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Injection Molding Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Set up and operate plastic injection molding machines, ensuring optimal performance and product quality. * Monitor machine operation throughout production runs, making adjustments as needed to ...

A worldwide provider of injection molding products serving a diverse marketplace is looking for a Plastics Injection Mold "Mold Maker". Essential Functions: Design/Build/Repair tooling including ...

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Learn and apply foundational principles of injection molding, including core/cavity separation, draft angles, gating, runner systems, and cooling line layouts. * Documentation Management: Maintain ...

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Injection Molding information

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$13

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$34

How much do injection molding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for injection molding in California is $24.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is injection molding?

Injection molding is a manufacturing process used to produce parts by injecting molten material into a mold. It is commonly used with plastics but can also be used with metals and other materials. The process involves melting the material, injecting it into a mold cavity, and then cooling it to create a solid part. Injection molding is widely used for mass production of complex and precise components, offering high efficiency and repeatability.

What is an injection molding job?

Injecting molding is the process of filling molds of different shapes and sizes with heated materials, such as plastic or rubber, to make components or a finished product according to specifications for a wide variety of uses, from airplane and car parts to toys to medical devices. Some of the jobs available in injection molding include machine operator, fabricator, molding line assistant, technician, and molding line operator. Generally, these jobs are split between the workers who set up and calibrate injection molding machines and those who operate the machines. Most injection molding jobs are in factories or manufacturing facilities.

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

To thrive as an Injection Molding Technician, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant technical training. Familiarity with injection molding machines, quality control systems, and troubleshooting tools, as well as certifications like RJG or Paulson Training, is highly valuable. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills are crucial for maintaining product quality, minimizing downtime, and ensuring efficient, safe production operations.

What are some common challenges faced by injection molding technicians, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Injection molding technicians often encounter challenges such as material inconsistencies, machine malfunctions, and maintaining strict quality standards. Addressing these issues requires a strong understanding of machinery operation, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. Collaborating closely with maintenance teams and quality control specialists helps resolve technical issues quickly and ensures production runs smoothly. Proactively performing regular equipment checks and staying updated on best practices can significantly minimize downtime and defects.

What is the difference between Injection Molding vs Mold Technician?

AspectInjection MoldingMold Technician
Primary RoleDesign, operate, and optimize plastic injection molding machinesMaintain, repair, and troubleshoot molds and molding equipment
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of plastics, machinery operation, safety protocolsMechanical skills, mold maintenance certifications, troubleshooting
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants with injection molding machinesManufacturing facilities, mold shops, production lines
Industry UsagePlastic manufacturing, automotive, packagingPlastic parts production, mold maintenance services

Injection Molding and Mold Technician roles are closely related in the plastics industry. Injection Molding focuses on operating and optimizing molding machines, while Mold Technicians specialize in maintaining and repairing molds. Both roles require mechanical knowledge and work in manufacturing environments, often overlapping in skills and industry applications.

Is injection molding a hard job?

Injection molding is a skilled manufacturing job that involves operating and maintaining injection molding machines, which requires attention to detail, technical knowledge, and safety awareness. The job can be physically demanding and may involve working in a noisy environment, but with proper training and experience, it becomes more manageable.

What is the average salary for an injection molding technician?

The average salary for an injection molding technician typically ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled technicians with knowledge of machinery and quality control may earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing environments with shift work or overtime opportunities.

What is the typical injection molding salary?

The average salary for an injection molding technician or operator ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled workers with advanced knowledge of machinery and quality control can earn higher wages, and overtime opportunities are common in manufacturing environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Injection Molding jobs in California?

The most popular types of Injection Molding jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Injection Molding jobs?

Cities in California with the most Injection Molding job openings:

Infographic showing various Injection Molding job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,195 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Production Manager - Injection Molding

Applied Medical

Lake Forest, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 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

The Production Manager, Injection Molding leads manufacturing operations responsible for injection molding and insert molding processes that support the production of high quality medical device components at Applied Medical. The Production Manager oversees daily production activities, equipment utilization, and manufacturing teams to ensure efficient, safe, and consistent output in a regulated manufacturing environment. This role plays a critical part in optimizing molding operations, supporting continuous improvement initiatives, and ensuring production processes meet quality, regulatory, and operational standards required for medical device manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead daily production operations for injection molding and insert molding processes to ensure manufacturing targets, quality standards, and production schedules are met.
  • Manage and support production teams responsible for molding operations, equipment setup, and process monitoring within a medical device manufacturing environment.
  • Oversee injection molding equipment, tooling, and automation systems to ensure reliable and efficient production performance.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing engineering, tooling engineers, and quality assurance teams to improve molding processes, resolve production challenges, and optimize process stability.
  • Implement continuous improvement initiatives focused on production efficiency, scrap reduction, cycle time optimization, and process capability.
  • Monitor production metrics, equipment utilization, and manufacturing performance indicators to drive operational improvements.
  • Ensure compliance with quality systems, manufacturing documentation, and regulatory requirements associated with medical device production.
  • Coordinate with maintenance and technical teams to support preventative maintenance programs and minimize equipment downtime.

Success in This Role Looks Like

  • Deliver consistent production output through stable injection molding and insert molding operations that meet quality and schedule requirements.
  • Improve manufacturing efficiency through process optimization, equipment utilization improvements, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Lead production teams effectively while maintaining strong communication and collaboration with engineering, quality, and maintenance teams.
  • Maintain high quality manufacturing standards aligned with regulated medical device production requirements.
  • Identify and resolve production challenges quickly to minimize downtime and maintain manufacturing continuity.
  • Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence within the manufacturing team.

Position Requirements

This Position Requires the Following Skills and Attributes

  • Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, or a related technical discipline, or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience.
  • Several years of experience supporting or managing injection molding manufacturing operations within a production environment.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of injection molding processes, insert molding techniques, and thermoplastic material processing.
  • Experience leading manufacturing teams within a production or manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to troubleshoot molding process issues related to tooling, materials, equipment, and cycle performance.
  • Experience working with injection molding equipment, molds, automation systems, and production tooling.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing performance metrics such as cycle time, scrap rates, yield, and equipment efficiency.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with manufacturing engineering, quality assurance, maintenance, and supply chain teams.
  • Strong organizational, problem solving, and operational leadership skills.
  • Ability to communicate clearly with technical teams and production personnel within a fast paced manufacturing environment.

Preferred

The Following Skills and Attributes Are Preferred

  • Experience supporting regulated manufacturing environments such as medical device manufacturing or other quality controlled industries.
  • Experience with scientific molding techniques and injection molding process optimization.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing quality systems and documentation practices associated with regulated industries.
  • Experience implementing continuous improvement initiatives such as lean manufacturing or process optimization programs.

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation range: $85000 - $95000 / year(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. 

Qualifications:

This Position Requires the Following Skills and Attributes

  • Bachelor’s degree in manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, or a related technical discipline, or equivalent manufacturing leadership experience.
  • Several years of experience supporting or managing injection molding manufacturing operations within a production environment.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of injection molding processes, insert molding techniques, and thermoplastic material processing.
  • Experience leading manufacturing teams within a production or manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to troubleshoot molding process issues related to tooling, materials, equipment, and cycle performance.
  • Experience working with injection molding equipment, molds, automation systems, and production tooling.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing performance metrics such as cycle time, scrap rates, yield, and equipment efficiency.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with manufacturing engineering, quality assurance, maintenance, and supply chain teams.
  • Strong organizational, problem solving, and operational leadership skills.
  • Ability to communicate clearly with technical teams and production personnel within a fast paced manufacturing environment.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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