1

Injection Molding Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Do you have experience with pneumatics, hydraulics, and manual machine operation ? We're looking for a dependable Injection Molding Machine Operator to join a clean, climate-controlled facility where ...

You will be responsible for the operation of injection moulding machinery and supporting equipment . Candidates with prior machine operation or similar experience prefered . Positions available on ...

Injection Molding Machine Operator

Garden Grove, CA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Produces quality parts by running plastic injection molding machines, following work orders and blueprints. Monitors process temperatures and injection pressures to detect non-conformances to drawing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Injection Molding Machine Operator information

See salary details

$12

$18

$25

How much do injection molding machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for injection molding machine operator in the United States is $18.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an injection molding machine operator?

An Injection Molding Machine Operator is a skilled worker responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that shape plastic or other materials into parts and products using molds. Their duties include loading materials into the machine, adjusting settings for temperature and pressure, monitoring the production process, and performing quality checks on finished products. They also troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and ensure safety standards are met in the manufacturing environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an injection molding machine operator?

To thrive as an Injection Molding Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with injection molding machines, quality control systems, and basic computer operation is important, and some roles may require certification in plastics processing or safety training. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that help operators maintain quality and address issues quickly. These skills ensure consistent production quality, reduce downtime, and support a safe and efficient manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by injection molding machine operators and how can they be addressed?

Injection Molding Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as machine malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and minimizing material waste. Addressing these issues requires strong troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and adherence to safety and quality protocols. Operators typically collaborate closely with maintenance teams and quality control inspectors to quickly resolve technical issues and ensure production standards are met. Continuous learning and familiarity with different plastics and machine types also help operators adapt to changing production demands and advance in their careers.

What is the difference between Injection Molding Machine Operator vs Plastic Molding Technician?

AspectInjection Molding Machine OperatorPlastic Molding Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training or certification
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plantsFactories, manufacturing plants
Job FocusOperating and monitoring machinesMaintaining, troubleshooting, and setting up molds
Industry UsageCommon in plastics manufacturingCommon in plastics and rubber industries

While both roles work within plastics manufacturing, Injection Molding Machine Operators primarily focus on operating and monitoring molding machines, whereas Plastic Molding Technicians handle mold setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The roles often overlap but differ in technical responsibilities and skill requirements.

Is injection molding a hard job?

Injection molding machine operators typically perform repetitive tasks in a manufacturing environment, requiring attention to detail and safety awareness. The job can involve standing for long periods, operating machinery, and troubleshooting issues, which may be physically demanding but is generally manageable with proper training and experience.
More about Injection Molding Machine Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Injection Molding Machine Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Injection Molding Machine Operator job openings:

What states have the most Injection Molding Machine Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Injection Molding Machine Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Injection Molding Machine Operator jobs?

For Injection Molding Machine Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Injection Molding Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,189 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Reaction Injection Molding Machine Operator

Willoughby, OH โ€ข On-site

Ericson Manufacturing Co
Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturingย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$15 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

We are hiring! We are currently searching for a Reaction Injection Molding Machine Operator to join our team!

The Company: Ericson Manufacturing engineers and manufactures temporary power, lighting and safety electrical products for your workplace. Family owned and operated since 1918, our mission is to safeguard your jobsite with quality and innovative solutions with a commitment to safety, ease of use and reliability.

Available Shift: 1st shift = 5:00 AM –3:30 PM (M – TH)

The job: The RIM Operator produces plastic parts on a Reaction Injection Molder. These machines create one large part at a time through a high-pressure polymer injection process. Operators monitor the process, ensure all components are operating properly, unload freshly formed parts, perform some hand trimming and perform a few simple quality checks on finished products.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Operates Reaction-Injection Molding (RIM) machine to mold parts to customer specifications.
  • Uses hand and power tools to remove flash and gates or conduct changeovers.
  • Assists/conducts mold changes including clamping process as necessary.
  • Follow production schedules to ensure finished parts are done and shipped on time.
  • Utilize Production paperwork to track time, quantity and scrap in ERP system.
  • Adheres to all safety policies and practices, consistently uses personal protective equipment, and practices good housekeeping.
  • Maintains regular on time attendance and adheres to company policies, procedures, and standards of conduct.
  • Clean and maintain equipment, machinery, and workstations on a daily basis.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • 1+ years of experience operating plastic injection molding machines.
  • Proficient with the functions and capabilities of injection molding machinery.
  • Ability to read job traveler, prints, diagram, and use basic measuring tools as needed.
  • Strong attention to detail.

Ericson offers a competitive compensation and benefit program

Ericson is an EO employer – M/F/Vets/Disabled