Job Description

Mold Setter/Die Setter – Plastic Injection Molding

Job Type: Full-Time
Shifts: 3rd Shift 11:00 PM Sunday – 7:30 AM Friday
Pay: $21.00–$24.00 per hour + applicable shift differential
Union Position: Yes
Reports To: Shift Foreman

Available Shifts

• 3rd Shift: 11:00 PM Sunday – 7:30 AM Friday

Position Summary

The Mold Setter is responsible for setting up, removing, and maintaining molds used in plastic injection molding production. This position performs mold changes, auxiliary equipment hookups, processing setups, press adjustments, and production startups.

The Mold Setter also troubleshoots mold and press issues, performs minor mold maintenance and repairs, assists the Shift Foreman with equipment-related problems, and helps ensure production runs safely, efficiently, and according to quality standards.

Pay & Benefits

• Base pay: $21.00–$24.00 per hour
• 3rd Shift Differential: +$0.50/hour
• Union position
• Company reimbursement of up to $100 for steel-toe boots
• Company reimbursement of up to $100 for prescription safety glasses

Shift differentials are in addition to the applicable base hourly rate.

What You'll Do

Mold Setup & Changeovers

• Clean mold mounting surfaces before setting molds
• Set up and remove molds on plastic injection molding machines
• Properly align molds and sprue bushings before mounting molds in the press
• Transport molds to and from presses using a tow motor or overhead crane
• Safely disassemble and handle molds following established procedures
• Utilize hazardous energy control and Lockout/Tagout procedures

Auxiliary Equipment Setup

• Complete all required auxiliary equipment setups and connections
• Connect water lines, air lines, thermolators, hoses, and hydraulic lines
• Set up cores, knockout plates, and other mold-related components
• Ensure all connections and hookups are properly installed and secured

Production Startup & Processing

• Start production and perform processing setups
• Adjust injection molding presses as directed
• Perform press startups and verify proper operation
• Test dials, controls, and related equipment
• Monitor molding operations and identify potential issues
• Make appropriate adjustments to support efficient production

Troubleshooting & Maintenance

• Troubleshoot problems involving molds, presses, and related equipment
• Perform minor mold maintenance and repairs
• Clean and lubricate mold surfaces before and after production
• Assist the Shift Foreman with machine and equipment-related problems
• Safely disassemble molds when repairs or maintenance are required
• Identify equipment issues and communicate problems to appropriate personnel

Production Support

• Assist with machine scheduling and shift production as directed
• Fill in for the Shift Foreman when assigned
• Take inventory as required
• Update shop orders, process documentation, and work instructions
• Communicate specific job requirements and production information to the following shift
• Perform general service, housekeeping, and cleanup activities as needed
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required

Experience

• Minimum 2 years of experience setting molds on plastic injection molding machines, or equivalent experience
• Experience operating a tow motor/forklift
• Experience with plastic injection molding equipment and processing operations
• Experience working with molding equipment and robots is preferred

Skills & Knowledge

• Ability to read and write
• Ability to follow both verbal and written instructions
• Ability to accurately measure components and equipment
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to safely use hand tools and production equipment
• Ability to work with moderate supervision and exercise sound judgment
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Valid driver's license required

Safety & Quality

Safety and quality are critical responsibilities of the Mold Setter position.

The successful candidate must:

• Follow all company, departmental, and regulatory safety procedures
• Follow hazardous energy control and Lockout/Tagout procedures
• Safely operate overhead cranes and tow motors
• Properly use required personal protective equipment
• Maintain a clean and organized work area
• Perform work correctly the first time and within established production requirements
• Communicate safety, quality, and equipment concerns promptly
• Follow established process documentation and work instructions

Tools & Equipment

The Mold Setter may regularly use a variety of hand tools, machinery, and material-handling equipment, including:

• Ratchets and wrenches
• Screwdrivers
• Hammers
• Pry bars
• Pliers and channel locks
• Knives and cutters
• Sanders
• Mills
• Overhead cranes
• Tow motors / forklifts
• Ladders
• Vacuum loaders
• Parts scales
• Mixing tumblers
• Conveyors and conveyor ramps
• Automatic floor sweepers
• Staple and banding equipment
• Tape machines
• Mold containers and drums
• Funnels
• Cleaning brushes
• Absorbents and rags
• Safety glasses and goggles
• Gloves and dust masks
• Locks and tags

Physical Requirements

This is a physically demanding manufacturing position. The successful candidate must be able to:

• Routinely lift and move 25–75 pounds
• Handle heavy molds, equipment, and production materials
• Stand and walk for most of the work shift
• Bend, twist, stoop, kneel, and reach as required
• Frequently use hands, wrists, shoulders, legs, waist, and back
• Safely operate a tow motor/forklift and overhead crane
• Maintain proper hand-eye coordination when positioning and moving molds
• Tighten mold bolts, connections, hoses, and hookups securely
• Work around heat, dust, and operating production equipment
• Climb ladders and work comfortably at elevated heights
• Work in tight spaces and occasionally in uncomfortable positions
• Perform hands-on mechanical work for extended periods

Work Environment

The Mold Setter works in a fast-paced plastic injection molding manufacturing environment.

The position may involve:

• Exposure to heat and dust
• Working around operating injection molding machines
• Heavy molds and production equipment
• Overhead crane operations
• Forklift/tow motor traffic
• Elevated work areas
• Tight or confined work areas
• Extended periods of standing and physical activity
• Noise associated with manufacturing operations
  
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