What are the responsibilities and job description for the Plastic Injection Molding Machine Operator | Entry Level 3rd Shift position at Zentech Consulting?
Plastic Injection Molding Machine Operator
Job Type: Full-Time
Industry: Plastics Manufacturing / Injection Molding
Pay: $15.50
Schedule: Monday-Thursday from 9pm-7am
Position Summary
We are seeking a reliable Plastic Injection Molding Machine Operator to operate injection molding presses and produce high-quality plastic components according to established production and quality standards.
The Machine Operator will load parts and inserts, monitor machine cycles, inspect finished products for defects, trim and finish molded parts, and maintain a clean and safe work area. The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, and comfortable working on their feet in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate plastic injection molding machines/presses according to established procedures and production requirements.
- Load plastic or metal inserts into molds as required for specific production runs.
- Monitor machine cycles and production output to ensure consistent operation.
- Remove molded parts from the press and inspect finished products for defects.
- Compare finished parts against approved samples and work instructions.
- Measure parts as required to ensure they meet established specifications.
- Identify defects, quality issues, or inconsistencies and notify appropriate personnel.
- Trim excess plastic, flash, and gates from molded parts.
- Grind scrap and defective plastic material for potential reuse when required.
- Sort and handle finished goods, scrap, and regrind appropriately.
- Complete required production and quality documentation accurately.
- Follow production schedules and maintain consistent production output.
- Keep machines, tools, and the surrounding work area clean and organized.
- Follow all safety procedures and company policies.
- Communicate production or quality issues to supervisors and coworkers.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Quality Responsibilities
- Maintain consistent part quality throughout the production run.
- Inspect parts for defects such as flash, short shots, warping, discoloration, or other abnormalities.
- Follow approved samples, work instructions, and quality standards.
- Separate defective parts from acceptable finished goods.
- Report recurring quality issues or machine problems promptly.
- Ensure completed products are properly handled and prepared for the next stage of production.
Qualifications
- Previous manufacturing, machine operating, or plastics experience preferred.
- Injection molding experience is a plus.
- Ability to read and follow work instructions and production specifications.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to identify product defects.
- Ability to complete basic production and quality paperwork.
- Reliable attendance and ability to work effectively as part of a production team.
- Ability to work safely around manufacturing equipment.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
- Ability to frequently bend, twist, reach, and perform repetitive movements.
- Ability to lift and move materials or finished products weighing up to 50–55 lbs.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Ability to perform repetitive hand and arm movements associated with trimming, inspecting, and handling molded parts.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a hands-on, dependable production worker who takes pride in producing quality parts. Someone with prior injection molding or machine operating experience is preferred, but candidates with strong manufacturing experience and the ability to learn press operation may also be considered.
Pay: $15.50 per hour
Work Location: In person