5 Different Positions in the Realm of Plastics – Part II

In Part I, we shared three of five different positions in the realm of plastics. In Part II, we will discuss two additional positions: Plastics Mold Setter and Quality Inspector – Plastics. You’ll discover that the career potential in plastics is far-reaching and may be your next best career choice.

4. Plastic Mold Setter

Plastic mold setters are responsible for inspecting, installing, and removing plastic injection molds on molding machines. They also ensure proper alignment, clamping, and connections during mold changes, and accompany all procedures with proper documentation. They are responsible for preparing machines for production and troubleshooting any difficulties that arise during the setup phase, ensuring efficient operation throughout the shift.

Hard Skills

• Candidates should be mechanically inclined and capable of working independently.
• They must have strong reading and comprehension skills that allow them to follow instructions and set up sheets.
• They must be safety-conscious and organized to maintain the efficiency and safety of their work area. 

Soft Skills

• Strong communication skills that allow them to collaborate with other personnel.
• Time management skills 
• Attention to detail.

Training

Prior experience in mold setting or plastic injection is often required for these positions.

Certifications

Plastic Mold Setters may need to use hoists, cranes, or forklifts in their line of work. With this in mind, certifications in safety and forklift operations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are beneficial.

Obtaining a Master Mold Builder Certification from the American Mold Builders Association (AMBA) is also a plus.

5. Quality Inspector – Plastics

A Quality Inspector is responsible for verifying that all finished plastic goods comply with client specifications and quality expectations.

Hard Skills

• Proficiency in various measurement tools and assorted test equipment.
• Basic math and computer skills.
• Well-honed organizational skills, since they are responsible for sorting and certifying returned or rejected items and distributing and organizing quality documents and inspection samples.
• The ability to read and understand technical drawings and data.

Soft Skills

• An exceptional attention to detail. 
• Strong communication skills to coordinate with machine operators and technicians.

Training

Prior experience in a quality assurance role within the plastics industry is often required.

Certifications  

Applicants may consider obtaining a CQI (Certified Quality Inspector) or CQT (Certified Quality Technician) from the American Society for Quality (ASQ)

Another valid option is ISO 9001 certification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

As you can see, there is some overlap and similarity between positions, training, and the required or preferred certifications for each role. This unique blend of similarity and uniqueness gives applicants even more freedom to choose a specialization and position that best suits their strengths and interests. It also ensures job security, since the skills learned in any position in the plastics industry are easily transferable!

Regardless of which of these five options you choose, you will find that plastics is a stable, exciting, and ever-evolving industry, offering opportunities and new experiences to dedicated job seekers. A great place to start is by checking out our Career Concepts Job page. We not only have several job openings in plastics, but we have also been connecting job seekers with the right position for over 50 years. Contact us today and let us help you take the next step in your career.