Set Up Tech

Novolex • Kalamazoo, MI

11d

About The Position

The Set Up Tech safely installs and prepares tooling needed to produce quality thermoformed products. The role handles production changeovers and setup conditions, assembles and aligns tooling, and maintains or modifies molds, trim tools, and lip roller tooling. It may also involve preparing special tooling for test runs, cleaning tooling, and reviewing potential tooling designs. The technician may work independently or as part of a team, depending on department needs, and must troubleshoot setup-related issues that could affect product quality or tooling and equipment life. The position requires safe operation of lift trucks and thermoforming equipment, including starting and stopping KFT2 and KT4 forming lines, along with documentation, housekeeping, and support for a safe working environment.

The schedule is Monday through Friday on days, with nine-hour shifts; shift times may change. Extended workdays and possible weekends may be required as schedules dictate. Compensation is $28.69 per hour, paid weekly.

Requirements

• Three to five years of experience in extrusion or thermoforming.
• Must be a LVL 4 OP or higher and/or have strong mechanical knowledge.
• High school graduate or equivalent.
• Setup and tooling experience.
• Ability to read prints or blueprints.
• Ability to safely operate a lift truck and safely start and stop KFT2 and KT4 forming lines.
• Ability to use precision instruments such as micrometers and calipers and operate machine shop equipment.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision while maintaining a high degree of technical proficiency.
• Effective verbal and written communication, including speaking and presentation skills to conduct meetings.
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, multitask, and prioritize while maintaining effectiveness and composure.
• Ability to understand and participate in company safety programs, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of company products, materials, production methods and procedures, and manufacturing equipment capabilities.
• Fundamental understanding of standard manufacturing business processes and comprehensive knowledge of the process from concept to commercialization.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot, identify problems, and determine an appropriate course of action.
• Ability to accurately record and maintain information.
• Must be able to work nine-hour Monday–Friday shifts, stand and walk for extended periods, and accommodate changing shift times, extended workdays, and possible weekends.
• Must be able to climb, heed safety warnings, devices, and alarms, and communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Must be able to lift and carry products weighing up to 60 pounds and push or pull equipment weighing over 400 pounds.
• Must have adequate problem-solving ability, including establishing cause-and-effect relationships in an office or manufacturing environment.
• Must complete pretests for mechanical aptitude and spatial relationships.

Nice To Haves

• CAD and computer skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform changeovers and setups, including initial tooling installation and process adjustments.
• Assemble, install, and align tooling in equipment.
• Prepare, maintain, and modify molds, trim tools, and lip roller tooling to produce quality thermoformed products.
• Prepare or set up special tooling for test runs, clean tooling as needed, and review potential tooling designs.
• Read blueprints and use precision instruments such as micrometers and calipers; operate machine shop equipment such as lathes and surface grinders.
• Complete required documentation, including SAP work orders and purchase requisitions, to identify equipment deficiencies and ensure appropriate parts and supplies are available.
• Troubleshoot setup-related issues that could cause product flaws or shorten the life of tooling or equipment.
• Maintain a clean and safe working environment and participate in company safety programs, policies, and procedures.
• Safely operate a lift truck and safely start and stop KFT2 and KT4 forming lines.
• Operate thermoforming equipment, peripherals, and standard hand tools.
• Accurately record and maintain required information.
• Work independently or collaboratively, including teaching others technical details as needed.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Well-being resources focused on mental, physical, and financial health; specific offerings may vary by work location.
• Training and development opportunities, including skills development and advanced education programs.
• Tuition Reimbursement Program for non-union employees.
• Community engagement and support for local activities.

What This Job Offers

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