Molding Manager

Job DescriptionAbout the jobJob Title: Molding ManagerLocation: 204 Carolina Drive, Snow Hill, North CarolinaReports To: Director of EngineeringJob SummaryWe are seeking an experienced, hands-on Molding Manager to lead all injection molding operations at our Snow Hill, NC facility. This role is responsible for department performance across all shifts, including production, staffing, process control, mold trials, new mold launches, equipment reliability, scrap reduction, and continuous improvement.The Molding Manager will directly supervise all molding personnel and must be capable of independently driving safety, quality, efficiency, and accountability. Candidates must live near Snow Hill or be willing to relocate.Key ResponsibilitiesDepartment Leadership & Production ManagementDirect and manage all daily operations of the injection molding department across all shifts.Supervise all molding personnel including supervisors, technicians, handlers, and operators.Establish daily production priorities and staffing assignments to meet production schedules.Monitor department output, downtime, scrap, efficiency, and machine utilization.Ensure shift-to-shift continuity through clear communication and production handoff discipline.Process Control & Technical OversightApprove mold trials, process validations, and new mold launch signoffs.Oversee machine setup optimization, startup approvals, and process parameter validation.Ensure molding processes are stable, repeatable, and compliant with quality standards.Lead troubleshooting of molding defects, process instability, and machine inefficiencies.Partner with engineering on tooling improvements and process enhancements.KPI Ownership & Continuous ImprovementOwn departmental KPI performance including:Scrap reduction metricsOEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness)Machine efficiency ratesDowntime reductionRun rate performanceDevelop and implement continuous improvement and cost-reduction strategies.Analyze production data trends and initiate corrective actions to improve performance.Equipment & Preventive Maintenance OversightMaintain responsibility for molding machines, dryers, robotics, grinders, hot runner controllers, and support equipment.Coordinate preventive maintenance schedules with maintenance and engineering teams.Ensure department equipment remains safe, operational, and production-ready.Staffing, Training & Workforce DevelopmentTrain, coach, mentor, and evaluate molding staff performance.Develop technical skill growth among supervisors and technicians.Address personnel issues, performance concerns, and disciplinary matters as needed.Foster teamwork, accountability, and a high-performance department culture.Safety, Quality & ComplianceEnsure a safe and clean working environment in compliance with company policies.Enforce adherence to safety standards, PPE requirements, and machine operating procedures.Maintain department compliance with quality systems, work instructions, and manufacturing procedures.Support audits and quality investigations related to molding operations.QualificationsMinimum 10 years of injection molding experience.Minimum 5 years in a supervisory or management role.Strong knowledge of molding processes, troubleshooting, and process validation.Experience managing high-volume manufacturing operations.Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.Preferred QualificationsAutomotive manufacturing experience preferred.Experience with Arburg molding machines a plus.ERP/MRP system familiarity preferred.Bilingual English/Spanish helpful.Working ConditionsFull-time, on-site in Snow Hill, NC.Standard hours Monday–Friday; additional hours as needed to support all shifts.Must be available for emergency production support when required.BenefitsCompetitive salary and benefits packageLeadership role in growing North Carolina operationDirect impact on plant performance and molding excellence