Injection Moulding Setter / Skilled Operator

About this role

Reports To:

Production Manager / Shift Team Leader

Job Purpose

To set, operate, maintain, and optimise injection moulding machines and associated equipment to ensure the safe, efficient, and consistent production of high-quality moulded products. The role involves carrying out tool changes, machine set-ups, fault finding, routine maintenance, quality inspections, and ensuring compliance with all company procedures and relevant UK regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Machine Setting and Operation
• Set up and operate injection moulding machines to production specifications.
• Perform mould/tool changes safely and efficiently.
• Start-up, shut-down, and monitor production runs.
• Optimise machine settings to achieve maximum productivity and quality.
• Adjust process parameters as required to maintain product conformity.
• Ensure production targets are achieved while minimising waste and downtime.
• Tool Changing and Maintenance
• Carry out mould and tool changes in accordance with company procedures.
• Inspect moulds, tools, and associated equipment before and after use.
• Conduct routine servicing and preventative maintenance on moulding machines and ancillary equipment.
• Assist with mould maintenance and minor repairs.
• Ensure all tooling is stored, maintained, and recorded correctly.
• Quality Control
• Perform first-off, in-process, and final quality inspections.
• Use measuring equipment including calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other inspection tools.
• Identify and report defects, non-conformances, and quality concerns.
• Maintain accurate production and quality records.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to improve product quality.
• Troubleshooting and Problem Solving
• Diagnose and resolve machine, tooling, and process-related issues.
• Investigate moulding defects such as flash, sink marks, short shots, burn marks, warpage, and contamination.
• Implement corrective actions to minimise downtime.
• Escalate complex technical issues when required.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective action processes.
• Health, Safety and Compliance
• Operate all machinery in accordance with Health and Safety regulations.
• Comply with company policies, risk assessments, and safe systems of work.
• Follow Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures during maintenance and tool changes.
• Ensure compliance with ISO standards and customer quality requirements where applicable.
• Maintain a clean and organised working environment in accordance with 5S principles.
• Report hazards, accidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions immediately.
• Documentation and Reporting
• Complete production documentation accurately and on time.
• Record machine settings, downtime, maintenance activities, and quality checks.
• Support production planning and shift handovers through effective communication.
• Participate in audits and compliance inspections as required.
• Skills and Experience
• Essential
• Proven experience as an Injection Moulding Setter or Skilled Operator.
• Strong understanding of injection moulding processes and machine operation.
• Experience carrying out mould/tool changes.
• Knowledge of process optimisation and troubleshooting techniques.
• Ability to read technical drawings and manufacturing documentation.
• Experience using measuring and inspection equipment.
• Good understanding of Health & Safety requirements within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Desirable
• Experience with robotic handling systems and ancillary equipment.
• Knowledge of scientific moulding principles.
• Experience working within ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001 environments.
• Forklift Licence.
• Overhead Crane or Slinging and Lifting certification.
• Mechanical or engineering qualification (NVQ Level 3 or equivalent).
• Personal Attributes
• Reliable and self-motivated.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Flexible and willing to work shifts when required.
• Positive attitude towards continuous improvement.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
• Production efficiency and output.
• Machine uptime and utilisation.
• Scrap and waste reduction.
• Quality performance and defect rates.
• Tool change completion times.
• Compliance with safety and quality procedures.
• Housekeeping and audit performance.
• Working Conditions
• Manufacturing and production environment.
• Regular lifting and handling of moulds and equipment in accordance with safe working practices.
• PPE required at all times.
• Shift work and overtime may be required to meet business demands.
• Salary
• Competitive salary dependent on skills, experience, and qualifications. Overtime and shift to be agreed, Company Pension and GBS bonus scheme.