Mold Process Engineer – Entry Level
Metro Plastics Technologies LLC
Location Noblesville, IN
ABOUT METRO PLASTICS TECHNOLOGIES
Metro Plastics Technologies is an industry leader in custom plastic injection molding. With over 50 years in business, Metro Plastics has extensive plastic production capabilities, engineering expertise, and a dedicated on-site tool room and metrology lab supporting operations in a newly built state-of-the-art facility in Noblesville, IN.
POSITION OVERVIEW
This is an entry-level engineering role designed for recent graduates (A.S. or B.S.) who are eager to apply their technical education in a hands-on manufacturing environment. You will work alongside our experienced Process Engineers and Production team to learn, analyze, and optimize injection molding operations from the ground up.
The ideal candidate is analytically minded — someone who enjoys reading data, identifying root causes, and engineering a solution. If you graduated with a technical degree and want to see your problem-solving skills, make a real measurable difference on a production floor, this role is for you.
Join a team where you can:
- Apply statistical and analytical thinking to real production data every day
- Interpret process parameters, blueprints, and quality specifications — then act on them
- Develop troubleshooting skills in a structured, mentored environment
- Build a foundation in plastic injection molding process engineering with a clear path to growth
- Work in a modern, state-of-the-art facility with advanced equipment and metrology capabilities
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Process Analysis & Problem Solving
- Monitor and analyze machine, mold, and material data to identify deviations from standard and determine corrective action
- Troubleshoot machine, mold, and material problems using structured analytical approaches — gather data, form a hypothesis, test, iterate
- Perform running adjustments to maintain maximum production quality and minimize scrap; document findings and outcomes
- Consistently review nonconforming materials and assist in root cause analysis to drive scrap levels to acceptable targets
- Work closely with the Process Engineer to address difficult processing challenges and pursue continuous improvement
Setup & Operations
- Support machine start-ups: install molds in presses and make all required connections, adjustments, and settings per established documentation
- Assist with setup and operation of secondary equipment including sonic welders, thermolators, conveyor belts, drill presses, and gate cutters
- Act as first responder to machine, robot, thermolator, and secondary equipment alarms — assess, escalate, or resolve
- Ensure machines and robots are running at optimum efficiency throughout the shift
Data Interpretation & Documentation
- Interpret specifications, blueprints, and engineering drawings to determine whether parts produced meet defined standards
- Maintain setup documentation and record all machine adjustments during processing for traceability and continuous improvement
- Monitor the production board and production priorities; communicate proactively when schedule changes affect shift operations
- Verify that materials and production paperwork are on hand and aligned with production goals
Team Collaboration & Development
- Collaborate with Operators, Process Engineers, and Quality Technicians to meet quality and throughput standards
- Assist the Process Engineer in training Setup and Material Handling personnel on process, equipment, and safety best practices
- Contribute ideas to improve production methods, working conditions, equipment performance, and team efficiency
- Perform other related duties as required or assigned
EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS
- Associate or Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Plastics Engineering Technology, Industrial Engineering, or a closely related technical field — required
- Recent graduates (0–2 years of experience) strongly encouraged to apply; internship or co-op experience in manufacturing is a plus
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills — you know how to read data and draw a conclusion
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical specifications
- Comfortable in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Self-starter who can work independently once oriented and trained
- Knowledge of or coursework in GD&T, SPC, lean manufacturing, or plastics processing is a plus — not required
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Work is performed in a manufacturing environment
- Employee will stand or walk for the majority of their work hours
- Routine use of hands to handle, feel, and reach; may stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
- Occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs; frequently up to 25 lbs; regularly up to 10 lbs
- Specific vision requirements: close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus
BENEFITS
- Competitive Pay and Flexible Work Schedules
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Company Paid Basic Life and Short-Term Disability
- Employee Paid Voluntary Life and Critical Illness Plans
- PTO, Floating Holiday, and Company Paid Holidays
Equal Opportunity Employer
E-Verify
Drug Testing/ Background Check
DISCLAIMER
This job description is not an exhaustive list of all functions that may be required to perform, additional functions may be required. The organization reserves the right to revise this job description at any time. All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and that, if requested, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.
