Manufacturing Associate III - Machine Operator
Job Summary
Operates injection molding machines used in the manufacturing process. Responsible for setting up and adjusting machines, changing mold bases, maintaining production output, monitoring part quality, and supporting secondary finishing operations as needed.
Key Responsibilities
- Injection Molding Machine Operation
- Set up and operate injection molding machines
- Locate and install mold bases
- Preheat mold bases before production
- Change out mold bases as required
- Purge machines to remove foreign material
- Make initial machine adjustments for production runs
- Troubleshoot machine issues during operation
- Perform routine machine maintenance
Secondary Operations (as needed)
- O-ringing
- Skiving
- Gate clipping
- Inspect finished parts for quality
Production & Quality Control
- Monitor part quality during production
- Maintain production schedule and output goals
- Assist with secondary operations when required
Safety, Team & Workplace Expectations
- Follow and actively support all plant safety programs
- Immediately report injuries, near misses, and unsafe conditions
- Participate in High Performance Teams (HPTs) and improvement initiatives
- Maintain clean and organized work areas using 5S standards
- Keep aisles clear and tools properly stored
- Record accurate production data (labor reports, quantities, rejects, reclaim tickets, hours worked)
- Maintain attendance and punctuality
- Overtime required based on production needs
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
- Education / Experience
- High school diploma or GED required
- OR
- 6+ months of machine operation or related manufacturing experience
Required Skills
Ability to read and follow:
Work orders
Blueprints
Equipment manuals
Written and verbal instructions
Basic math skills (add, subtract, multiply; calculate ratios and percentages)
Ability to follow structured instructions and solve basic production issues
Attention to detail and ability to monitor quality
Physical Requirements
This is a physically active manufacturing role, including:
- Frequent standing and walking
- Frequent use of hands for machine operation and part handling
- Occasional sitting
- Lifting/carrying:
- Up to 20 lbs frequently
- 50 lbs occasionally
- Frequent bending, squatting, kneeling, and reaching
- Exposure to repetitive machine operation tasks
- Ability to wear required PPE (safety glasses, safety shoes, etc.)
- Good near and color vision required
Work Environment
Manufacturing floor with injection molding machinery
Regular exposure to:
Loud noise
Heat
Fumes/airborne particles (occasionally)
Vibration
Mechanical and electrical hazards
Safety-sensitive environment requiring continuous awareness