Plastics Engineer

US Conec, Ltd.•Hickory, NC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

US Conec, Ltd. is a global leader in high-density fiber-optic connector solutions with over 30 years of expertise in precision engineering, injection molding, and plastics manufacturing. The Plastics Engineer will lead the development, optimization, and continuous improvement of plastic injection molding processes and tooling for new product introductions and existing production programs. This role involves collaboration with Engineering, Tooling, Quality, and Manufacturing teams to enhance process capability, product quality, efficiency, and cost, while driving innovation in plastics manufacturing operations.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Polymer Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
Experience with plastic injection molding processes in a manufacturing environment.
Knowledge of polymer materials, resin behavior, mold design, and processing principles.
Understanding of statistical and problem-solving methodologies, including DOE, SPC, Measurement R&R, and root cause analysis.
Experience troubleshooting molding processes and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills.
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication abilities.
Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Nice To Haves

Experience with scientific molding methodologies and RJG training/certification.
Hands-on experience with mold qualification, validation, and process capability studies.
Knowledge of automation, robotics, vision systems, and auxiliary equipment used in injection molding operations.
Familiarity with resin drying systems, hot runner technologies, and process monitoring systems.
Experience with 3D CAD software and mold design reviews.
Working knowledge of metrology equipment such as CMMs, CT scanning, optical measurement systems, and vision inspection technologies.
Exposure to medical device, telecommunications, precision plastics, or other high-volume, tight-tolerance manufacturing environments.
Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma training or certifications.

Responsibilities

Develop, validate, and optimize plastic injection molding processes for new and existing products.
Lead process development activities, including mold trials, process qualification, and production readiness efforts.
Analyze molding performance and implement improvements to enhance quality, reduce scrap, improve cycle times, and increase overall equipment effectiveness.
Partner with Tooling, Product Development, and Manufacturing teams on mold design reviews, tooling modifications, and new product launches.
Evaluate and recommend plastic materials and resins based on product performance, manufacturability, and cost objectives.
Utilize scientific molding principles, statistical methods, and data analysis to establish robust and repeatable molding processes.
Troubleshoot molding defects and process issues, including flash, short shots, sink marks, warpage, dimensional variation, and cosmetic concerns.
Develop and maintain process documentation, including setup sheets, work instructions, validation reports, and process standards.
Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, productivity, quality, and cost reduction.
Collaborate with Quality and Manufacturing teams to investigate customer complaints, nonconformances, and returned product, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
Provide technical leadership, training, and mentorship to Process Technicians, Mold Technicians, and production personnel.
Support capital projects involving molding equipment, auxiliary systems, automation, and process monitoring technologies.