Process Technician – Injection & Compression Molding (Fiberglass Composites)

Location: Rochester Hills, Michigan

Salary: $80,000 – $95,000

Shift: Salaried Position

Typical hours are split between 1st and 2nd shift to support production, approximately 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM, as required.

Overview

We are looking for an experienced Process Technician to support injection and compression molding operations within a fiberglass composites manufacturing environment.

This hands-on role is responsible for developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting molding processes to ensure consistent product quality, maximize production efficiency, and minimize downtime. You'll work closely with Production, Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance teams to support new product launches and drive continuous process improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Start up, optimize, and troubleshoot injection and compression molding processes following mold changes
• Establish and maintain validated process parameters including temperature, pressure, clamp force, cure times, and cooling cycles
• Diagnose and resolve process, machine, tooling, and material issues to minimize downtime and scrap
• Identify and correct molding defects including flash, short shots, warpage, voids, surface imperfections, and incomplete cure
• Monitor production processes and make adjustments to maintain quality and efficiency
• Develop and maintain process documentation, setup sheets, and operating standards
• Support mold trials, process validations, and new product introductions
• Train production operators on established processing methods and best practices
• Work closely with Production, Engineering, Maintenance, and Quality teams to improve manufacturing performance
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing cycle times, improving first-pass yield, and increasing Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)
• Maintain compliance with all safety, quality, and environmental standards

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Technical training in plastics, composites, or manufacturing preferred
• 3–5 years of experience with injection and/or compression molding processes
• Strong knowledge of process optimization and troubleshooting
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, work instructions, and quality specifications
• Strong mechanical aptitude and analytical problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills

Preferred Experience

• Experience processing fiberglass-reinforced thermoset or thermoplastic composite materials
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Statistical Process Control (SPC), and Scientific Molding principles
• Experience supporting new product launches and manufacturing process improvements

What We're Looking For

We're looking for a hands-on Process Technician who enjoys solving technical challenges and improving manufacturing performance. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working independently, taking ownership of molding processes, and contributing to a collaborative production environment where quality, safety, and continuous improvement are top priorities.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary of $80,000 – $95,000, depending on experience
• First and second shift support schedule
• Opportunity to work with advanced composite manufacturing processes
• Stable manufacturing environment with opportunities for career growth and priorities in a fast-paced environment.