Molding - Thermoforming Process Technician

Overview: Reporting to the Molding Manager, the Thermoforming Process Technician's responsibility is to provide day-to-day technical process support leading to process capability and reliability in the Thermoforming area. The Thermoforming Process Technician will identify and drive CI projects leading to Thermoforming achieving or exceeding its performance targets and drive CI projects to improve product quality, overall manufacturing efficiency and productivity while reducing cost and waste. The Thermoforming Process Technician will also foster a working environment that is fair, equitable and driven to continuously improve.

Machine Start-Up Duties: Successful startup of Extruder, Thermoformer and the rest of the Thermoforming line components. Troubleshoot process to produce quality parts at Standard cycle times and obtain QC part approval. Verify the standard operating conditions to ensure product quality requirements. Document and communicate any changes needed in the standard operating conditions and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and other documentation.

Technical Support: Work collaboratively and strategically with Tool Room and Maintenance to ensure plans are in place for proactive preventive measures that ensure efficiency, minimizing overtime and minimizing machine downtime. Demonstrate a proactive and forward-looking mindset by (1) anticipating possible machine issues and addressing these in a timely manner and (2) considering future planned TF production needs and accounting for any measures to be taken to prepare for future needs. Lead troubleshooting efforts of Thermoforming line quality issues by root cause determination. Change molds and inserts based on Production schedule or as instructed by leadership when necessary. Lead new product launches by determination of machine and process parameters to produce desired results. Assist in determination and verification of machine and process standard operating conditions and Master set-up sheets. Assist in machine and mold upkeep from housekeeping and maintenance standpoints by determining requirements and by participating in the execution of the same. Proactively identify process improvement opportunities to improve safety, quality and efficiency. Proactively engage in and actively participate in CI initiatives and opportunities.

Product Quality: Measure produced parts and ensure compliance to First off and other established quality standard processes. Make necessary process adjustments to ensure parts conform to established standards. Follow Quality procedures and instructions.

Documentation: Calculate and complete the shift attainment figures. Document downtime reasons on the attainment boards. Document shift technical issues in the provided log book and attainment boards. Ensure line inspection reports are completed by both the Thermoforming Operator and Packers. Recommend updates to SOPs and other documentation. Training: Participate in new products training. Provide hands-on training to Thermoforming Operators using SOPs. Teach troubleshooting techniques to Thermoforming Operators. Provide guidance and coaching and escalating to manager where necessary for non-compliance or poor performance. Skills/Experience Required

Educational Requirements: High school diploma required. Community college certificate/diploma from Injection Molding Institutes preferred or equivalent experience.

Minimum Experience/Field: Minimum 3 years' experience in a Thermoforming operations environment. Courses Required: Certificate from plastics training facilities preferred. Computer Skills: Good PC skills including working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications. Additional Education/Experience/Skills: Mechanical aptitude and strong troubleshooting skills. Has previously written SOPs for improvements surrounding Thermoforming processes and quality control. Core Competencies for This Position Ability to anticipate and handle challenging situations effectively, seeking input and involving others when possible Subject matter expert for Thermoforming operations. Consistently uses good judgement while decision making, analyses problems from different angles to seek alternatives before determining best solutions Demonstrates a strong sense of urgency, assuming responsibility without being asked in order to achieve results Outstanding interpersonal and people management skills. Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and implement solutions at a tactical level. Demonstrated strong planning and organizational skills. Thorough knowledge of Lean Manufacturing tools and applications. Polytainers is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Polytainers is committed to diversity and inclusivity in employment and welcomes applications from qualified individuals of diverse backgrounds. Polytainers is also committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities. If you require an accommodation, we will work with you to meet your needs.