Process Technician

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.

What You’ll Do

• 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.

What You’ll Bring

• High school diploma or GED required
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a similar role, inside 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.
• 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.