptly.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks on machines and molds, including cleaning, lubrication, and inspection.
• Collaborate with maintenance personnel to address complex machinery repairs and ensure minimal downtime.
• Maintain accurate records of machine settings, adjustments, and maintenance activities.

Process Optimization and Quality Assurance

• Work closely with production personnel and engineers to optimize processes, reduce cycle times, and improve product quality.
• Monitor and inspect produced parts to ensure adherence to quality standards and specifications.
• Work with the Process Engineer to make necessary adjustments to machine settings and processes to correct any deviations or defects such as cracks, splay, sink, drag lines, blemishes, color variations, etc.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and provide suggestions for enhancing operational efficiency and product quality.

Safety and Compliance

• Adhere to all safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a safe working environment.
• Comply with company policies, procedures, and regulations related to machine operation, maintenance, and safety.
• Report any safety concerns or incidents to the appropriate personnel promptly.

Job Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or vocational training in plastics manufacturing or related field is a plus.
• Proven experience as a Set-Up Technician or similar role in a plastic injection molding environment.
• In-depth knowledge of plastic injection molding machines, molds, and associated equipment.
• Proficiency in machine set-up, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and technical skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Attention to detail and precision in executing tasks.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to understand and follow English work instructions, both verbal and written.
• Willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and move around the production floor for extended periods.
• Capable of lifting and carrying heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for handling small tools, machine components, and molds.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Comfortable wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection.
• Occasional bending, kneeling, and reaching to access equipment and perform maintenance tasks.
• Good vision and color perception for inspecting parts and identifying any defects or abnormalities.
• Ability to work in temperature-controlled environments and withstand exposure to noise levels associated with manufacturing machinery.
• Ability to receive, comprehend and utilize required training from OSHA and Company including but not limited to the following:
• First Aid and CPR (optional)

ITAR Requirements

To conform to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), applicants for employment at PTA Plastics must be a U.S. citizen or national, lawfully admitted for permanent residence into the U.S. (i.e., current green card holder), or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1157-1158.

Equal Employment Opportunity & ADA Compliance Statement

PTA Plastics is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, including those with disabilities. As part of this commitment, PTA Plastics complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Connecticut’s Fair Employment Practices Act (CFEPA), which prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities in hiring, job assignments, promotions, compensation, benefits, training, and other aspects of employment.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process or to perform the essential functions of this position, please contact [e-mail]. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable laws to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job duties.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Employees may be required to perform other duties as assigned.