First Article Molder

Be visionary Teledyne Technologies Incorporated provides enabling technologies for industrial growth markets that require advanced technology and high reliability. These markets include aerospace and defense, factory automation, air and water quality environmental monitoring, electronics design and development, oceanographic research, deepwater oil and gas exploration and production, medical imaging and pharmaceutical research. ​ We are looking for individuals who thrive on making an impact and want the excitement of being on a team that wins. Job Description General Overview The First Article Molder is responsible for the setup, validation, and execution of first article and prototype molding builds using transfer, injection, and dispensing equipment for polyurethane, neoprene, epoxy, and similar materials. This role is critical to ensuring that molding processes are properly established, verified, and repeatable prior to production release. The operator is expected to take ownership of mold setup accuracy, process parameters, material handling, and part quality, while proactively identifying and resolving issues during initial builds. This position requires a strong balance of hands-on equipment operation, technical troubleshooting, and attention to detail to ensure successful first-pass quality. Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned. First Article Setup & Process Validation Perform complete setups for first article and prototype molding jobs, including mold selection, fixture preparation, and machine configuration. Establish and verify process parameters (temperature, pressure, cure times, etc.) to meet product specifications. Run initial cycles and evaluate results to confirm process capability and repeatability. Identify any setup or process gaps and make real-time adjustments to achieve acceptable results. Molding Operations (Hands-On Execution) Safely operate molding equipment including injection, transfer, and dispensing machines. Load materials, operate press controls, and monitor cycles to ensure proper curing and formation of parts. Remove molded components and perform necessary trimming, handling, or staging for next operations. Maintain active engagement in production while ensuring strict adherence to first article requirements. Material Handling & Processing Handle and prepare polyurethane, epoxy, neoprene, and similar materials in accordance with specifications. Monitor material condition (pot life, expiration, mix consistency) and ensure proper use. Detect and report defective, expired, or non-conforming materials prior to use. Quality Validation & Inspection Perform detailed in-process inspections of molded components during first article runs. Verify parts meet dimensional, visual, and functional criteria prior to release. Distinguish acceptable vs. non-conforming parts and stop/adjust process as needed. Complete required first article documentation, inspection records, and deviation reports accurately. Troubleshooting & Process Improvement Proactively identify molding defects such as voids, flash, cure issues, surface defects, or incomplete fills. Troubleshoot issues related to tooling, materials, or machine parameters. Make controlled adjustments to process settings to resolve issues and improve outcomes. Escalate issues when needed, but demonstrate ownership in problem-solving first. Tooling, Fixtures & Equipment Care Inspect molds, tooling, and fixtures prior to setups to ensure readiness. Identify wear, damage, or cleanliness issues impacting part quality. Coordinate cleaning, maintenance, or repair needs with appropriate teams. Maintain equipment and workspace in accordance with 6S standards. Documentation & Communication Accurately complete shop orders, labor tracking, process records, and quality documentation. Record process changes, deviations, and observations during first article builds. Communicate clearly with leads, supervisors, and engineering teams regarding build status and issues. Safety & Compliance Follow all safety procedures, particularly when working with heated equipment, pressurized systems, and chemical materials. Ensure compliance with all quality standards and company policies. Maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment. Supervisory Responsibilities                                             This position does not supervise other employees. Qualifications/Requirements To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Education/Experience Minimum High School diploma or equivalent. Minimum 3 years production experience in a manufacturing environment Experienced molding with materials such as Polyurethane, neoprene, epoxy, and EPDM preferred. Knowledge of material behavior and its impact on molding outcomes. Ability to read and interpret production drawings, process sheets, and work instructions. Experience with identifying defects and performing quality inspections. Must be able to see colors for the wiring sequences of the connectors, and possess good vision (corrected vision is acceptable) to perform visual inspection of product quality and to identify defects. Capable of standing for a minimum of 8-hour shift. Ability to lift, carry, push and pull 10-20 pounds on a frequent basis. Ability to read, write and speak the English language at a level that allows for the comprehension of detailed instructions and the legible completion of paperwork. Ability to assess condition of mold tooling, make recommendations for maintenance/cleaning, and improvements Experience to select the correct mold fo