Process Optimization Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Sunday night 7pm - 3:30am (different schedule in order to get machines up and running)

Monday PM - Friday AM 9pm - 5:30am 8 hour shifts

The Position:

The Process Technician / Shift Lead is responsible for setting up, optimizing, and maintaining injection molding processes to ensure consistent product quality, safe operation, and efficient production. This position focuses on process control, troubleshooting, mold setup, and continuous improvement within an injection molding environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Process Setup and Optimization

• Set up and start injection molding machines and auxiliary equipment for production runs.
• Establish and adjust process parameters to ensure consistent product quality and optimal machine performance.
• Perform mold changes, machine start-ups, and shutdown procedures.
• Monitor machine cycles, process stability, and product quality during production.
• Optimize molding processes to improve efficiency, reduce scrap, and increase productivity.

Troubleshooting and Technical Support

• Troubleshoot molding issues related to machines, molds, materials, or process conditions.
• Identify and correct defects such as short shots, flash, sink marks, warpage, or dimensional issues.
• Work with maintenance personnel to resolve equipment problems and minimize downtime.
• Document process changes and maintain accurate production and process records.

Quality Assurance

• Verify products meet customer specifications and quality standards.
• Perform in-process inspections and monitor product consistency.
• Ensure proper packaging and labeling of finished products.
• Support quality investigations and corrective action processes when defects occur.

Production Support and Leadership

• Provide technical guidance and support to machine operators and production staff.
• Train operators on proper machine operation, safety procedures, and quality requirements.
• Assist supervisors in coordinating daily production activities.
• Ensure workstations remain safe, clean, and organized according to company policies.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve processes, reduce waste, and increase efficiency.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives such as lean manufacturing or process optimization projects.
• Assist in implementing new molds, materials, and production processes

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical training or certification preferred.
• 2+ years of experience as a Process Technician in injection molding.
• Strong understanding of injection molding processes, tooling, and plastic materials.
• Ability to read and interpret process sheets, blueprints, and work instructions.
• Experience using measurement and inspection tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with robotics, automation, and auxiliary equipment (dryers, chillers, loaders).

Functional Requirements

Routinely able to:

• Manually lift and move product and materials up to 55 lbs. through regular physical exertion, including but not limited to reach forward, reach overhead, lift, carry, crouch and bend.
• Power grip and wrist turn, including the use of hand tools and/or steering for truck.
• Walk, sit or stand for up to 12 hours with intermittent breaks.
• Push / pull 100lbs.
• See, inspect, and evaluate product quality
• Read and understand written work instructions in English
• Work in a non-climate controlled environment, including hot and humid conditions.
• Walk up and down steps
• Climb ladders and stairs of varying height
• Wear task-based Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Protective Footwear;
  • Hearing Protection
  • Protective Eyewear
  • Gloves
  • Additional PPE may as required by specific tasks

• Generous medical/dental insurance plan
• 80-84 hours of paid Holiday
• Flexible PTO/UTO policy
• 401k with company match
• Company-paid Short-term disability
• Employee assistance plan
• Career advancement
• Formal leadership development
• Education reimbursement program
• Recognition and awards
• Employee events (fishing contests, Christmas turkeys, potlucks, appreciation meals, and more)

An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background verification check, subject to applicable laws and regulations.