Job Description

Mold Setup Technician

Department: Manufacturing & Distribution - General Labor

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Ashtabula, OH

Reporting To: James Long

The Mold Set-Up Technician is responsible for setting up molds into assigned. This role ensures all molding machines are correctly set up and optimized for production runs in accordance with manufacturing specifications, safety standards, and quality requirements. The technician will collaborate with production, engineering, maintenance, and quality teams to troubleshoot molding issues, perform changeovers efficiently, and support continuous improvement initiatives. Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and install molds into compression, transfer, or injection molding machines according to production schedules and specifications.
• Verify proper mold alignment, clamping, and function before releasing equipment for production use.
• Perform machine changeovers and assist with tooling and die changes as needed.
• Ensure all materials, inserts, and equipment are staged and ready for efficient operation.
• Start-up machines and verify proper cycle settings, temperatures, pressures, and cure times.
• Work with maintenance to diagnose and correct mechanical or hydraulic issues related to molds or machines.
• Troubleshoot molding presses to identify and resolve mechanical, hydraulic, or process-related issues, ensuring optimal run efficiency and minimal downtime.
• Perform basic mold and press maintenance tasks (cleaning platens, inspecting for damage, etc.).
• Read and interpret setup sheets and work instructions.
• Maintain accurate set-up documentation and update logs as required.
• Support continuous improvement efforts in productivity, quality, and safety.
• Follow all plant safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical or vocational training preferred.
• 2+ years of experience in rubber molding or plastics industry preferred.
• Solid understanding of molding equipment, tools, and mechanical systems.
• Ability to read technical drawings and setup instructions.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain one.
• Basic computer skills for documentation and setup data entry.

Job Benefits

• Health & Dental
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) with 100% match up to 4%
• STD & LTD
• Variety of Additional Supplemental Insurances
• Company Paid Holidays, Vacation & PTO