1

Injection Mold Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Work with Process Engineers to trouble shoot issues with tool or improve on. * Ability to work on ... Injection Molding process Experience * Toolmaker/Mold Maker Journeyman certification preferred

Oakley - Mold Tech II

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$28.81 - $42.53/hr

Work with Process Engineers to trouble shoot issues with tool or improve on. * Ability to work on ... Injection Molding process Experience * Toolmaker/Mold Maker Journeyman certification preferred

Be Seen First

Injection Molding experience is required to perform this job. The Process Tech II takes full ... Works closely with the Sr. Tech Supervisor, the Engineering department, the Mold Shop, the ...

Mold Maker

Fresno, CA · On-site

$40 - $42/hr

Build, repair, modify, and maintain injection molds, tooling, and related components * Troubleshoot ... Read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and engineering specifications * Inspect molds and ...

Mold Maker

Fresno, CA · On-site

$40 - $42/hr

Build, repair, modify, and maintain injection molds, tooling, and related components * Troubleshoot ... Read and interpret blueprints, CAD drawings, and engineering specifications * Inspect molds and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Injection Mold Engineer information

See California salary details

$30.6K

$88.3K

$116.5K

How much do injection mold engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for injection mold engineer in California is $88,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,400.00 and $103,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges Injection Mold Engineers face when managing new mold development projects?

Injection Mold Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing tight production deadlines with the need for precise mold design and quality assurance. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—including design, manufacturing, and quality control—can require strong communication and project management skills. Additionally, troubleshooting unexpected issues during mold testing and addressing design modifications are common, making adaptability and problem-solving crucial for success in this role.

What does an Injection Mold Engineer do?

An Injection Mold Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining molds used in the injection molding process to create plastic parts and components. They work closely with product designers and manufacturing teams to ensure molds are efficient, durable, and produce high-quality products. Their duties include overseeing mold fabrication, troubleshooting defects, optimizing mold performance, and implementing improvements. Injection Mold Engineers play a key role in ensuring production runs smoothly and meets quality standards.

What is the difference between Injection Mold Engineer vs Tooling Engineer?

AspectInjection Mold EngineerTooling Engineer
Primary FocusDesign, develop, and optimize injection molds for manufacturingDesign, build, and maintain manufacturing tools and equipment
Skills & CertificationsMechanical engineering, CAD, mold design certificationsMechanical engineering, CAD, tooling certifications
Work EnvironmentPlastic manufacturing plants, R&D labsManufacturing facilities, tool shops
Industry UsageAutomotive, consumer goods, electronicsAutomotive, aerospace, industrial equipment

Both roles require mechanical engineering knowledge and CAD skills, often sharing certifications. Injection Mold Engineers focus on mold design and optimization for plastic parts, while Tooling Engineers handle the broader scope of manufacturing tools and equipment. They often work together in manufacturing settings, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Injection Mold Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Injection Mold Engineer, you need expertise in mold design, material science, and manufacturing processes, typically supported by a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), mold flow analysis tools, and knowledge of industry standards like ISO or Six Sigma certification are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and address production challenges. These competencies ensure high-quality, efficient mold production and contribute to minimizing defects and downtime in manufacturing operations.
What are popular job titles related to Injection Mold Engineer jobs in California? For Injection Mold Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Injection Mold Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,258 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
Injection Molding Setup Technician

Injection Molding Setup Technician

Applied Medical

Lake Forest, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Applied Medical rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Applied Medical is a new generation medical device company with a proven business model and commitment to innovation fueled by rapid business growth and expansion. Our company has been developing and manufacturing advanced surgical technologies for over 35 years and has earned a strong reputation for excellence in the healthcare field. Our unique business model, combined with our dedication to delivering the highest quality products, enables team members to contribute in a larger capacity than is possible in typical positions.
Position Description
Applied Medical is seeking a highly skilled Mold Maintenance Technician to join our dynamic team. This role plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of injection molding machinery and equipment. They are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of injection molds to ensure optimal production efficiency, quality, and safety standards are met. This position requires a strong understanding of injection molding processes, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Performing Routine Maintenance: Conduct regular maintenance tasks on molds, including cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting for wear and damage. These tasks are essential for ensuring the molds remain in optimal condition and function efficiently during production runs.
  • Troubleshooting and Diagnosing Issues: Identify and troubleshoot mold-related issues, such as flashing, sticking, or defects in finished products. Utilize your technical expertise to diagnose root causes of problems and implement appropriate solutions to minimize downtime.
  • Repair and Replacement: Repair or replace damaged or worn components within molds to restore functionality and prevent defects in finished products. This may involve disassembling, cleaning, repairing, and reassembling molds using precision tools and techniques.
  • Documentation and Record-Keeping: Document all maintenance activities, including repairs, replacements, and preventive measures, accurately and comprehensively. Maintaining detailed records is essential for tracking maintenance history, analyzing trends, and informing future maintenance decisions.

Position Requirements
  • Minimum of one year of mold maintenance or set up experience in a plastic injection molding facility.
  • Showcase proficiency in safely and efficiently disassembling, cleaning, troubleshooting, and reassembling injection molds, applying acquired knowledge and skills effectively.
  • Exhibit strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of mold functionality, and a proactive attitude towards enhancing personal expertise in plastics processing, particularly in relation to mold functions.
  • Knowledgeable about hot-runner operations, fundamental maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting techniques including probe tip cleaning, removal, and reworking. Proficient in basic electrical troubleshooting for probes, heaters, thermocouples, and manifolds.
  • Knowledge in one or more of the following fields: Electronics, Electrical, Hydraulic, Pneumatic and Mechanical.
  • Read, write, and speak English.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.

Preferred
  • Proficiency in using various tools and equipment such as hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring instruments is necessary for mold maintenance tasks.
  • Ability to analyze problems, identify root causes, and develop effective solutions is vital in mold maintenance to minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations.
  • The ability to work within a team and collaborate with other technicians, engineers, and production personnel.

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation range: $20 - $30 / hour (California).
  • Comprehensive benefits package.
  • Training and mentorship opportunities.
  • On-campus wellness activities.
  • Education reimbursement program.
  • 401(k) program with discretionary employer match.
  • Generous vacation accrual and paid holiday schedule.

Please note that the compensation range may be based on factors such as relevant education, qualifications, experience. The compensation range may be adjusted in the future, and special discretionary bonus or incentive compensation plans may apply.
Our total reward package reflects our commitment to team member growth and well-being, as we invest in your development and offer a range of benefits designed to enhance your career and life.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Applied Medical is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), or sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws in the locations where Applied Medical operates.

What Applied Medical employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom