Distributor, converter, and manufacturer of non-woven textiles located in McHenry is looking for a Molding Room Manager.

POSITION OVERVIEW

A senior molding room manager oversees all operations within the molding room, ensuring that scientific molding processes are developed and executed properly, new products are introduced smoothly and efficiently, molding tools are designed properly and maintained, and production schedules are met. The manager collaborates closely with product development and manufacturing and provides technical and strategic leadership to improve productivity and product quality.

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field. A degree in mechanical, plastics, manufacturing or industrial engineering is preferred. Advanced certifications in scientific injection molding, mold design or project management are desirable.

EXPERIENCE

• Extensive injection‑molding experience. At least ten years’ experience in plastic injection molding with a strong understanding of materials science, molding technologies and scientific molding principles. Minimum five years in a leadership or management role in a tool room or molding department. Familiarity with IQ, OQ and PQ validation for both equipment and molded parts.
• Insert molding and over‑molding experience. Familiarity with insert‑molding processes and over‑molding techniques. Ability to design and optimize insert‑molding processes that achieve proper adhesion and alignment while minimizing cycle time and ensuring part quality and requirements.
• Demonstrated success in new product development and tooling. Experience leading new product introductions, reviewing and improving mold designs, quoting and purchasing molds and managing mold trials and validation.
• Experience with lean manufacturing and quality systems. Practical knowledge of lean/TPS, SMED, TPM and 6S principles and implementing continuous improvement programs.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Scientific molding expertise. Proficiency in designing and optimizing injection‑molding processes, including process window development, melt rheology, cavity pressure control, cooling system design, hot‑runner and cold‑runner systems, cycle time optimization and resin characterization
• Mold design and analysis. Ability to read and interpret tooling drawings and help guide tool design. Knowledge of tool steels, coating technologies and cavity design. Familiarity with mold‑making machinery (CNC, EDM, die spotting), hot runner systems and cooling systems.
• Machine and automation proficiency. Working knowledge of injection‑molding machines (e.g., LS, Shibaura) and ability to troubleshoot equipment.
• Data analysis and computer skills. ERP systems to manage production orders and standard office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

LEADERSHIP AND SOFT SKILLS

• Strong leadership and communication. Effective communication skills for interacting with cross‑functional teams, senior management; capable of presenting technical information clearly and persuasively.
• Project and resource management. Capable of managing multiple projects, setting priorities, and allocating resources to meet production and development schedules while staying within budget. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to make data‑driven decisions.
• Problem‑solving and analytical thinking. Skilled in identifying root causes, developing alternative solutions and implementing corrective actions. Demonstrates sound judgement when balancing production demands, quality requirements, cost considerations and NPD.

SUMMARY

The molding room manager plays a critical role in ensuring that injection‑molding operations run smoothly and efficiently. By combining technical expertise in scientific molding, tool design and new product development with leadership and project management skills, the manager delivers high‑quality molded products on schedule while driving continuous improvement. This role requires a balance of strategic planning and hands‑on problem‑solving, with a strong commitment to safety, quality and teamwork.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $110,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) 4% Match
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• McHenry, IL 60050 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• McHenry, IL 60050: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In perso