Job Description

Injection Molding Machine Operator

Location: Hoffman Estates, IL Company: Steven Plastics Inc.

Steven Plastics Inc. is an established manufacturer specializing in precision injection molding and custom plastic components. With decades of expertise, we deliver high-quality products across diverse industries including automotive, consumer goods, and industrial applications. We take pride in our technical excellence, ensuring quality parts are received by our customers and working as a team to ensure success for our customers and every member of the Steven Plastics Team.

Position Summary

The Injection Molding Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and supporting the setup of injection molding equipment to ensure efficient production of quality parts. This role requires mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and hands-on experience with injection molding machinery and materials. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of molding processes, troubleshooting techniques, and quality standards in a manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently operate, monitor, and adjust injection molding machines (electric and hydraulic) to maintain consistent part quality and production efficiency.
• Monitor and record cycle times, pressures, temperatures, and other process parameters to ensure production remains within established specifications.
• Perform visual and dimensional inspections to verify parts meet all quality standards and customer requirements. Maintain accurate production and inspection documentation.
• Assist in mold setup, machine adjustments, and color/material changeovers. Ensure proper installation and safe operation of tooling and auxiliary equipment.
• Identify and correct minor process or mechanical issues, such as flash, short shots, burns, or splay. Escalate more complex issues to the process technician or maintenance team.
• Load, mix, and prepare plastic resins, additives, and colorants. Ensure correct drying times and maintain lot traceability.
• Support preventive maintenance by cleaning molds, machines, and auxiliary systems. Report potential mechanical or process issues.
• Adhere to all safety and quality procedures, including PPE use, lockout/tagout, and proper housekeeping standards.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical or vocational training in plastics, manufacturing, or mechanical systems preferred.
• 12 years of experience in injection molding operations or plastics processing.
• Working knowledge of molding machine controls and auxiliary equipment (dryers, loaders, thermolators, chillers, etc.).
• Ability to read and interpret part prints, setup sheets, and process documentation.
• Familiarity with molding defects and root-cause troubleshooting.
• Proficiency with basic measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Strong mechanical aptitude, communication skills, and attention to detail.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands on experience with TOYO, Engel or similar injection molding machines.
• Understanding of scientific molding principles and process optimization.
• Experience working under ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Familiarity with engineering-grade resins (ABS, PC, Nylon, Silicone, etc.).
• Ability to adjust decoupled molding parameters (injection speed, pressure, cushion, hold time).
• Basic experience with robot interface and part handling automation.
• Forklift handling certification.

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