What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manufacturing Process Technician position at AprilAire?
We are currently looking for an experienced Manufacturing Process Technician - Plastics to join our Poynette Ops team! In this role you will be responsible for overseeing and optimizing all aspects of plastic injection molding operations to ensure safe, efficient,
and high-quality production. This position supports daily manufacturing activities by setting up molding machines, completing mold changeovers, adjusting process parameters, and maintaining stable and repeatable operations in support of the manufacturing schedule.
This is a 2nd shift, fully onsite position with working hours of 3:00pm - 11:30pm Mon-Fri.
Machine Operation & Process Control
- Operate and manage plastic injection molding machines and auxiliary equipment, monitoring and adjusting process parameters to maintain stable, high-quality production and minimize scrap.
- Perform efficient mold changeovers and ensure accurate machine settings for each part number.
- Ensure all molded parts meet drawing, specification, and quality requirements through disciplined process control.
Troubleshooting & Repair
- Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electronic issues affecting molding operations using sound engineering practices and modern diagnostic tools.
- Perform emergency repairs during assigned shift and provide off hours support when needed to prevent production delays.
- Recommend and implement corrective actions or process modifications to improve equipment reliability and part quality.
Mold Setup, Maintenance & Reliability
- Set up, install, repair, and maintain injection molds to ensure consistent performance, part integrity, and extended mold life.
- Complete scheduled preventative maintenance on molds, machines, and related equipment.
Process Optimization & Data Analysis
- Collect, interpret, and analyze production data to identify opportunities for improving efficiency, cycle times, capacity, quality, and reducing downtime or setup time.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to the development of robust, repeatable processes.
Engineering & Prototype Support
- Collaborate with Manufacturing and Process Engineering teams to design, build, test, and validate prototype machinery, fixtures, and devices involving mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
- Support special projects involving equipment upgrades, new process development, or tooling trials.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow all safety procedures, particularly when working with high voltage systems, stored energy devices, and mechanical hazards.
- Use testing instruments and diagnostic equipment to ensure safe, reliable operation of circuits, components, controls, and systems.
Professional Development
- Participate in training programs, technical seminars, and relevant industry events to maintain and enhance technical knowledge.
- Two year extrusion molding, plastic injection or other related technical field/trade experience required.
- Experience with tool change over and machine set up required,
- Team mentality and collaborative approach
- Curious and inquisitive mindset with focus on problem-solving
- General understanding of Scientific Molding Methodology and Principles
- Basic electrical and hydraulic knowledge preferred
- Experience troubleshooting limit switches, heater bands and hydraulic cores
- Prior Cross-functional collaboration (materials, production, shipping/receiving, engineering) experience required
- Ability to translate complex data into actionable recommendations
- Strong critical thinking and root-cause analysis
- Proactive issue identification and resolution
- Ability to thrive in fast-paced environments