Training Manager – Plastics

Training ManagerThe Training Manager is responsible for developing, coordinating, and delivering hands-on technical training across plastics manufacturing operations, including extrusion, injection molding, assembly, fabrication, and related piping and fittings production processes.This role is intended for a highly experienced plastics manufacturing professional who can train directly on the shop floor, coach operators and apprentices, standardize skill development, and ensure employees are properly trained to perform safely, consistently, and efficiently. The Training Manager will work closely with production leadership, engineering, maintenance, quality, and HR to build a structured training program that supports operational performance, workforce development, and long-term capability building.Key ResponsibilitiesHands-On Technical TrainingPlastics extrusion operationsInjection molding operationsAssembly and fabrication of piping, fittings, and related componentsEquipment setup, startup, shutdown, and troubleshootingMaterial handling and processing requirementsTooling, dies, molds, fixtures, and changeover practicesProduct quality checks and defect recognitionSafe operating procedures and standard workProvide direct coaching to operators, technicians, team leads, apprentices, and new hires to build technical skill and production discipline.Training Program DevelopmentCreate, maintain, and improve structured training programs for manufacturing roles.Develop training matrices, skills assessments, certification levels, and progression plans for key production positions.Build training schedules that align with production needs, staffing plans, apprenticeship requirements, and business priorities.Ensure training materials, work instructions, checklists, and assessments are accurate, current, and aligned with operational standards.Apprentice OversightOversee apprentice training and development within plastics manufacturing operations.Coordinate apprentice rotations, skill progression, evaluations, and documentation.Partner with supervisors, mentors, and technical experts to ensure apprentices receive consistent, meaningful hands-on experience.Track apprentice performance and provide feedback, coaching, and corrective guidance where needed.Operational SupportWork directly with production leaders to identify skill gaps, recurring process issues, quality concerns, and training needs.Support process improvement initiatives by training employees on new methods, equipment, standards, and best practices.Reinforce safe work practices, housekeeping expectations, quality standards, and production discipline.Assist with onboarding new manufacturing employees and ensuring they are prepared to work safely and effectively.Training Documentation and ComplianceMaintain accurate records of training completion, certifications, skills assessments, and apprentice progress.Ensure training programs support internal requirements, safety standards, quality systems, and regulatory expectations.Audit training effectiveness through observation, performance metrics, and feedback from production leadership.Continuously improve training content based on operational performance, quality issues, safety incidents, and employee development needs.QualificationsMinimum 15+ years of leadership, engineering, technical training, or senior operational experience in a plastics production environment.Strong hands-on experience in one or more of the following areas:Plastics extrusionInjection moldingPlastic pipe and fittings productionAssembly and fabrication of plastic componentsDemonstrated ability to train, coach, and develop manufacturing employees in a shop-floor environment.Experience developing training schedules, skills matrices, work instructions, or structured training programs.Strong understanding of manufacturing safety, quality, productivity, standard work, and process control.Ability to communicate effectively with operators, apprentices, supervisors, engineers, maintenance teams, and senior leadership.Proven ability to lead by example and reinforce standards through practical, hands-on instruction.Preferred QualificationsPrior experience managing or supporting apprenticeship programs.Technical degree, engineering degree, trade certification, or equivalent manufacturing experience.Experience in PVC, CPVC, HDPE, PP, PE, or other thermoplastic piping systems.Background in Lean Manufacturing, 5S, continuous improvement, or structured problem solving.Experience with ISO quality systems or regulated manufacturing environments.Prior supervisory, production leadership, maintenance, tooling, or process engineering experience.Key CompetenciesHands-on technical credibilityStrong coaching and communication skillsPractical problem-solving abilityHigh safety and quality standardsAbility to organize and manage multiple training prioritiesStrong follow-through and documentation disciplinePatience and effectiveness when developing inexperienced employeesAbility to challenge poor practices while building trust on the shop floor