Apprentice Programs Jobs in New Prague, MN (NOW HIRING)

Job Title:
Setup Technician Apprentice
Job Description:
THE ROLE:
Our site in Chaska, MN is seeking a Setup Technician Apprentice to join our team.
In this role, technicians are responsible for preparing, setting up, and optimizing injection molding equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and consistent production. As a Setup Technician, you will install molds, adjust processing parameters, perform startups, and verify equipment readiness in alignment with established procedures and quality standards. Working closely with manufacturing, engineering, and quality teams, the technician ensures stable operation, minimizes downtime, and supports continuous improvement across molding processes. This role plays a key part in maintaining product quality, supporting reliable production flow, and contributing to operational excellence.
This position will gain experience as a Setup Technician while completing relevant coursework through the apprenticeship program.
HOURS FOR THIS POSITION ARE MONDAY-FRIDAY DAY SHIFT
WHAT YOU'LL DO:
-Monitor molded products for visual and dimensional conformity, taking corrective action as needed
- Ensure consistent product quality by adhering to specifications, standards, and ISO-compliant processes
- Support key operational processes by contributing to waste reduction, improving throughput, and reinforcing safety, quality, cost, and delivery (SQCD) expectations
- Participate in continuous improvement activities, including 6S, Kaizen, and other problem-solving initiatives to improve process stability
- Set up injection molding presses by following production schedules, retrieving and interpreting work instructions, and preparing auxiliary equipment (oil heaters, thermolators, temperature controllers, robots, end-of-arm tooling)
- Remove molds and related equipment after production runs, assess molds for cleaning or repair needs, and ensure proper storage and housekeeping of press areas
- Complete all required setup documentation, including setup sheets, job packets, and special instructions with accuracy and attention to detail
- Maintain a clean and safe work environment, using required PPE, following approved safety procedures, and promptly communicating hazards or unsafe conditions to leadership
- Engage in daily management routines, supporting Schedule Attainment, Visual Management (SQCD boards), and Daily Improvements (MDI) to strengthen operational performance
- Troubleshoot setup related equipment or process issues to minimize downtime and maintain efficient, stable production
- Monitor molded parts for visual and dimensional conformity; take corrective action or escalate when necessary
WHAT WE SEEK:
-Must be 18 years or older and have the right to work in the US without sponsorship
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- 3-5 years of mechanical or injection molding setup experience preferred
- Basic math, computer literacy, and accurate data entry skills; SAP experience preferred
- Competency using powered hand tools, fasteners, and measurement devices
- Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail for safety and quality
- Competence in basic math and computer data entry
- Demonstrated problem-solving and troubleshooting ability in mechanical or process-based environments
- Experience participating in continuous improvement activities such as Kaizen, 6S, or waste-reduction initiatives
- Ability to recognize and communicate quality defects and ensure parts meet required specifications
WHY WORK AT ENTEGRIS?
Lead, Inspire, Innovate. Define Your Future
Not everyone who works for a global company shares the same background, experiences and perspectives. We leverage the differences of our employees to bring new ideas to the table. Every employee throughout the company is encouraged to share input on projects and initiatives. Our decision-making process is truly a collaborative effort as we realize there are leaders at every level of the organization. We put our values at the core of how we operate as an organization - not just when it's convenient, but in a lasting and meaningful way. We want the time and energy you spend here to have a positive impact on your life inside and outside of the office.
Our total rewards package goes above and beyond just a paycheck. Whether you're looking to build your career, improve your health, or protect your wealth, we offer generous benefits to help you achieve your goals.

• Compensation: $24-$28 hourly range with actual pay dependent on candidate overall skills for the role.
• Annual Bonus Eligible
• 3 weeks of vacation to take the time you need to recharge
• Generous 401(K) plan with an impressive employer match with no delayed vesting
• Excellent health, dental and vision insurance packages to fit your needs
• Education assistance to support your learning journey
• Values-driven culture with colleagues that rally around People, Accountability, Creativity and Excellence
• The company anticipates the application window closing approximately 5 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require Company to shorten or extend the application window

At Entegris we are committed to providing equal opportunity to all employees and applicants. Our policy is to recruit, hire, train, and reward employees for their individual abilities, achievements and experience without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, marital or military status.
Entegris strongly encourages all of its employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19. At Entegris, COVID-19 vaccination is preferred but not required at this time.