Molding Operator

The Molding Operator works across various stations within the Molding Department under the direction of the Molding Junior (Jr.) Supervisor or other production leadership. Responsibilities include rubber clicking, peeling/de-molding, working with lead, wiring, bearing building, and molding rubber components. This position plays an active role in production planning, cost management, product verification, process control, and workplace organization.

Operators must be comfortable using forklifts, pallet jacks, overhead cranes, and other heavy equipment. They are expected to prepare and maintain machinery, contribute to production flow, and comply strictly with safety, quality, and efficiency procedures. The role requires a strong focus on maintaining a clean and well-managed workspace and ensuring consistent process control for product quality and operational reliability.

Essential Duties:

• Operation of press equipment

• Assembly of product for processing

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation.

• Follow safety protocols and use required PPE at all times.

• Operate forklifts, overhead cranes, and other equipment safely and eficiently.

• Participate in safety meetings, audits, and incident reporting.

• Execute assigned tasks according to daily production schedules.

• Communicate equipment needs, material status, and worklow updates to supervisors.

• Monitor task progress to support production deadlines.

• Minimize waste by following procedures for material usage.

• Identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements.

• Ensure optimal equipment operation to avoid downtime and rework.

• Use tools such as calipers and measuring tape to verify product dimensions.

• Conduct visual inspections and identify any defects or variances.

• Record inspection results and maintain product traceability logs.

• Monitor molding process parameters and maintain consistency in operations.

• Assist with setup and calibration of equipment.

• Report variations in process conditions to supervisors to prevent quality issues.

• Practice 5S (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) principles.

• Organize tools, materials, and documents to support operational efficiency.

• Maintain work area and equipment in accordance with maintenance schedules and cleanliness standards.

• Inspect and prepare equipment before use.

• Monitor machine performance during operations.

• Report malfunctions or required maintenance immediately.

• Report incidents, product issues, and safety concerns clearly and promptly.

• Maintain accurate production records, including output, downtime, and rework.

• Perform cross-functional support within the department as needed and participate in continuous improvement activities.

• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Required Skills, Education, and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Prior experience in industrial or manufacturing environment preferred

• Knowledge of molding processes and production equipment

• Ability to interpret work instructions, safety guidelines, and production schedules

• Familiarity with quality inspection tools and techniques

• Basic computer skills; experience with Microsoft Excel preferred

• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities

• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management

• Ability to work in a physically demanding environment

• Self-motivated with a commitment to safety and quality

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer

• Standing or Walking

• Alternate Sitting or Standing at Will

• Lifting or Carrying, Pushing or Pulling up to 30lbs.

• Reaching Overhead

• Stooping, kneeling, crouching or crawling

• Reaching At or Below Shoulder Level

• Using hands and ingers to manipulate, handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls

• Keyboarding and operating standard ofice equipment

• Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus to read instructions, and be aware of surroundings at all times

• Occasionally: responding quickly to sounds or when seeing dangerous situations