Molding Process Technician - Apprentice

Flex-N-Gate • Grand Rapids, MI

10d • Onsite

About The Position

The Molding Process Technician Apprentice participates in on-the-job training and technical instruction to develop the skills needed to become a qualified Molding Process Technician. Under the guidance of experienced process technicians and other molding personnel, the apprentice learns to set up, monitor, and adjust injection molding equipment to produce quality parts that meet customer requirements.

The apprentice develops knowledge of injection molding processes, mold changes, auxiliary equipment, robotics, process troubleshooting, and quality standards. The role requires a commitment to safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement, while following company policies, procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred, but not required.
• Demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in manufacturing, injection molding, or industrial process technology.
• Good mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn technical processes and equipment operation.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors.
• Basic math skills and ability to learn to interpret process sheets, production records, and technical documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality products.
• Dependability, accountability, flexibility, and ability to work independently on assigned tasks or as part of a team.
• Willingness to learn troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, mold setup, and injection molding processes.
• Ability to prioritize assigned tasks and adapt to changing production needs.
• Basic computer skills and ability to complete required production and quality documentation.
• Commitment to following company safety procedures, quality standards, and environmental requirements.
• Willingness to attend related classes at a local college chosen by Ventra.
• Ability to work various shifts and overtime as required by manufacturing needs.
• Ability to perform manufacturing-related physical activities, including standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, if this accurately reflects the essential job functions.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety footwear, safety glasses, and other equipment required by the task and facility.

Nice To Haves

• High school diploma or GED is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Assist experienced process technicians with setup, adjustment, startup, shutdown, and monitoring of injection molding machines.
• Learn to establish and maintain molding conditions in accordance with approved process sheets and customer quality requirements.
• Assist with mold changes, including mold installation and removal, under appropriate supervision and after completing required training.
• Learn mold components and basic mold functions, including core logic, ejector systems, and related tooling components.
• Develop knowledge of molding auxiliary equipment, including dryers, hoppers, color mixers, loaders, Thermarators, circulators, grinders, hot runner controllers, robots, and sprue pickers.
• Assist with setup and operation of auxiliary equipment, automation, assembly equipment, and robotic systems as trained and authorized.
• Learn to connect and verify water, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical connections associated with molds and auxiliary equipment.
• Monitor production processes and inspect in-process parts for conformity with established quality standards.
• Learn to recognize and troubleshoot common molding defects, including flash and short shots, and assist with process troubleshooting and identifying potential root causes of equipment, tooling, and quality problems.
• Follow production schedules, prioritize assigned work, and support timely production startups and mold changes.
• Assist with material and color changes as required.
• Provide mechanical and production support to molding operators and assist Resin Handlers with material-related activities as needed.
• Learn and complete production startup procedures, first-piece submissions, and required quality approvals before production continues, according to established procedures.
• Access and verify job information, bills of material, quality alerts, deviations, and production records.
• Accurately and promptly document process changes, shift activities, inspections, and other required information, including entries in IQMS or other company systems.
• Assist with routine machine and tooling preventative maintenance, TPM activities, and simple tool maintenance as trained.
• Communicate equipment breakdowns and maintenance concerns to appropriate personnel, and report tooling issues to the supervisor or process engineering team.
• Follow lockout/tagout procedures, safety rules, environmental requirements, and established work instructions.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with housekeeping and 5S standards.
• Recognize and report unsafe conditions, equipment issues, and potential quality concerns.
• Participate in required apprenticeship coursework, practical training, and skills assessments.
• Identify opportunities to improve process capability, product quality, production yields, productivity, and equipment reliability as knowledge and experience develop.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: High school or GED