Mold Technician I - 1st Shift

Location: Dane, WI

Hours: Monday through Friday, 06:30 AM – 3:00 PM; overtime available.

Pay: Up to $31 per hour (based on experience).

Sign-On Bonus: $5,000 

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Support the supervisor in monitoring shift operations to ensure efficiency and a smooth workflow.
• Communicate effectively and promptly with team members using both verbal and written methods, including maintaining and updating the SMED log.
• Follow and troubleshoot master setup procedures to ensure proper machine and mold operation.
• Perform plant startup and shutdown procedures safely and in accordance with established protocols.
• Conduct insert changes and perform preventive maintenance on production molds, including cleaning, inspecting, and lubricating molds in operation.
• Execute timely and accurate machine startups, mold changes, insert changes, and color purges.
• Set up and operate injection molding, compression molding, and associated auxiliary equipment.
• Support the onboarding and training of new employees on equipment operation and standard work procedures as directed.  
• Maintain accurate production records and quality inspection reports, inspect parts and components for defects and compliance to quality standards, and promptly report quality issues to the appropriate team members.
• Ability to maintain a clean and organized workspace in high-traffic areas to minimize trips, fall, and collision hazards.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of team, departmental, and organizational goals.

Qualifications:

• Required:
  • Minimum of 1 year of experience as a Mold Technician or in a related manufacturing environment.
  • Forklift experience; must be willing and able to obtain certification.
  • Demonstrates the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Preferred:
  • Experience operating injection molding machines.
  • ​Experience with mold setup, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair. 
  • Ability to read and interpret prints, work orders, and related documentation to complete production records and follow work instructions accurately.
  • Ability to work with a variety of tools and materials applicable to the position.
  • Basic computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Office; experience with JDE or similar ERP software.

Physical and Safety Requirements:

Physical Demands 

• Lifting & Carrying: Ability to lift and carry up to 50lbs frequently throughout the shift. 
• Stamina & Positioning: Ability to stand for 8–10 hours, walk, crawl, climb ladders, or work in confined spaces.  
• Manual Dexterity: Performs tasks requiring precise hand-eye coordination, including assembly, tool operation, and use of heavy machinery. 
• Sensory Abilities: Ability to visually inspect materials and equipment; detects auditory warning signals in environments with ambient noise. 

Safety Requirements 

• Safety Compliance: Ability to follow all company safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
• PPE Compliance: Required to wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety-toed shoes, safety glasses, and hearing protection; additional PPE such as face shields, goggles, aprons, or respirators may be required based on position.
• Equipment Certification: Ability to obtain and maintain required certifications for forklift, powered pallet jack, and hoist/crane operation; adherence to lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures and hazardous material handling protocols where applicable.
• Environmental Awareness: Ability to work in non-climate-controlled environments and near moving mechanical parts; may be exposed to varying temperature conditions depending on season and facility.

Vollrath Core Values: 

Take Ownership: Our intention is to match our actions with our words, building trust with others.  We are united in taking responsibility for the success of Vollrath as a whole.  

Empower Action: Our intention is to create a workplace where every member can thrive in their growth and contributions with excitement, confidence, and psychological safety.  We support each team member with resources and tools to strengthen collaboration and performance.  

Treat All People With Respect: Our intention is to recognize the diverse experiences, styles, and backgrounds of others, treating everyone with dignity.  We aim to foster an inclusive culture where all team members can be their authentic self and feel safe in voicing their perspectives.  

Life Beyond Work: Our intention is to care for the well-being of every individual we engage with, understanding them as a whole person.  We strive to keep people mentally and physically safe, sending each person home in a condition to build a fulfilling life beyond work.  We encourage balance, allowing our colleagues to pursue their passions.  

Commitment to Those Who Count on Us: Our intention is to drive innovation and practical solutions through understanding the needs of our coworkers, customers, owners, and communities.  We are dedicated to proactively addressing those needs and delivering results.  

About This Location: 

Founded in 1874, The Vollrath Company is a privately held, family-owned, sixth- and seventh-generation woman-owned company with a long history of innovation in the foodservice industry. More than 85% of our products are proudly made in America, with our primary manufacturing operations headquartered in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. 

Our Dane, Wisconsin facility specializes in plastic manufacturing, including plastic injection molding, compression molding, and plastic fabrication to support a wide range of commercial foodservice products.  

At Vollrath, we take pride in our craftsmanship, commitment to continuous improvement, and the talented people who make our success possible as we continue Creating Better for our customers, employees, and communities.