Department: Manufacturing / Production
Reports To: Production manager/Shift Team leader
Job Purpose
The Injection Moulding Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of injection moulding machines and associated equipment, ensuring the production of high-quality plastic components in accordance with customer specifications, production schedules, and company quality standards. The role includes machine operation, quality inspection, material handling, process monitoring, basic machine maintenance, and compliance with health, safety, and environmental requirements.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Production Operations
- Operate injection moulding machines safely and efficiently.
- Ensure products are manufactured to the required quality standards and production targets.
- Monitor machine performance and cycle times throughout production runs.
- Carry out start-up and shut-down procedures in accordance with company procedures.
- Remove moulded products from machines and undertake any secondary operations as required.
- Pack, label, and prepare finished products for storage or dispatch.
- Maintain production output while minimising waste and downtime.
Quality Control
- Conduct visual inspections of moulded products throughout production.
- Carry out dimensional checks using measuring equipment where required.
- Identify and segregate non-conforming products.
- Report quality issues immediately to the Setter, Technician, or Supervisor.
- Complete quality documentation and inspection records accurately.
- Ensure compliance with customer specifications and quality standards.
Material Handling
- Load and replenish raw materials and packaging materials.
- Monitor material usage and report shortages.
- Ensure correct material identification and traceability at all times.
- Handle materials and finished products safely to prevent contamination or damage.
Process Monitoring
- Monitor machine operation and report any abnormalities.
- Observe moulding conditions and identify common moulding defects, including:
- Flash
- Short shots
- Sink marks
- Burn marks
- Warpage
- Flow lines
- Surface blemishes
- Contamination
- Escalate process issues promptly to the appropriate personnel.
Equipment Care and Maintenance
- Perform routine operator maintenance and cleaning tasks.
- Assist with machine cleaning during product changes.
- Support mould changes and machine set-ups when required.
- Ensure machines and ancillary equipment are kept clean and operational.
- Report equipment faults or maintenance requirements immediately.
Health, Safety and Environmental Compliance
- Comply with all Health and Safety at Work Act requirements.
- Follow company policies, risk assessments, and safe systems of work.
- Wear and maintain appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Report accidents, incidents, hazards, and near misses promptly.
- Maintain safe working practices at all times.
- Support environmental and waste management procedures.
- Ensure work areas remain clean, organised, and free from hazards.
Housekeeping and Continuous Improvement
- Maintain high housekeeping standards in accordance with 5S principles.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives aimed at improving quality, efficiency, and safety.
- Contribute ideas to reduce waste and improve productivity.
- Participate in team meetings and training activities.
Documentation and Record Keeping
- Complete production records accurately and on time.
- Record production output, downtime, quality checks, and scrap levels.
- Ensure all paperwork and electronic records are maintained correctly.
- Participate in internal audits and compliance inspections when required.
Skills and Experience
Essential
- Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
- Ability to follow work instructions and production procedures.
- Good attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Strong understanding of workplace health and safety.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet production targets.
Desirable
- Previous experience operating injection moulding machines.
- Experience within plastics manufacturing.
- Knowledge of plastic materials and moulding processes.
- Experience using measuring and inspection equipment.
- Understanding of Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement principles.
Personal Attributes
- Reliable and punctual.
- Quality focused.
- Safety conscious.
- Positive and proactive attitude.
- Flexible and adaptable.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Qualifications
Essential
- Good standard of secondary education, including English and Mathematics.
Desirable
- NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in Manufacturing Operations.
- Forklift Truck Licence.
- Health and Safety qualification or training.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Production output against target.
- Product quality and defect rates.
- Scrap and waste reduction.
- Machine uptime and efficiency.
- Compliance with health and safety requirements.
- Attendance and punctuality.
- Housekeeping and audit results.
Working Conditions
- Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, heat, and plastic materials.
- Standing for extended periods.
- Manual handling duties in line with company procedures.
- PPE required at all times.
- Shift work, overtime, and weekend working may be required.
Salary
Competitive salary based on experience, qualifications, and shift pattern, with opportunities for overtime and development within the business package includes Company pension and GBS bonus scheme.
