Injection Molding Process Tech (Process Technician 3)

RUSSTECH ENGINEERING CO., INC.•Mukilteo, WA

12d•$36 - $44•Onsite

About The Position

Russtech has successfully launched its in-house injection molding operation and currently produces aerospace components using multiple production molds and a Sodick GL100 hybrid injection molding machine. We are looking for an experienced Process Technician to help expand our molding capabilities as we add a second molding machine and onboard additional molds for new product lines. This is a highly hands-on role with significant responsibility. You will be the primary owner of the injection molding operation and will be responsible for ensuring both molding machines, molds, materials, and supporting equipment are operating effectively. While production personnel may assist with machine tending and secondary operations, you will be the technical lead for all aspects of molding operations. The ideal candidate enjoys solving problems, working independently, developing robust processes, and helping build a growing manufacturing capability within a small aerospace company.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required.
Minimum 5 years of hands-on injection molding process technician experience.
Strong understanding of plastics processing principles and injection molding fundamentals.
Experience setting up, optimizing, and troubleshooting injection molding processes.
Experience processing engineering-grade thermoplastics.
Experience performing mold changes and machine setups.
Ability to safely operate overhead gantry cranes.
Ability to safely operate forklifts.
Experience using measuring and inspection equipment to verify molded part quality.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and process documentation.
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
Basic computer proficiency and ability to maintain production records.
Strong communication skills and ability to work independently with limited supervision.
Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
Ability to regularly lift up to 55 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Experience with scientific molding methods and process development.
Experience processing high-temperature materials such as PEI (Ultem®), PEEK, PPS, LCP, or similar engineering thermoplastics.
Experience with Sodick molding equipment or similar hybrid, electric, or hydraulic molding machines.
Experience with aerospace, defense, medical, or other high-precision manufacturing environments.
Familiarity with AS9100 quality systems.
Experience with mold qualification, validation, and new product introduction activities.
Understanding of mold design, tooling, cooling systems, and mold maintenance.
Experience with automation or robotics integration.
Experience using ERP/MRP systems.
Current forklift certification.

Responsibilities

Set up molds and perform mold changes using an overhead gantry crane.
Process, operate, optimize, and troubleshoot injection molding machines.
Support the startup and qualification of a second injection molding machine.
Test, sample, and validate new molds prior to production release.
Develop and optimize molding processes using scientific molding principles.
Process high-performance engineering thermoplastics, including glass-filled Ultem® and similar aerospace-grade materials.
Issue, stage, dry, and manage materials for production jobs.
Monitor machine performance, process stability, part quality, cycle times, and scrap levels.
Perform visual inspections and basic dimensional verification of molded parts.
Troubleshoot molding defects and implement corrective actions.
Perform minor machine maintenance and support routine maintenance activities.
Maintain auxiliary equipment including dryers, temperature control units, loaders, and other molding support equipment.
Work with high-temperature/high-pressure water temperature control systems used for mold heating.
Support basic mold maintenance and tooling upkeep.
Operate forklifts to move molds, materials, and finished goods.
Maintain process documentation and production records.
Assist management with ordering molding materials, spare parts, tooling, and equipment supplies.
Collaborate with Engineering, Quality, and Production personnel to support production goals and continuous improvement activities.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while supporting 5S initiatives.