Process Technician

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 Process Technician is responsible for performing duties to set up and operate varied sizes and types of molding machines. In addition, is responsible for maintaining the flow and quality of products being produced and maintaining effective communication with other departments.

Essential Duties, Responsibilities, & Authority

• Samples and debugs new molds. Also, sets and records mold parameters and works closely with engineers to resolve any mold issues.
• Sets up molds. Installs knockout pins in the mold, mounts, aligns and connects plastic molding dies on press platens. Ensures that the proper number of clamps are used per mold half and that all machine safety features (e.g., drop bar, safety gates) are properly set. Connects water and air line to mold and where necessary adjusts controls to regulate the mold temperature. Sets machine controls to regulate clamping pressures and speeds. Sets controls for injection speeds and pressures. Sets all machine timers (e.g., curing time, boost time, hold time and open time) to obtain the proper cycles. Changes machine screw when necessary to obtain proper color.
• Cycles-in machine. Examines the sample parts for defects, such as flash, sinks, shorts, splay, cracks, and closed holes, and adjusts machine set up to eliminate defects. Takes sample parts to Quality Assurance for approval.
• Arranges work area and assists in the setup of auxiliary equipment as required. Cleans the entire machine and washes the floor around the machine. All areas must be kept clean and safe.
• Instructs operators on operating procedures and safety hazards as they pertain to each job after it is set up. Maintains a safe working environment to minimize the possibility of an injury.

• Twice during the shift, verifies that all the molding parameters such as pressures, timers, water temperatures and machine heats are properly set. In addition, makes a quality check of the part for any defects. Trouble shoots operating difficulties by adjusting equipment and machine cycles to correct molding problems such as shorts, flash, etc.
• At completion of run, removes mold from press. Sprays mold with rust preventative, disconnects water lines and blows water out of mold. Stores mold in designated storage space. Tags mold with needed mold repair.

• Attends seminars, trade shows, and/or classes to continually develop skills and remain abreast of new developments.
• Learns and uses a working knowledge of Scientific Molding.
• Learns and uses medical molding as necessary.
• Assists set up technicians on problem jobs. Provides technical advice and assistance to Set-Up Technicians.
• Assists with answering bells and setups.
• Fills out all required paperwork (e.g., setup checklists, start-up checklist, process window, SIM book, press logs.)
• Mentors the set-up technicians.
• Optimizes current processes and makes continuous improvements with the shop floor processes.
• Follows Sussex IM’s environmental policies to protect and minimize our impact on the environment.
• Maintains a safe 5S working environment to minimize the possibility of an injury. Always acts in a safe manner and ensures that those around them do not put themselves or others at risk. Reports any unsafe conditions to a manager.
• Performs other related duties and assignments as assigned or required.

Required Education, Credentials, & Certifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred
• Must have completed the Set-Up Technician Apprenticeship Program or have the equivalent work experience. Must have successfully completed Paulsen’s Interactive Video Injection Molding series.

Job Specification

• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in plastic injection molding

• Must be able to work with multiple departments.
• Must have an open mind and willingness to learn.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Basic computer skills including IQMS systems.
• Uses good interpersonal communication techniques to work with subordinates and/or coworkers. Is courteous and helpful when interacting with fellow employees. Helps to create a positive work environment.

• Must have good documentation skills

• Strong material knowledge
• Demonstrated machine knowledge
• Strong processing knowledge
• Advanced set-up knowledge
• Critical thinking skills
• Ability to gather data and think creatively
• Ability to lift to 75 lb. to shoulder height
• Good attendance and punctuality

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