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Molding Associate Jobs in Freeport, IL (NOW HIRING)

Warehouse Associate

Rockford, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Richards Building Supply is seeking a Warehouse Associate for our Rockford, IL location. Your next ... soffit, doors, molding, rainware, cabinets, and more! Learn more about us here : Terms and ...

Warehouse Associate

Rockford, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Richards Building Supply is seeking a Warehouse Associate for our Rockford, IL location. Your next ... soffit, doors, molding, rainware, cabinets, and more! Learn more about us here : Terms and ...

Warehouse Associate

Rockford, IL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Richards Building Supply is seeking a Warehouse Associate for our Rockford, IL location. Your next ... molding, rainware, cabinets, and more! Learn more about us here : -supply.com/about Terms and ...

Lead, Electrical Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$119K - $184K/yr

... associate brand products and solutions to address the needs of a broad range of customers and ... Interfaces with the commercial dealer systems operation, manufacturing plants, tread and mold ...

Molding Associate information

See Freeport, IL salary details

$9

$14

$16

How much do molding associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for molding associate in Freeport, IL is $14.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.06 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 cities near Freeport, IL are hiring for Molding Associate jobs?

Cities near Freeport, IL with the most Molding Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Molding Associate job openings in Freeport, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,753 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

MIM Operations Manager (Metal Injection Molding)

Genie Matthews and Associates

Rockford, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

MIM Operations Manager

The MIM Operations Manager is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of Metal Injection Molding (MIM) production while serving as the technical leader for MIM processes within the organization. This role bridges operations and engineering, ensuring production execution meets customer expectations for quality, delivery, and cost.

This leader owns technical expertise, operational execution, and team development, ensuring the organization is positioned to support current and future business growth. This position oversees a team of technical experts, including Sr. Process Engineer, and partners closely with the Metallurgist and customers to drive successful project execution.

The MIM Operations Manager reports directly to the Director of Engineering.

Requirements:

  • Should have technical degree or related.
  • Strong expertise in MIM Processing (feedstock, molding, debinding, sintering).
  • Should have some leadership skills of technical personnel.
  • Understanding of metallurgical and materials principles.

Perks:

  • This is a new growth area for the company and will be the key individual to advance the company manufacturing operations in MIM.
  • 20% Bonus