What are the responsibilities and job description for the Technical Trainer – Injection Molding Operations position at NIFCO?
Join our growing Team at NIFCO, where our company’s most valuable asset is our employees! NIFCO America is a leading global supplier of functional plastic parts for the automotive industry. NIFCO offers competitive pay, top notch health benefits with low premiums/deductibles, eleven paid holidays, referral bonus, 401K program plus much more... We have a lot of opportunity for growth at NIFCO!
Job Summary: The Technical Trainer – Injection Molding Operations is responsible for developing, delivering, and maintaining comprehensive training programs for hourly associates in molding operations, including Process Technicians, Mold Setters, and Material Handlers. This role ensures employees are equipped with the necessary technical knowledge, safety awareness, and operational skills to perform their roles effectively and safely. The trainer supports continuous improvement initiatives and ensures compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements.
Essential Functions:
Safety & Compliance
o Mold Setters: mold change procedures, setup verification, tool handling, and safety.
o Material Handlers: material identification, drying procedures, material transfer systems, and contamination prevention.
Education & Experience Requirements
Job Summary: The Technical Trainer – Injection Molding Operations is responsible for developing, delivering, and maintaining comprehensive training programs for hourly associates in molding operations, including Process Technicians, Mold Setters, and Material Handlers. This role ensures employees are equipped with the necessary technical knowledge, safety awareness, and operational skills to perform their roles effectively and safely. The trainer supports continuous improvement initiatives and ensures compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements.
Essential Functions:
Safety & Compliance
- Train employees on safety protocols including PPE usage, Lockout/Tagout, Crane Usage, HAZCOM, OSHA “Right to Know,” and Bloodborne Pathogens.
- Ensure understanding and access to Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
- Promote a culture of safety and report incidents, accidents, and near-misses promptly.
- Ensure compliance with IATF16949 and other applicable standards.
- Deliver hands-on training for:
o Mold Setters: mold change procedures, setup verification, tool handling, and safety.
o Material Handlers: material identification, drying procedures, material transfer systems, and contamination prevention.
- Administer AIM, Grade or equivalent technical training preparation.
- Coordinate team member participation in Dojo training programs, including specialized sessions such as quality training.
- Develop and maintain work instructions and SOPs for molding operations.
- Work closely with SPT (Senior Process Technicians) to create and revise training documents.
- Update SOPs based on SPT feedback and ensure follow-up training is completed.
- Use the training dojo to conduct hands-on technical training sessions.
- Develop and administer written and practical tests to assess training effectiveness.
- Incorporate both classroom and hands-on training formats to meet learning objectives.
- Coordinate all technical new hire training in molding operations.
- Monitor progress at defined intervals; provide retraining as needed.
- Track training using Versatility Charts and maintain accurate training records.
- Support employee development and proficiency upgrades.
- Be available for one-on-one coaching and remedial training.
- Support TPM and 5S implementation through training and reinforcement.
- Collaborate with Production and HR to identify current and future training needs.
- Assist in developing new training methods and materials.
- Update DOJO and add any additional stations needed to support hands-on training
- Represent management philosophies and promote a positive work culture.
Education & Experience Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Minimum 3 years of experience in injection molding operations.
- Proven ability to train and mentor associates across technical roles.
- In-depth technical knowledge of injection molding processes.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing workflows and quality standards.
- Ability to organize, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
- Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Proficient in intermediate math and basic computer applications.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and Word.
- Ability to maintain, update, and organize training records and documentation.
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
- Must be able to lift up to 55 lbs. and stand for extended periods.
- Must be able to work in a loud, fast-paced environment.
- Professional handling of confidential information.
- Must pass pre-employment screening and attend ongoing development courses.