Hourly Injection Molding Process Engineer Jobs in Le Mars, IA

Description
SUMMARY:
The Process Technician serves as a technical focal point for the Injection Molding area. This position is responsible for the accurate setup, start-up, and optimization of injection molding equipment to ensure production of quality parts within defined parameters. Duties include mold setup, machine adjustments, first-piece inspections, troubleshooting, and process documentation. Provides training to designated employees and assists with machinery problems to support efficient and safe production operations. Supports continuous improvement, quality assurance, and adherence to company policies and safety standards.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: includes the following. Other duties may be assigned.
1. Perform proper setup and start-up of injection molding machines, robotics, printing, and packaging equipment; complete required documentation and verify first-piece approval before releasing production.
2. Diagnose and resolve process issues, documenting steps taken; perform or assist with necessary adjustments to ensure machines run within established parameters.
3. Maintain efficient setup procedures and work practices to meet production schedules; coordinate priorities with management.
4. Train designated employees on processing tasks, proper machine use, and troubleshooting techniques.
5. Conduct mold changeovers and mold tear-downs as needed; ensure proper storage, care, and handling of molds.
6. Operate forklifts and other material handling equipment to support mold changes, setups, and general production needs.
7. Recommend improvements to production methods, workflow, and equipment performance.
8. Coordinate with Corporate Maintenance regarding maintenance needs or projects.
9. Work with Quality Assurance to ensure products meet specifications; verify part conformance through first-piece inspection and ongoing quality checks.
10. Ensure safe operating procedures are followed, including PPE compliance, proper ergonomics, and housekeeping standards; report safety concerns promptly.
11. Support Injection Team operations by performing necessary tasks to maintain workflow and meet production schedules.
12. Communicate professionally with employees and management; follow appropriate chain of command and respond to employee and customer needs.
13. Serve as a positive example of company policy compliance, professionalism, teamwork, and morale.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
None.
KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Proficiency in setup, troubleshooting, and operation of injection molding machinery.
• Ability to program computerized controllers and maintain process settings.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow work instructions, quality specifications, and production documentation.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to complete accurate production and employee-related documentation.
• Competence in basic math: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals.
• Ability to use basic computing for data collection and ERP/MRP entry.
• Ability to build positive relationships and work effectively as part of a team.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
• 3-5 years of Injection Molding experience, including troubleshooting, processing, and setup.
• Experience with a variety of materials including polyethylene, ABS, nylon, engineered resins, and TPE is strongly preferred.
• Blow molding experience helpful but not required.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:
Certified powered industrial lifts - forklift, pallet jack, etc.; Level 2 Saw
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. Work exposure varies depending on duties being performed and particular job order being processed.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, bend, twist and move about the facility. Employee regularly uses hands to grip, finger, handle, or feel; reaches with hands and arms. Must be able to push, pull and move equipment and/or supplies in excess of 50 pounds, and have ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs. Occasionally lifts product in excess of 50 lbs either individually or through team lift. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus and to distinguish colors. Ability to climb in/out of and drive powered industrial trucks. The employee is occasionally required to operate a computer, use the telephone, kneel, squat and lay. Frequent exposure to elements such as odors, oil, fumes, noise, & changing weather conditions.
Employee must wear required personal protective equipment, including hardhat, safety glasses with side shields, goggles/face shields, safety footwear, hearing protection in designated areas, Kevlar gloves, and/or other equipment as task dictate. For specific equipment, see the Hazard Assessment for the work area and type of operation being performed.
Den Hartog Industries has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and abilities. Supervisors may assign additional functions and requirements as deemed appropriate.