Bachelor's degree in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field; equivalent experience may suffice.
5 to 10 years of injection molding experience in a Tier 1 automotive manufacturing setting.
Technical expertise in Yushin, Yaskawa (Motoman), Star, Fanuc, UR robots, and injection molding machines.
Strong knowledge of hot runner systems, mold flow analysis, and mold maintenance.
Familiarity with scientific molding, decoupled molding, and root cause analysis techniques.
Proficiency in Moldflow, CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD), and ERP/MES systems.
Bilingual in English/Spanish is a strong plus.
Responsibilities
Establish and optimize molding parameters for efficiency and quality.
Diagnose and resolve defects and process inefficiencies using scientific molding principles.
Collaborate with tooling suppliers and internal teams for mold maintenance and upgrades.
Select materials and set up machines for optimal production performance.
Implement Toyota Production System (TPS), Kaizen, and Lean Manufacturing for continuous improvement.
Ensure product quality meets IATF 16949 and ISO 14001 standards using DOE and statistical methodologies.
Assist in new product development for Toyota model updates and engineering changes.
Benefits
Equal employment opportunities regardless of background or status.
Supportive work environment focused on safety and compliance.
Access to ongoing training and certification opportunities.
Potential career growth within an established automotive manufacturing company.
Full Job Description
Key Responsibilities
Process Optimization: Establish and refine molding parameters to maximize efficiency, minimize scrap, and ensure consistent quality.
Troubleshooting & Problem-Solving: Diagnose and resolve defects, machine issues, and process inefficiencies scientific molding principles.
Tooling & Equipment Management: Work with tooling suppliers and internal teams to ensure proper mold maintenance, modifications, and performance optimization.
Material & Machine Parameters: Select appropriate materials (PP, ABS, Nylon, and other automotive-grade resins) and set up injection molding machines for optimal production.
Continuous Improvement: Apply Toyota Production System (TPS), Kaizen, and Lean Manufacturing principles to drive cost savings and efficiency improvements.
Quality Control: Ensure parts meet IATF 16949 and ISO 14001 quality standards, utilizing DOE (Design of Experiments) and other statistical methodologies.
Collaboration: Work closely with production, maintenance, and quality teams to drive improvements in safety, efficiency, and defect reduction.
New Product Development: Assist in launching new molds, engineering changes, and process development for upcoming Toyota model updates.
Compliance & Safety: Ensure molding processes comply with OSHA regulations, internal safety policies, and environmental standards.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Waste Reduction: Decrease scrap rates and improve first-pass yield.
Quality Performance: Ensure defect-free parts that meet Toyota's stringent quality expectations.
Process Efficiency: Reduce cycle times and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
Qualifications & Skills
Education: Bachelor's degree in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field. Equivalent experience may be considered.
Experience: 5 to 10 years of injection molding experience (preferably) in a Tier 1 automotive manufacturing environment.
Technical Knowledge:
Strong experience with Yushin, Yaskawa (Motoman), Star,Fanuc, UR Robots and injection molding machines.
Understanding of hot runner systems, mold flow analysis, and mold maintenance.
Expertise in scientific molding, decoupled molding, and root cause analysis (5Why, Fishbone, etc.).
Familiarity with Toyota Production System (TPS), Lean Manufacturing, and Six Sigma methodologies.
Software Proficiency: Experience with Moldflow, CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD), and ERP/MES systems.
Bilingual (Preferred):English/Spanish is a strong plus.
Certifications (Preferred): RJG Master Molder Certification, Six Sigma Green Belt, or equivalent industry certifications.
Additional Information
Work Environment: Manufacturing facility with exposure to noise, machinery, and varying temperatures.
Physical Requirements: Ability to stand, walk, and lift up to 50 lbs. as needed for troubleshooting and machine setup.
Schedule: May require occasional weekend or off-shift support depending on production needs.
