Process Technician - Plastic Mold Injection

Utica, MI

Process Technician – Plastic Injection Molding

Job Type: Contract-to-Hire
Pay: Based on Experience
Schedule: Mon - Thurs 6am - 4:30pm | Overtime as Required

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Process Technician to set up, troubleshoot, and optimize plastic injection molding equipment in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This position requires hands-on injection molding experience, Star robot programming, and the ability to design, build, and troubleshoot end-of-arm tooling.

Key Responsibilities

Set up, start, and troubleshoot injection molding machines, molds, and auxiliary equipment.
Monitor and adjust process parameters, including temperatures, pressures, cycle times, and material conditions.
Independently program, operate, and troubleshoot Star robots, including motion sequences, positioning, alarms, and machine interfaces.
Design, build, modify, and troubleshoot end-of-arm tooling, including grippers, vacuum systems, sensors, and pneumatic components.
Diagnose molding defects, identify root causes, and make controlled process adjustments.
Perform or assist with mold changes, equipment setups, and production startups.
Monitor part quality, scrap rates, cycle times, and equipment performance.
Support mold trials, process improvements, and automation integration.
Maintain accurate setup sheets, process records, and robot programming documentation.
Follow all safety procedures, including Lockout/Tagout and machine guarding requirements.
Collaborate with production, quality, maintenance, and tooling departments to resolve issues and minimize downtime.

Required Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent.
Minimum 3 years of plastic injection molding experience, including machine setup and process troubleshooting, or equivalent training and experience.
Hands-on Star robot programming and troubleshooting experience required.
Experience designing, building, and modifying end-of-arm tooling required.
Knowledge of injection molding processes, thermoplastics, material drying, and mold cooling.
Experience troubleshooting molding defects and auxiliary equipment, including dryers, loaders, chillers, and temperature controllers.
Understanding of robot interfaces, sensors, pneumatics, and vacuum systems.
Ability to read setup sheets, technical drawings, and pneumatic diagrams.
Experience using calipers, micrometers, and other inspection equipment.
Strong troubleshooting, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Scientific molding training or experience with additional robot brands.
Automotive manufacturing, process validation, mold trials, or continuous improvement experience.

Physical Requirements: Ability to stand, walk, bend, and work around manufacturing equipment, heat, and noise. Overtime may be required.

Linked, LLC is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We celebrate and embrace differences and are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. Our goal is to ensure that every employee and applicant is treated with respect and fairness. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates and are committed to making reasonable accommodations to support diverse needs throughout the hiring process. Linked, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is dedicated to fostering a work environment where everyone can thrive.