What Is a Blow Mold Machine Operator and How to Become One
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What Does a Blow Mold Machine Operator Do?
The responsibilities of a blow mold machine operator include setting up and operating blow molding equipment used to create hollow plastic products. In this career, you manage the production of one machine in most cases, adjust the controls, set the temperature, adjust the mandrel with the desired mold chamber, and allow the machine to create the product to the client’s specifications under a specific amount of heat and pressure. You use various hand tools, trim excess plastic material from products using knives or a bandsaw, and ensure product quality by inspecting and weighing finished pieces. Other duties include regrinding extra material and any parts that are not to spec, regrinding extra material for reuse, light assembly as needed, and packing boxes with finished pieces. Many employers also expect you to perform minor repairs on machinery.
How Do You Become a Blow Mold Machine Operator?
Qualifications to become a blow mold machine operator include a high school diploma. Some employers preferring previous blow mold or injection molding experience. You can complete a one to three-year apprenticeship, which gives you first-hand experience as you assist an experienced operator in the industry, which also provides you with better job opportunities in the market. Employers desire skills including the ability to work on a team, listening carefully to directions, and being detail oriented. You are expected to understand and maintain company standards, follow all safety procedures including wearing required safety gear such as glasses and gloves, have good judgment on part quality, and work efficiently with little supervision. Physical requirements include the ability to lift up to 60 pounds, use a pallet jack to push and pull up to 600 pounds, stand for the majority of your shift, and know how to use a variety of hand tools and precision measurement tools.
