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Injection Mold Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

M.R. Mold & Engineering

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Associate injection mold designer - Entry Level.

Brea, CA · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Associate Injection Mold Designer to join our engineering and manufacturing team. In this entry-level role, you will work closely with senior designers ...

Studex

Plastic Injection Mold Maker

Harbor City, CA · On-site

$17.81 - $25/hr

Company: A worldwide provider of injection molding products serving a diverse marketplace is ... work with designers, technicians, engineers, and production personnel. Responsible for the ...

EssilorLuxottica

Mold Tech III

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Reads & interprets complex CAD drawings/specifications of injection molds and part models. * Interprets mold component drawings for form, fit and function. * Designs and builds jigs and fixtures as ...

EssilorLuxottica Group

Mold Tech III

Foothill Ranch, CA

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Reads & interprets complex CAD drawings/specifications of injection molds and part models. * Interprets mold component drawings for form, fit and function. * Designs and builds jigs and fixtures as ...

Essilor

Mold Tech III

Foothill Ranch, CA

$20.75 - $26.75/hr

Reads & interprets complex CAD drawings/specifications of injection molds and part models. * Interprets mold component drawings for form, fit and function. * Designs and builds jigs and fixtures as ...

LEMO Group

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Rohnert Park, CA · On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

Work with Design Engineering to support injection mold designs for medical, defense and commercial applications. * Provide leadership, training, and guidance to junior manufacturing associates in the ...

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Injection Mold Designer information

See California salary details

$18

$33

$45

How much do injection mold designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for injection mold designer in California is $33.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.42 and $41.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an injection mold designer do?

An Injection Mold Designer is responsible for creating detailed designs and plans for molds used in the injection molding process, which manufactures plastic parts. They use CAD software to develop precise mold layouts, considering factors like material flow, cooling, and ease of manufacturing. Injection Mold Designers work closely with engineers and manufacturers to ensure the molds meet product specifications and function efficiently. Their expertise helps in reducing production costs and improving the quality of molded products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an injection mold designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Injection Mold Designer, you need expertise in mechanical design, materials science, and mold-making principles, often supported by a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD and familiarity with mold flow analysis tools are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top designers apart. These competencies ensure precise, efficient mold designs that meet production requirements and minimize costly errors.

What are some common challenges faced by injection mold designers, and how can they be addressed?

Injection Mold Designers often encounter challenges such as ensuring part manufacturability, minimizing material waste, and meeting tight tolerances under strict deadlines. Collaborating closely with engineers and machinists can help address design-for-manufacturing concerns early in the process. Additionally, staying updated on the latest CAD software and mold-making technologies can streamline workflows and reduce errors. Proactive communication and periodic design reviews with the production team are also key to overcoming potential issues before prototyping or manufacturing begins.

What is the difference between Injection Mold Designer vs Mold Flow Engineer?

AspectInjection Mold DesignerMold Flow Engineer
Required CredentialsTechnical diploma or degree in mechanical engineering or plastics technologyDegree in mechanical engineering, plastics engineering, or related field; often with certification in mold flow software
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, manufacturing plants, CAD softwareSimulation labs, CAD software, collaboration with design and manufacturing teams
Industry UsageDesigning molds for injection molding processesAnalyzing and optimizing mold flow to improve manufacturing efficiency

While both roles work closely in the injection molding industry, the Injection Mold Designer focuses on creating detailed mold designs, whereas the Mold Flow Engineer specializes in simulating and optimizing the flow of materials within molds to ensure quality and efficiency.

How to become an injection mold designer?

To become an injection mold designer, typically a candidate needs a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field, along with experience in CAD software such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Developing skills in mold design, manufacturing processes, and materials is essential, and certifications like Certified Manufacturing Technologist (CMfgT) can enhance job prospects. Practical experience through internships or apprenticeships in mold design or manufacturing environments is highly valuable.

Is injection mold designer a hard job?

Injection mold designers typically need strong technical skills in CAD software, materials, and manufacturing processes. The job can be challenging due to the precision required, problem-solving demands, and the need to meet tight deadlines, but it is manageable with proper training and experience.

What are popular job titles related to Injection Mold Designer jobs in California?

For Injection Mold Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Injection Mold Designer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Injection Mold Designer jobs in California are:

Injection Mold Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Injection Mold Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,576 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Associate injection mold designer - Entry Level.

M.R. Mold & Engineering

Brea, CA • On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

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After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Associate Injection Mold Designer to join our engineering and manufacturing team. In this entry-level role, you will work closely with senior designers and engineers to translate product concepts into functional, manufacturable injection mold designs. This position is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate with a foundational background in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to launch a career in the plastic injection molding industry and gain hands-on, practical engineering experience.

Key Responsibilities

• CAD Drafting & Modeling: Utilize 3D CAD software to create precise technical drawings, detailed mold assemblies, and component designs based on engineering specifications.

• Collaboration & Support: Assist senior mold designers with modifying existing mold designs, updating engineering change notices (ECNs), and troubleshooting design challenges.

• Design for Manufacturability (DFM): Learn and apply foundational principles of injection molding, including core/cavity separation, draft angles, gating, runner systems, and cooling line layouts.

• Documentation Management: Maintain accurate project files, organize engineering documentation, and prepare bill of materials (BOM) lists for tool room fabrication.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Interface with the tool room, production team, and quality department to review design feasibility and support the successful build and sampling of new molds.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Minimum of a 2-year Associate Degree or technical certificate focusing on CAD Design, Mechanical Drafting, Manufacturing Technology, or a closely related field.

• Technical Skills: Foundational proficiency in mainstream 3D modeling software (such as SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, Creo, or NX) acquired through coursework or internships.

• Blueprints & Geometric Dimensioning: Solid understanding of technical drawing standards, blueprint reading, and a basic familiarity with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).

• Core Competencies: Strong spatial reasoning, mathematical aptitude, and problem-solving skills with a high degree of attention to detail.

• Soft Skills: Eagerness to learn, strong communication skills, and a collaborative mindset suited for a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Preferred (But Not Required) Qualifications

• Prior internship, co-op, or hands-on experience in a machine shop or manufacturing environment. • Basic understanding of plastic materials, metallurgy, or manufacturing processes.

• Exposure to mold simulation software (e.g., Moldflow)

What We Offer

• Competitive entry-level salary and comprehensive benefits package (Medical, 401k).

• Opportunities for continuing education and advanced training in injection molding technologies.

• A clear path for career progression within our growing engineering


Company Description

M.R. Mold is known globally for its experience and expertise in the mold building industry. We have been building LSR and plastic injection molds since 1985. The company pays 75% of the employee's medical insurance and matching 401K donations at 10%. We value investing in our employees and helping them succeed and grow both personally and professionally. We'd love to have you join the M.R. Mold team.