Molding Engineer

Role details

Job Description

Molding Engineer is a hands-on technical role responsible for developing, implementing, and optimizing injection molding processes to ensure the production of high-quality molded parts. This position supports new program launches, continuous process improvement, and daily manufacturing operations through scientific molding principles, troubleshooting, and technical leadership. The Molding Engineer also mentors Process Technicians and supports cross functional teams to improve quality, efficiency, and cost.

Roles and Responsibilities

*The Molding Engineer shall be responsible for, but not limited to, the following:*

• Develop, document, and optimize injection molding processes using scientific molding methodologies*

• Support new program launches including mold qualification, process validation, and production start up*

• Work with Pre Production Engineering, Quality, Tooling, and Operations on mold and process development*

• Review Moldflow simulation results and validate predicted performance against actual molded parts*

• Establish and maintain molding process parameters to ensure stable, capable, and repeatable processes*

• Utilize statistical tools (DOE, SPC, capability studies) to drive process robustness and continuous improvement*

• Provide technical support for troubleshooting equipment, tooling, material, and process issues*

• Monitor mold performance and recommend maintenance, refurbishments, or tooling changes based on production data*

• Lead scrap reduction efforts and corrective actions through process improvements*

• Attend and support quality meetings, including customer complaint and 8D activities*

• Maintain accurate and complete process and qualification documentation*

• Train, mentor, and coach Process Technicians and other molding personnel*

• Lead or participate in Kaizen and continuous improvement activities*

• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements*

• Perform other duties as assigned by management*

Skill and Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Plastics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field (equivalent experience may be considered)*

• Minimum of 5 years of hands on injection molding processing experience with presses ranging approximately from 85 to 1100 tons*

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in an automotive manufacturing environment*

• Strong knowledge of scientific injection molding principles, process validation, and mold qualification*

• Experience with hot runner and valve gate systems*

• Proficient in statistical and analytical tools including DOE, SPC, and root cause analysis*

• Ability to read and interpret Moldflow simulation results and apply findings to tooling and process improvements*

• Master Molder certification and/or Paulson molding coursework preferred*

• Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively across cross functional teams*

• Ability to independently manage projects and lead technical initiatives*

Work Environment

• Manufacturing environment with exposure to elevated temperatures generated by injection molding equipment*

• Moderate to loud noise levels; hearing protection available and required in designated areas*

• Potential exposure to fumes, gases, airborne particles, vibration, and moving mechanical parts*

• Physical demands include standing, walking, bending, reaching, climbing, and lifting*

• Ability to frequently lift up to 50 pounds; heavier lifting with assistance*

• Handling of hot, molten plastic materials requiring use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)*

• Fast paced production environment requiring quick response and hands on technical support*

• Travel to supplier or customer sites may be required*

Authority

• Lead molding process activities and technical teams with minimal supervision*

• Establish, modify, and enforce molding process parameters and standards*

• Make technical recommendations related to tooling, equipment, and process changes*

• Own assigned process development and continuous improvement projects through completion*

• Prepare reports and communicate progress, risks, and results to management*