Machine Operator

Molding Machine Operator 1st Shift

The Molding Machine Operator supports daily molding and casting operations by setting up molds, operating molding equipment, and ensuring all parts meet defined quality standards. This role suits individuals with hands-on experience in injection molding, ceramic casting, or similar molding processes who understand basic mold setup, can identify and resolve common defects, and can perform routine mold and die maintenance to keep production running smoothly on a fast-paced 1st shift schedule.

Responsibilities

• Set up molds, dies, and tooling for injection molding, ceramic casting, or similar molding production runs.
• Operate molding machines safely and efficiently while monitoring cycle times and adjusting basic process parameters as needed.
• Identify and troubleshoot common molding issues such as short shots, flashing, incomplete fill, and surface defects.
• Perform routine mold and die maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and minor mechanical adjustments to ensure reliable operation.
• Inspect molded parts for dimensional accuracy, surface quality, and overall consistency against production specifications.
• Read and follow work instructions, production specifications, and basic technical drawings to ensure correct setup and output.
• Document production runs, mold changes, and process adjustments accurately for traceability and continuous improvement.
• Communicate equipment issues, material concerns, and quality deviations promptly to supervisors or maintenance teams.
• Support changeovers between molds or product types to minimize downtime and maintain production flow.
• Work collaboratively in a structured, team-oriented environment to meet production targets and uphold safety standards.

Essential Skills

• Experience in injection molding, ceramic casting, or similar molding processes.
• Familiarity with mold setup, alignment, clamping procedures, and changeovers.
• Ability to recognize and troubleshoot molding defects such as short shots, flashing, and incomplete fill.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort performing minor mold and die maintenance tasks.
• Ability to read and interpret work instructions, production specifications, and basic technical drawings.
• Strong attention to detail and a consistent commitment to producing high-quality parts.
• Ability to operate molding machines and related production line equipment safely and efficiently.
• Capability to lift 3050 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks in a fast-paced production environment.
• Comfort working with polymer molding processes, including blow molding, injection molding, and extrusion where applicable.
• Reliability in following established safety procedures and maintaining a clean, organized workstation.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Hands-on experience operating molding machines, blow molding equipment, or extrusion lines.
• Experience plastic molding, blow molding, or similar high-volume manufacturing environments.
• Experience performing changeovers and adjusting equipment settings to support different molds or products.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude for working with hydraulic, pneumatic, and mechanical production equipment.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a structured, process-driven manufacturing setting.
• Strong communication skills to clearly report issues and collaborate with production and maintenance personnel.

Why Work Here?

This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the production of high-performance polymer and porcelain components that support critical electrical transmission and distribution infrastructure across the country. The facility emphasizes safety, consistency, and continuous improvement, combining advanced materials engineering with strict quality and testing standards. Team members work in a structured, team-oriented environment with clearly defined processes and expectations, and benefit from a consistent full-time schedule with opportunities for overtime based on production demand. The organization values reliability, craftsmanship, and a strong commitment to quality in every stage of manufacturing.

Work Environment

This is a 1st shift position, working Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with a consistent full-time schedule and potential overtime depending on production needs. The role is based in a non-climate-controlled production facility where temperatures can become very hot during the summer months. The environment is fast-paced and hands-on, with polymer molding and hydraulic/pneumatic crimping equipment in regular use. Employees work at defined workstations within a structured, team-oriented setting that follows established safety procedures. Team members are allowed to keep water at their workstation to stay hydrated throughout the shift, and the work involves regular physical activity, including lifting and handling materials.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Virginia Beach, VA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $17.00 - $17.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Virginia Beach, VA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 6, 2026.