Mold Setter I

ALPLA NOAM•Vandalia, OH

About The Position

The Mold Setter I assists with mold changes on molding machines, including removing and installing molds, heads, and related tooling. The role sets up machines for production runs by programming parameters, setting temperatures and process parameters, and conducting startups to verify that products meet specifications. The Mold Setter troubleshoots molding, machine, and tooling abnormalities; adjusts settings to improve cycle time, quality, and efficiency; and inspects tooling for wear, damage, or defects, reporting and coordinating repairs. The position also ensures proper mold alignment, clamping, cooling, and operation; documents setup parameters, process changes, and production data; follows setup sheets, process documentation, and production schedules; maintains 5S standards; and supports downtime reduction. The employee must follow ALPLA safety standards, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), PPE use, safe mold handling, and reporting near misses, hazards, and unsafe conditions. The role collaborates with Mold Setter II, Technicians, Maintenance, and Production teams; communicates job status and issues; supports continuous improvement; and may assist with operator training on machine operation and quality checks. Performance is measured by Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), changeover efficiency, operational waste, and safety compliance. Other duties may be assigned.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 2 years of experience operating molding machines.
Understanding of plastics materials, such as HEPE, PP, and PET.
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.
Ability to meet the described physical demands, including standing, walking, reaching, handling objects, and lifting loads of varying weights.
Act in a safe and environmentally responsible manner and adhere to ALPLA policies, procedures, and OSHA safety standards.

Nice To Haves

Technical certifications in plastic processing or manufacturing.
Experience with automation systems and robotics.
Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience.

Responsibilities

Assist with mold changes on molding machines, including removing and installing molds, heads, and related tooling.
Set up machines for production runs, including programming parameters and setting temperatures and process parameters.
Conduct startups and verify product quality against specifications.
Troubleshoot molding, machine, and tooling abnormalities to minimize downtime and scrap while ensuring product quality.
Adjust machine settings to optimize cycle time, quality, and efficiency.
Inspect molds and tooling for wear, damage, or defects; report and coordinate repairs.
Ensure proper alignment, clamping, cooling, and operation of molds.
Document setup parameters, process changes, and production data.
Follow setup sheets, process documentation, and production schedules.
Maintain 5S standards in the work area.
Support downtime reduction through efficient preparation and execution.
Follow ALPLA safety standards, including LOTO, PPE use, safe mold handling, and reporting near misses, hazards, and unsafe conditions.
Work with Mold Setter II, Technicians, Maintenance, and Production teams to meet performance objectives.
Communicate job status, issues, and handoffs effectively.
Support continuous improvement initiatives.
Support operator training on machine operation and quality checks as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.