Process Technician

Summary

The Process Technician is responsible for developing, optimizing, and sustaining manufacturing processes for automotive interior components within a high-tech soft trim and injection molding facility. This role bridges production, maintenance, and quality by ensuring machines, molds, and processes operate at peak efficiency to produce high-quality parts that meet automotive standards. The Process Technician plays a critical role in process setup, troubleshooting, continuous improvement, operator training, and supporting plant startup and ramp-up activities.

Required Job Duties

• Set up, start, and adjust injection molding and soft trim manufacturing processes to meet production and quality requirements.

• Establish, monitor, and maintain process parameters to ensure consistent part quality and cycle efficiency.

• Troubleshoot process, material, and equipment issues; implement corrective actions to minimize scrap and downtime.

• Perform and support mold changes, machine setups, and tooling adjustments.

• Own Efficiency tracking and reporting metrics at the floor-level

• Perform routine maintenance tasks including machine lubrication, filter changes, minor repairs, and general upkeep of equipment and tooling to ensure operational readiness.

• Conduct basic mechanical repairs and handyman-type tasks (e.g., replacing worn components, adjusting fixtures, tightening fittings) to support uninterrupted production.

• Analyze production data (scrap rates, cycle times, downtime) to identify and implement process improvements.

• Investigate and resolve quality defects by performing root cause analysis and implementing corrective and preventive actions, working closely with quality teams to disposition nonconforming parts.

• Support first-article inspections, in-process quality checks, and process capability studies to maintain dimensional and cosmetic standards.

• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions.

• Collaborate with maintenance to resolve equipment issues and improve reliability.

• Ensure processes comply with automotive quality standards (IATF 16949, ISO 9001).

• Develop and maintain process documentation, including setup sheets, work instructions, and parameter controls.

• Support new product launches, including process validation and PPAP/APQP activities.

• Train and mentor production operators on process control, setup procedures, quality inspection methods, and troubleshooting basics; provide hands-on coaching at the machine level to build operator capability and reduce dependency on engineering support.

• Assess operator skill gaps and provide refresher training when process deviations or recurring errors are identified.

• Maintain accurate records of process changes, trials, and production performance.

• Follow all safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized work environment.Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in injection molding and/or automotive soft trim manufacturing.

• Demonstrated experience in process setup, troubleshooting, and optimization in a production environment.

• Ability to work required shifts, overtime, and maintain reliable attendance.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a manufacturing environment.Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of plastic materials, molding processes, and soft trim manufacturing techniques (e.g., lamination, edge folding).

• Ability to set and adjust process parameters for injection molding equipment.

• Strong troubleshooting skills across mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and basic electrical systems.

• Hands-on mechanical aptitude with the ability to perform minor equipment repairs, component replacements, and general facility/equipment upkeep.

• Understanding of process control methods and data analysis (e.g., scrap, cycle time, efficiency).

• Familiarity with automotive quality systems (IATF 16949, PPAP, APQP) and quality tools such as 8D, 5-Why, and fishbone/Ishikawa diagrams.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, work instructions, and technical documents.

• Demonstrated ability to train and coach production operators with patience, clarity, and technical depth.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety standards.

• Ability to work independently and collaborate with cross-functional teams.

• Effective verbal and written communication skills. Physical Requirements:

• This position requires a moderate to high degree of standing, walking, stooping, crouching, bending or kneeling, close eye work, reaching, pulling or pushing. Good hand dexterity, hearing, and vision are considered essential. Moderate to Steady lifting of up to 50lbs. required. Requires wearing personal protective equipment.

You should be proficient in:

• Injection Molding Experience