ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Molding Associate Jobs in Dubuque, IA (NOW HIRING)

A.Y. McDonald Mfg.

Supervisor - 3rd Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE Associate's degree (A.A.) or equivalent from a two‐year college or ... EEO STATEMENT McDonald Plastic Molding is an equal opportunity employer. This employer is required ...

A.Y. McDonald Mfg.

Supervisor - 3rd Shift

Darlington, WI · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE Associate's degree (A.A.) or equivalent from a two‐year college or ... EEO STATEMENT McDonald Plastic Molding is an equal opportunity employer. This employer is required ...

All JobsMolding Associate JobsMolding Associate Jobs in Dubuque, IA

Molding Associate information

See Dubuque, IA salary details

$9

$14

$16

How much do molding associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for molding associate in Dubuque, IA is $14.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.61 and $16.11 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 job categories do people searching Molding Associate jobs in Dubuque, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Molding Associate jobs in Dubuque, IA are:

Molding Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Molding Associate job openings in Dubuque, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,848 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Tire Production Associate

Take Ten Tire/Thompson Tire/Direct Discount Tire

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description:

Thompson Tire & Service full-service tire business serving customers in Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, and Davenport, Iowa. We serve commercial customers with competitive pricing across a wide variety of tire brands and customized tire service, including on-site repairs and 24/7 roadside assistance. 


Additionally, we have a Goodyear Authorized Retread plant in our Dubuque location that can help our customers save money on their new tires. The Thompson Tire Production Associate is responsible for safely and efficiently retreading commercial tires.


In our retread plant, you will have the opportunity to support the retread process through various stages:


  • Inspect the tires to assess if they can be retread
  • Buff the casing to remove any worn tread
  • Remove embedded objects, rust, and repair the tire casing
  • Using rubber cement or a patch, repair the casing before applying new tread
  • Building the tire by applying new tread
  • Curing the tire to mold the retread application
  • Final Inspection to assess a safe and quality product

Responsibilities:

  • Work alongside a small, tight-knit team side by side with industry experts
  • Complete on-the-job training and become competent in all workstations of the retread process. No experience necessary, but a      desire to learn will help you get up to speed faster
  • A strong work ethic and attention to detail are critical in this role
  • Check work for accuracy, including assisting other members of the team as needed
  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment
Requirements:

Work Environment & Physical Demands

  • Automotive repair shop environment
  • Physcially demanding 
  • Regular standing, walking, bending, and lifting
  • Ability to lift up to 50lbs
  • Use of hand tools, diagnostic equipment, and shop machinery


Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive pay commensurate with experience
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Supplemental Insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • 401 (k) with company matching up to 4%


Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Thompson Tire & Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity and inclusion in the workplace.


#tire #dubuque #iowa #retread #warehouse #tireshop #tirestore #job #jobopportunity #commercialtire 

Apply