Youth Apprentice

Role details

At Sussex IM, our people are everything. We believe that a strong culture rooted in trust, accountability, and teamwork is the foundation for long-term success. That’s why we invest in our employees with hands-on training, advancement opportunities, and a work environment that values safety, integrity, and open communication.

We’re proud to be a plastic injection molding company where people come to build careers, not just punch a clock.

If you wish to submit your resume for any of these openings, please email: [email protected]

Summary of Position

The Youth Apprentice is a high school junior or senior enrolled in the Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship (YA) program who works at Sussex IM while completing related classroom instruction at school. Under the direction of an assigned Workplace Mentor, the apprentice learns the fundamentals of plastic injection molding and develops hands-on skills in one of the following track areas: Quality, Engineering, Production, Toolroom, or Automation. The program combines on-the-job learning, safety training, and mentoring to prepare the apprentice for a future career in manufacturing. All duties, equipment use, and work assignments are subject to Wisconsin and federal child labor restrictions.

The Youth Apprentice is a learning-focused position designed to provide meaningful exposure to manufacturing careers through supervised, hands-on experience. Apprentices are not expected to independently perform the full responsibilities of a regular position.

Essential Duties, Responsibilities, & Authority

• Learns and follows all Sussex IM safety rules, procedures, and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
• Learns the basics of plastic injection molding, including plastic materials, molds, molding machines, and auxiliary equipment.
• Works alongside the Workplace Mentor and assigned trainers. Performs tasks only after being trained and only within the limits allowed for youth apprentices under state and federal child labor laws.
• Completes the competencies on the Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship skill standards checklist for the assigned pathway and takes part in progress reviews with the Workplace Mentor, school staff, and parent/guardian.
• Reads and follows work instructions, quality standards, and procedures.
• Takes part in continuous improvement activities and shares ideas for making processes safer, simpler, and more efficient.
• Communicates with the Workplace Mentor about schedule, school commitments, questions, and progress.
• Follows Sussex IM’s environmental policies to protect and minimize our impact on the environment.
• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe 5S working environment. Demonstrates safe work practices and promptly reports unsafe conditions to the Workplace Mentor.
• Performs other related duties and assignments as assigned and appropriate for a youth apprentice.

Track-Specific Duties

• Quality: Assists Quality Assurance with first piece and in-process inspections. Learns to read blueprints and use measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, pin gauges, and vision/CMM equipment. Learns to identify common molding defects (e.g., flash, shorts) and records inspection data.
• Engineering: Supports engineers with new mold sampling, documentation, and project tasks. Learns basic CAD, part and mold design concepts, data collection, and process documentation. Helps with continuous improvement and cost-reduction projects.
• Production: Learns mold setups and changeovers alongside Set-Up and Process Technicians. Learns to monitor machine parameters, check parts for defects, and complete setup checklists and press logs. Receives an introduction to Scientific Molding.
• Toolroom: Assists toolmakers with mold maintenance, cleaning, and repair. Learns to use manual machine equipment and tools, and precision measuring instruments, and is introduced to CNC and EDM operations.
• Automation: Supports the setup and maintenance of robots, end-of-arm tooling, conveyors, and other automated equipment. Learns the basics of robot programming, sensors, pneumatics, and electrical safety.

Required Education, Credentials, & Certifications

• Must be a current high school junior or senior in good academic standing.
• Accepted into and actively enrolled in the Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship program through an eligible participating school district.
• Must meet age requirements for the assigned work under state and federal child labor laws.

Job Specification

• Part-time position scheduled around the student’s school schedule; additional hours may be available during the summer.
• Apprentices must complete a minimum of 450 work hours within the timeframe established by the Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship program.
• Must be able to work with a Workplace Mentor and with multiple people.
• Must have an open mind and willingness to learn.
• Interest in manufacturing, technology, or a skilled trades career.
• All work assignments and equipment operation must comply with applicable Wisconsin and federal child labor laws. Apprentices may only perform duties permitted for their age and program classification and after receiving appropriate training and supervision.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Basic math skills and computer skills, with willingness to learn company systems.
• Mechanical aptitude and an interest in how things work.
• Attention to detail and good documentation skills.
• Uses good interpersonal communication techniques to work with coworkers. Is courteous and helpful when interacting with fellow employees. Helps to create a positive work environment.
• Ability to follow instructions and safety procedures.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to stand for extended periods. Occasionally lifting up to 50 lbs. may be required with assistance or lifting devices available as appropriate, and with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Good attendance and punctuality, both at school and at work.

What guides us every day

• How Can I Help?
• Treat Everyone Like Family
• Work Hard, Play Hard, Laugh Hard
• If We Can, We Will… and Then Some
• Own the Outcome, Share the Credit
• We’ll Figure It Out

Competitive Benefits for Full-Time Employees

Sussex IM offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports the health, well-being, and financial security of our team members.

Health & Wellness

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Onsite Aurora Clinic
• Health club reimbursement
• Camp SIM program
• Zoo pass access

Financial & Retirement

• 401(k) with company match
• Profit sharing
• Bonus plans
• Tuition reimbursement

Time Off & Recognition

• 11 paid holidays
• Paid vacation
• Length of service recognition
• Core Value program

Community & Culture

• Company picnic and events
• Employee meals
• Supportive, cross-functional teams