Set-up Molding Machines The Set-up Molding Machines is responsible for the timely and accurate installation, removal, and configuration of molds and auxiliary equipment. This role ensures that production lines are transitionally efficient and that machines are set to specific process parameters to meet quality standards. You will be responsible for the "first-piece" success of production runs through precise mechanical setup and initial troubleshooting.
Your Responsibilities Will Include:
Mold Installation & Removal: Physically set up and pull molds from presses ranging from 300 to 2,400 tons. Secure molds using clamps, bolts, or magnetic platens.
Technical Configuration: Connect and verify water lines, hydraulic systems, pneumatic lines, and electrical connections (limit switches, hot runner cables).Auxiliary Equipment Setup: Configure and synchronize thermolators (mold heaters), dryers, granulators, conveyors, and robotic end-of-arm tooling (EOAT).Process Initiation: Load correct process parameters into the machine controller based on established setup sheets. Purge barrels and perform initial cycles to ensure smooth operation.
First-Piece Inspection: Coordinate with the Quality Department to verify that the first parts produced meet dimensional and aesthetic specifications before handing the machine over to an Operator.
Maintenance & Safety: Inspect molds for damage or wear during changeovers; perform basic "at-press" maintenance (cleaning, greasing). Ensure all safety gates and E-stops are functional.
Tooling Organization: Maintain the mold storage area, ensuring all tools and components are returned to their proper locations and tagged with their current status.
Attention to Detail: Ability to follow complex setup sheets and "recipe" parameters without deviation.
Physical Requirements:
Must be able to stand or walk for the duration of an 8- to 12-hour shift on concrete floors.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs; must be able to push/pull heavy mold carts and use significant force when tightening mold clamps.
Frequent climbing of ladders or stairs to reach hoppers/dryers; ability to bend, crawl, and reach into tight machine "tie-bar" spaces to connect lines.
High manual dexterity for handling small fittings, bolts, and delicate electrical connectors.
Ability to work in a high-temperature environment (near heated barrels and molds) and around loud machinery.
Required Qualifications
Experience:
25 years of experience in a plastic molding environment, specifically in mold setting or processing. Technical Knowledge: Understanding of hydraulic and pneumatic schematics; basic knowledge of plastic resin behavior and drying requirements. Why Should You Apply? Whirlpool offers full-time employees an excellent wage and benefits package, including Health/Dental/Vision/Prescription Drug Plan, 401K, Life Insurance, Paid Holidays, Paid Time Off, Tuition Reimbursement, and much more. The starting wage is $32.00 per hour + shift premium. Paid time off (PTO) up to 120 hours in the first year (prorated on start date) Benefits on day one (medical, dental vision)
