Job Title: Injection Molder
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Reports to: Injection Molding Supervisor
Location: Fontana, CA
About the Company:
IPS Corporation is a global, market-leading provider of solvent cement, adhesives, and specialized plumbing products. Founded in 1954 in Los Angeles, CA, IPS began by producing clear cement for laminating acrylic sheets for aircraft canopies. Today, IPS, with its three operating companies, has various manufacturing plants and distribution centers supporting sales to a diverse set of international markets.
About Weld-On:
Weld-On Adhesives, the largest subsidiary of IPS Corporation, is the pioneer and leading manufacturer of Weld-On solvent cement, primers, and cleaners for PVC, CPVC, ABS, and other plastic piping systems. Weld-On products are globally recognized as premium products for joining plastic pipes and fittings and are used by professional installers worldwide across construction, industrial, irrigation, water treatment, mining, and other applications. Headquartered in California, Weld-On operates state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and China, supported by a worldwide network of sales representatives and distributors.
About the Role:
The Injection Molder is responsible for setting up, operating, troubleshooting, and optimizing injection molding machines and auxiliary equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production. This position plays a critical role in maintaining process stability, reducing downtime, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives within the manufacturing operation.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Set up, start up, and monitor injection molding machines and auxiliary equipment to meet production and quality requirements.
- Perform mold changes, machine adjustments, and process parameter modifications as required.
- Troubleshoot molding defects including flash, short shots, sink marks, warpage, burn marks, and dimensional inconsistencies.
- Optimize processing conditions to improve cycle times, reduce scrap, and maximize machine efficiency.
- Ensure molds, equipment, and tooling are properly maintained and operating effectively.
- Conduct routine machine inspections and identify maintenance needs before equipment failures occur.
- Verify product quality through visual inspections and basic dimensional checks in accordance with specifications.
- Support production operators by providing technical assistance and process guidance.
- Maintain accurate production and process documentation.
- Monitor raw material usage and ensure proper material handling, drying, and storage procedures.
- Collaborate with Quality, Engineering, and Maintenance teams to resolve production and quality issues.
- Follow all safety procedures, including lockout/tagout requirements, PPE guidelines, and company policies.
- Participate in Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
Required Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience in an injection molding manufacturing environment.
- Strong working knowledge of injection molding machines, molds, and auxiliary equipment including dryers, loaders, chillers, conveyors, and robots.
- Experience processing a variety of thermoplastic resins including PP, PE, ABS, PC, Nylon, and similar materials.
- Proven ability to troubleshoot molding defects and optimize machine settings.
- Ability to read and interpret work instructions, technical drawings, and product specifications.
- Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with mold maintenance and minor mold repairs.
- Experience with automated manufacturing equipment and robotics.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis.
- Frequent bending, kneeling, reaching, pushing, and pulling.
- Ability to work in a manufacturing environment exposed to noise, heat, moving machinery, and industrial chemicals.
- Ability to work overtime, weekends, and flexible shifts as business needs require.
Hourly Range: $19.00 - $21.00/hour