Job Title: Molding Manager

Location: Kansas City, MO

Reports to: Plant Manager / Operations Manager
Industry: Automotive – Plastic Injection Molding

Position Summary:

The Molding Manager is responsible for overseeing all operations related to the injection molding department, ensuring efficient production of high-quality automotive plastic components. This role leads a team of supervisors, technicians, and operators, driving performance through best practices in molding, maintenance, quality, and lean manufacturing. The Molding Manager ensures that all production targets, safety standards, and customer quality requirements are consistently met.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage all aspects of the molding department including production scheduling, staffing, troubleshooting, and process optimization.
• Ensure production meets or exceeds established quality and efficiency standards while minimizing downtime and scrap.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives using lean manufacturing, 5S, and root cause problem-solving methodologies.
• Collaborate with quality, maintenance, engineering, and logistics departments to support smooth operations and timely product delivery.
• Develop and maintain molding process parameters, set-up documentation, and best practices for consistent part quality.
• Ensure compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and customer-specific requirements.
• Lead training and development of molding technicians, supervisors, and operators.
• Support the launch of new products, molds, and materials, ensuring smooth transitions from engineering to production.
• Maintain mold maintenance and preventive maintenance programs in coordination with the tool room.
• Monitor KPIs (OEE, scrap rate, cycle time, downtime) and provide regular performance reports to senior management.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Plastics Technology, Industrial Management, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in injection molding, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Strong understanding of plastic molding processes, mold design, and material characteristics (including thermoplastics used in automotive).
• Working knowledge of automotive quality standards, including APQP, PPAP, SPC, and FMEA.
• Hands-on experience with injection molding machines (brands such as Engel, Arburg, KraussMaffei, or similar preferred).
• Proven leadership and team-building skills.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and organizational abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours as required in a high-volume manufacturing environment.

Preferred:

• Scientific Molding Certification (RJG or similar)
• Experience with automation and robotics in molding operations
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus