Soft Trim and Plastics Process Optimization Technician

Do these questions describe you?

• Do you thrive on dialing in injection molding parameters until quality and cycle time lock into control?
• Can you spot a root cause fast—material, mold, machine, method—and drive corrective and preventive actions?
• Are you comfortable switching from a mold change to a lamination tweak to a quick filter swap, all before first-article approval?
• Do you enjoy coaching operators and elevating line performance with data-driven improvements?

What you’ll do

• Set up, start, and adjust injection molding and soft trim processes for automotive interior parts.
• Define, monitor, and maintain parameters for consistent part quality and efficient cycles.
• Troubleshoot process, material, and equipment issues to reduce scrap and downtime.
• Perform mold changes, machine setups, and tooling adjustments to stabilize production.
• Own floor-level efficiency tracking and reporting (scrap, cycle, downtime, throughput).
• Complete routine maintenance (lubrication, filter changes), minor repairs, and general equipment/tooling upkeep.
• Handle basic mechanical repairs and handyman-type tasks to keep production moving.
• Analyze production data to pinpoint improvement opportunities.
• Resolve quality defects with root cause analysis; implement CAPAs with Quality, including disposition of nonconforming parts.
• Support first-article inspections, in-process checks, and process capability studies.
• Partner with Maintenance to improve equipment reliability.
• Ensure compliance with automotive standards (IATF 16949, ISO 9001).
• Author and update setup sheets, work instructions, and parameter controls.
• Support launches, process validation, and PPAP/APQP activities during plant startup and ramp-up.
• Train and mentor operators on process control, setup, inspection, and troubleshooting; provide hands-on coaching at the machine.
• Identify operator skill gaps and deliver refresher training when needed.
• Document process changes, trials, and performance trends.
• Follow safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized workspace.

Must-haves

• High school diploma or GED.
• 3+ years in injection molding and/or automotive soft trim manufacturing.
• Hands-on experience with process setup, troubleshooting, and optimization.
• Willingness to work required shifts and overtime with reliable attendance.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a manufacturing environment.

Skills that set you apart

• Expertise in plastics processing and soft trim techniques (lamination, edge folding).
• Ability to set and adjust parameters on molding equipment.
• Strong mechanical/hydraulic/pneumatic troubleshooting and basic electrical know‑how.
• Mechanical aptitude for minor repairs, component replacements, and general equipment/facility upkeep.
• Process control and data analysis fluency (scrap, cycle time, efficiency).
• Working knowledge of IATF 16949, PPAP, APQP; use of 8D, 5‑Why, fishbone/Ishikawa.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings and technical documents.
• Clear, patient trainer and coach with strong communication skills.
• Detail-focused, safety- and quality-minded; collaborative and self-directed.

Physical demands

• Regular standing, walking, stooping, crouching, bending or kneeling, close eye work, reaching, pulling or pushing.
• Good hand dexterity, hearing, and vision are essential.
• Lift up to 50 lbs; wear required personal protective equipment.