Molding Technician - Shift 2

Summit Polymers, Inc.; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in automotive interior systems is seeking a Mold Technician for their Kalamazoo facility. In this hands-on role, you will be responsible for setting up and operating molding machines, ensuring quality standards are met, and performing routine inspections. The ideal candidate will thrive in a culture of continuous improvement and teamwork, contributing to the production of high-quality automotive components. This position offers a unique opportunity to grow within a supportive environment where your skills will be valued and developed. Join a team that is committed to excellence and innovation in the automotive industry.

Qualifications

• Must complete post-hire training modules within specified time frame.
• Must be physically capable of standing and lifting 60 pounds repeatedly.

Responsibilities

• Safely perform injection mold changes and machine start-ups.
• Troubleshoot basic machine and equipment problems.
• Assist supervisor in managing shift activities and training.

Skills

Injection Molding

Basic Troubleshooting

Lean Manufacturing Principles

Mechanical Reasoning

Visual Acuity

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Tools

Molding Machines

Cranes

Hot Runner Controllers

Job description

P18 - Pavilion, 5858 E N Ave, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States of America Req #1166

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Summit Polymers is a leading Tier 1 Automotive Supplier of automotive interior systems. As a world-class automotive supplier of injection molded interior trim, we specialize in the engineering, manufacturing, and assembly of feature-based registers, consoles, and trim panels.

JOIN A TEAM WHERE YOU’LL BE CHALLENGED AND VALUED.

A career with Summit Polymers means working with smart people in a culture that thrives on challenging, meaningful work. At Summit, we look for growth potential with every hire. We don’t just fill seats, we set people on career paths. We’re always on the lookout for smart people who are committed to continuous improvement, customer service, and quality.

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: Mold Technician 1 - 2nd Shift FLSA STATUS: Non Exempt

REPORTS TO: Supervisor, Manufacturing (Molding)

SUMMARY

This is a hands-on technical position responsible for molding machine setups, start-ups, operation, and shut-downs. Must follow all standard work procedures including daily use of Summit Lean Manufacturing System tools. Completes process verifications, performs 1st piece/last piece inspections, and performs routine quality checks. Responsible for ensuring that machines, molds, and equipment are properly functioning and maintained. Identify problems and perform basic troubleshooting, according to knowledge and work experience. Duties will also include general housekeeping, visual production management and product flow, compliance with environmental and safety procedures, and assisting with Operator/Utility tasks.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

The fully trained and qualified Mold Tech is capable of completing the following tasks under general supervision:

• Safely performing injection mold changes and machine start-ups in the proper sequence and within time standards.
• Complying with all SPI requirements for Personal Protective Equipment such as, but not limited to, hard hats, heat gloves/sleeves, steel-toed shoes, eye protection, etc.
• Performing lockout/tagout per requirements and safely operating equipment such as cranes, side load systems, hot runner controllers, etc. per standard work procedures.
• Troubleshooting basic machine and equipment problems.
• Troubleshooting basic robot problems.
• Demonstrating basic knowledge of mold construction and function and is able to assist in the initial troubleshooting process.
• Performing basic Robot End-Of-Arm-Tooling maintenance and repair.
• Completing machine process adjustments, within prescribed limits, to ensure that product meets specifications.
• Identifying non-standard work and machine conditions that are potential safety concerns and taking appropriate action.
• Effectively communicating and advising on product and production concerns with peers on other shifts.
• Assisting the supervisor in managing shift activities and training of operators, utilities, and other mold techs.
• Utilizing Summit Lean Manufacturing Systems principles to monitor inventory, schedule, and run production.
• Assisting with giving Operator/Utility breaks.
• Assisting, as needed, in the grinding of runners and scrap parts.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Agreement to complete all required post-hire training modules within specified time frame.
• A minimum score in the 50th percentile on the DAT Mechanical Reasoning Test.
• A minimum score of 50 on the Wonderlic Select (Traditional score of 16 on the Cognitive portion).
• Meet the physical requirements for the position.
• Physically capable of standing and walking for the entire shift.
• Must be able to lift 60 pounds repeatedly.
• Repeated bending and lifting during the shift.
• Must be able to wear steel-toed footwear.
• Adequate visual acuity to enter/revise molding press programming.
• Must be able to meet requirements for crane license.
• Must be capable of exerting up to 150 foot pounds on torque wrench.
• Must be able to work around a magnetic field.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

This position typically does not require any travel.

DISCLAIMER

The information contained in this job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the duties and responsibilities of the job, nor are they intended to be an all-inclusive list of the skills and abilities required to do the job. Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Agreement to complete all post-hire required training.