Molding Specialist

About the role

The Molding Specialist will join 3M's Corporate Research Process Laboratory (CRPL) to lead the development of molding processes for new product introductions. You will work with a global team of innovative engineers, applying materials expertise to accelerate product design and scale‑up.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and optimize molding processes for prototyping, design iteration, and scale‑up.
• Troubleshoot molding challenges to improve part quality, validate performance, and reduce technical risk before commercialization.
• Evaluate new resins, part designs, and tooling approaches to accelerate innovation.
• Collaborate with injection‑molding machine and automation manufacturers.
• Protect 3M intellectual property by contributing to patent applications.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in a science or engineering discipline from an accredited institution.
• Five or more years of experience in process development or R&D within a private, public, government, or military environment.
• Additional education such as a Master’s degree or a Plastics Engineering degree is a plus.

Required skills

• Injection molding and plastics manufacturing expertise.
• Knowledge of injection molding machines, auxiliary equipment, molds, and process parameters.
• CAD part/product design experience.
• Plastic molding simulation tools (e.g., Moldflow, Moldex3D).

What we offer

• On‑site work at the 3M Center in Maplewood, MN (minimum four days per week).
• Up to 10% domestic/international travel.
• Potential relocation assistance.
• Access to 3M well‑being programs and a collaborative, innovative environment.