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Molding Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Learn and apply foundational principles of injection molding, including core/cavity separation ... Minimum of a 2-year Associate Degree or technical certificate focusing on CAD Design, Mechanical ...

Tooling - Mold Cleaner

Fremont, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Our associates take pride and ownership in their work, and innovate to provide the highest quality ... to 4 years in injection molding environment Viant is a global medical device design and ...

Mold Tool Tech III

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$21 - $27.50/hr

In-House Injection Mold Repair, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, insert change over ... Associate Degree desired * Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating ...

Mold Tool Tech III

Huntington Beach, CA

$21 - $27.50/hr

In-House Injection Mold Repair, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, insert change over ... Associate Degree desired * Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating ...

Production Associate

Corona, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Description: First Job? We're Hiring Production Associates - No Experience Needed! Corona, CA ... Remove finished products from molds and prep for the next step. * Keep machines running smoothly ...

Production Associate 2nd Shift

Brea, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Production Associate - 2nd Shift - 2PM to 10:30PM Previous cosmetics manufacturing, or personal ... Soap Product Manufacturing Packaging, Production Line, Safely remove soap from molds using ...

Production Associate

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Production Associate - Start This Week. Previous cosmetics manufacturing experience a plus but not ... Safely remove soap from molds using automated and manual hoist systems. Operate manual and ...

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Production Associate - 2nd Shift - 2PM to 10:30PM Previous cosmetics manufacturing, or personal ... Packaging, Production Line, Safely remove soap from molds using automated and manual hoist systems.

The Associate Industrial Designer supports the design and development of Giro's product portfolio ... Understanding of manufacturing processes, including injection molding, blow molding, and soft goods ...

The Associate Industrial Designer supports the design and development of Giro's product portfolio ... Understanding of manufacturing processes, including injection molding, blow molding, and soft goods ...

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Molding Associate information

See California salary details

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How much do molding associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for molding associate in California is $15.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a molding associate do?

A Molding Associate is responsible for operating and monitoring machines that mold plastic or other materials into specific shapes and products. They set up, adjust, and maintain molding equipment, inspect finished products for quality, and ensure production runs smoothly. Molding Associates often work in manufacturing environments and must follow safety protocols while troubleshooting and resolving minor machine issues. Attention to detail and the ability to work efficiently as part of a team are important skills for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a molding associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Molding Associate, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, quality control, and equipment operation, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Familiarity with injection molding machines, basic hand tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are essential soft skills that help ensure efficient production and workplace safety. These skills are crucial for maintaining product quality, minimizing downtime, and supporting overall manufacturing goals.

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

Molding Associates often encounter challenges such as maintaining product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and working efficiently under production deadlines. Addressing these challenges typically involves staying attentive to detail, following standard operating procedures, and communicating promptly with maintenance or quality teams when issues arise. Staying up to date with training and collaborating closely with team members also helps ensure smooth operations and personal growth within the role.

What is the difference between Molding Associate vs Molding Technician?

AspectMolding AssociateMolding Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing floor, assisting in molding processesManufacturing floor, operating and maintaining molding equipment
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with molding tasks, prepare materials, monitor moldsSet up, operate, troubleshoot molding machines, quality checks

While both roles work in plastic molding manufacturing, Molding Associates typically assist with supporting tasks and basic operations, whereas Molding Technicians handle more technical responsibilities like machine setup and troubleshooting. The Technician role usually requires more specialized training but both are essential in the molding production process.

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

The most popular types of Molding jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Molding Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Molding Associate job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Molding Associate jobs in CA?

For Molding Associate jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Molding Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,285 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Associate injection mold designer - Entry Level.

Brea, CA • On-site

M.R. Mold & Engineering
Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees

$40K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

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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.