Thermoforming and Injection Molding Set‑Up Specialist

Be the Expert Who Makes Changeovers Look Easy

If precision, pace, and problem solving energize you, this role puts you at the center of production readiness. You’ll lead rapid set-ups, keep molds in top shape, and fine-tune controls so every run meets quality and throughput goals.

What You’ll Do

• Perform complete mechanical changeovers (major/minor): line set-ups, mold swaps, trim tool changes, guide bar replacement, pick adjustments, and control tuning.
• Handle end-to-end mold changes: disconnect, remove, relocate, install, reconnect, and validate to production readiness.
• Troubleshoot machine and peripheral issues; adjust related equipment to maintain quality at published rates.
• Support PMs (weekly/monthly/quarterly), including component rebuilds on trim presses, formers, printers, grinders, tooling, and automation.
• Maintain tooling organization and readiness; operate and maintain tool cleaning systems and tanks (filters, solutions, tank cleaning).
• Clean and inspect molds on a schedule; document conditions and track tool history.
• Recommend and implement improvements that cut downtime and reduce changeover time.
• Train and oversee teammates to protect set-up quality and standard work.
• Assist with process technician tasks and daily shop routines (mold cleaning, pre-staging).
• Specify and assist in procuring spare parts.

How You’ll Succeed

• Work independently with minimal supervision while staying highly organized.
• Balance multiple priorities and drive continuous improvement with a results-first mindset.
• Communicate clearly at every level and model best work practices and safe behaviors.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED (required).
• Skilled machinist experience in a high-precision shop/manufacturing environment (preferred).
• Close-tolerance fabrication, assembly, and machine set-up expertise.
• Strong use of precision measurement and set-up instruments.
• Comfort with computerized machine controls/HMIs and desktop applications for data collection/manipulation.
• Team player; self-motivated, accountable, and a strong problem solver.
• Hydraulic/electrical/mechanical/general maintenance knowledge (preferred).
• Experience in injection molding/plastics industry (preferred).
• Experience operating cranes/forklifts and handling heavy molds (preferred).

Work Conditions

Expect occasional overtime, on-call responsibilities, and the need to adjust hours, shifts, or teams to support production.

Bring These Proficiencies

• Plastic extrusion
• Injection molding
• Thermoforming
• Tool/die/mold set-up

Equipment You’ll Work With

• Injection molding machines
• Extrusion lines
• Blow molding machines