Molding Manager - Plastic Injection Molding

We are seeking an experienced Molding Manager to lead the injection molding operations at our Kansas City facility. This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring high-quality production of plastic components for the automotive industry. You will manage a team of supervisors, technicians, and operators, driving excellence in quality, safety, and performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day operations of the injection molding department, including scheduling, staffing, process optimization, and troubleshooting
• Ensure production targets are consistently met while maintaining high standards of quality, efficiency, and safety
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and root cause problem-solving tools
• Collaborate with quality, engineering, maintenance, and logistics to ensure smooth operations and on-time delivery
• Establish and maintain molding process parameters, documentation, and best practices for part consistency
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and customer-specific automotive quality requirements
• Train, coach, and develop molding team members, including supervisors and technicians
• Support the launch of new molds, materials, and products, ensuring seamless transition into production
• Coordinate with the tool room to implement preventive and corrective mold maintenance programs
• Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs): OEE, cycle time, downtime, scrap, etc.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Plastics Technology, or Industrial Management, or equivalent hands-on experience
• 5+ years of experience in injection molding, including 2+ years in a supervisory or leadership role
• Deep understanding of plastic molding processes, mold design, and automotive-grade thermoplastics
• Knowledge of automotive quality standards: APQP, PPAP, SPC, FMEA
• Familiarity with injection molding machines (e.g., Engel, Arburg, KraussMaffei)
• Strong leadership and team-building skills
• Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills
• Ability to work flexible hours in a fast-paced, high-volume environment

Preferred

• RJG/Scientific Molding certification
• Experience with automation and robotics in injection molding
• Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Join a high-performing team in a critical manufacturing leadership role. If you're a results-driven molding expert looking for your next challenge in the automotive space, we want to hear from you.