Plastic Injection Molding/Automation Technician

Job Overview
The Automation Technician is responsible for the installation, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of automated systems supporting injection molding operations. This role ensures reliable performance of robots, conveyors, vision systems, and auxiliary automation equipment to maximize productivity, quality, and safety.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Automation & Equipment Support

• Install, program, troubleshoot, and maintain robotic systems used in injection molding operations
• Support automation equi8pment including robots, end of arm tooling (EOAT), conveyors, vision systems and sensors
• Interface automation systems with injection molding machines and auxiliary equipment
• Diagnose and correct mechanical, electrical, pneumatic and control systm issues

Programming & Controls

• Modify and optimize robot programs (e.g., pick-and-place, insert molding, part removal)
• Support PLC-based automation systems and basic HMI adjustments
• Assist with I/O mapping, sensor setup, and system integration
• Support cycle time improvements and process optimization

Production & Quality Support

• Respond to automation-related downtime and production issues
• Support mold changes and automation setup during changeovers
• Ensure automation systems meet part quality and safety requirements
• Assist with process validations and trials

Preventive Maintenance & Documentation

• Perform preventive maintenance on automation equipment per schedules
• Maintain accurate documentation including robot programs, backups, and maintenance records
• Support CMMS work orders and continuous improvement initiatives

Safety & Compliance

• Follow OSHA, lockout/tagout (LOTO), and machine safety standards
• Ensure safeguarding, light curtains, and interlocks are functioning correctly
• Support compliance with ISO 9001 / ISO 14001 / IATF 16949 / ISO13486 requirements
• Support automation equipment including robots, end-of-arm tooling (EOAT), conveyors, vision systems, and sensors
• Interface automation systems with injection molding machines and auxiliary equipment
• Diagnose and correct mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and control system issues

Qualifications

• Education
• Technical degree, associate degree, or certification in Automation, Mechatronics, Electrical, or related field (preferred)

Experience

• 2–5 years of experience supporting automation in a plastic injection molding environment
• Experience with industrial robots (e.g., Cartesian, 6-axis, or SCARA)
• Experience integrating automation with injection molding machines

Technical Skills

• Robot programming and troubleshooting
• Basic PLC programming and troubleshooting
• Electrical wiring, schematics, and control panels
• Pneumatics, sensors, and vision systems (preferred)
• EOAT design and setup

Soft Skills

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Good communication and documentation skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Equivalent hands-on experience considered

Join our team to be part of a fast-paced environment where innovation meets precision! We are committed to fostering a collaborative culture that values your skills in plastics processing, automation technology, and manufacturing excellence. This role provides an excellent platform for growth in the plastics industry while contributing to high-quality production standards.

Pay: $32.00 - $37.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) 3% Match
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person