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Plastic Injection Mold Designer Jobs in California

Join a Growing Injection Molding Team at Ambrit Engineering! We are a growing Southern California plastic injection molding manufacturer seeking experienced Process Technicians with strong ...

Plastics Process Engineer

Beaumont, CA · On-site

$77K - $80K/yr

Process Engineer - Plastic Injection Molding (Direct Hire) Location: Beaumont, CA Job Type: Full-time | Direct Hire 3PM-11PM Job Summary We are seeking a Process Engineer (Direct Hire) to support and ...

Mold Technician

Union City, CA · On-site

$40 - $47/hr

Here at Westfall Technik, we pride ourselves on being the fastest growing Plastic Injection ... We are currently seeking a Mold Technician-This is a 2nd shift position(3pm-11:30pm, Mon-Fri ...

Mold Technician

Union City, CA · On-site

$40 - $47/hr

Here at Westfall Technik, we pride ourselves on being the fastest growing Plastic Injection ... We are currently seeking a Mold Technician-This is a 2nd shift position(3pm-11:30pm, Mon-Fri ...

In this role, you will be responsible for maintaining and cleaning plastic injection molds to ensure they meet the stringent requirements of our production team. Shift: Monday-Friday Swing Shift 2 PM ...

Mold Setter

Lindsay, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21/hr

Good knowledge of manufacturing practices, especially in plastics injection molding * Operate an industrial forklift Position Requirements * * Education: High School graduate * Three years of ...

Mold Setter I - 3rd Shift

Torrance, CA

$18.75 - $22.25/hr

Experience with plastic injection molding equipment preferred. * Basic knowledge of injection molding materials, molds, and machine operation. * Mechanical aptitude with the ability to safely use ...

Showing results 21-40

Plastic Injection Mold Designer information

See California salary details

$18

$33

$45

How much do plastic injection mold designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic injection mold designer in California is $33.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.42 and $41.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Plastic Injection Mold Designer vs Plastic Mold Maker?

AspectPlastic Injection Mold DesignerPlastic Mold Maker
CredentialsTechnical degree or certification in mold design or engineeringTechnical training or apprenticeship in mold fabrication
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, collaboration with engineersManufacturing floor, machining, assembly of molds
Primary ResponsibilitiesDesigning mold components and layoutsBuilding and assembling molds based on designs

While both roles are essential in plastic injection molding, the Plastic Injection Mold Designer focuses on creating detailed mold designs using CAD software, whereas the Plastic Mold Maker physically constructs and assembles the molds based on those designs. The designer emphasizes planning and technical drawings, while the maker specializes in fabrication and assembly processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plastic injection mold designer?

To thrive as a Plastic Injection Mold Designer, you need strong CAD proficiency, knowledge of mold design principles, materials science, and a background in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with software like SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and simulation tools, as well as experience with manufacturing processes, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for creating efficient, cost-effective molds that meet client specifications and ensure high-quality production.

What are some common challenges faced by plastic injection mold designers in coordinating with manufacturing and engineering teams?

Plastic Injection Mold Designers often face challenges when translating design concepts into manufacturable molds that meet both engineering specifications and production efficiency goals. Effective communication with manufacturing and engineering teams is crucial, as design revisions may be needed to address issues like part tolerances, material selection, or tooling limitations. Designers must balance creativity with practicality, ensuring that molds are robust, cost-effective, and producible within the project's constraints. Regular collaboration and feedback loops help resolve potential conflicts and result in higher-quality outcomes.

What does a plastic injection mold designer do?

A Plastic Injection Mold Designer is responsible for creating the detailed designs and specifications for molds used in the plastic injection molding process. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to develop precise molds that ensure the efficient and accurate production of plastic parts. Their work involves understanding material properties, manufacturing processes, and collaborating with engineers and machinists to troubleshoot and improve mold designs. This role is crucial in industries like automotive, consumer goods, and medical devices where high-quality plastic components are required.
What job categories do people searching Plastic Injection Mold Designer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Injection Mold Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Plastic Injection Mold Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Plastic Injection Mold Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Plastic Injection Mold Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,576 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Injection Molding Setup Technician

Applied Medical

Lake Forest, CA • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 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

Applied Medical is seeking a highly skilled Mold Maintenance Technician to join our dynamic team. This role plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of injection molding machinery and equipment. They are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of injection molds to ensure optimal production efficiency, quality, and safety standards are met. This position requires a strong understanding of injection molding processes, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Performing Routine Maintenance: Conduct regular maintenance tasks on molds, including cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting for wear and damage. These tasks are essential for ensuring the molds remain in optimal condition and function efficiently during production runs.
  • Troubleshooting and Diagnosing Issues: Identify and troubleshoot mold-related issues, such as flashing, sticking, or defects in finished products. Utilize your technical expertise to diagnose root causes of problems and implement appropriate solutions to minimize downtime.
  • Repair and Replacement: Repair or replace damaged or worn components within molds to restore functionality and prevent defects in finished products. This may involve disassembling, cleaning, repairing, and reassembling molds using precision tools and techniques.
  • Documentation and Record-Keeping: Document all maintenance activities, including repairs, replacements, and preventive measures, accurately and comprehensively. Maintaining detailed records is essential for tracking maintenance history, analyzing trends, and informing future maintenance decisions.

Position Requirements
  • Minimum of one year of mold maintenance or set up experience in a plastic injection molding facility.
  • Showcase proficiency in safely and efficiently disassembling, cleaning, troubleshooting, and reassembling injection molds, applying acquired knowledge and skills effectively.
  • Exhibit strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of mold functionality, and a proactive attitude towards enhancing personal expertise in plastics processing, particularly in relation to mold functions.
  • Knowledgeable about hot-runner operations, fundamental maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting techniques including probe tip cleaning, removal, and reworking. Proficient in basic electrical troubleshooting for probes, heaters, thermocouples, and manifolds.
  • Knowledge in one or more of the following fields: Electronics, Electrical, Hydraulic, Pneumatic and Mechanical.
  • Read, write, and speak English.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.

Preferred
  • Proficiency in using various tools and equipment such as hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring instruments is necessary for mold maintenance tasks.
  • Ability to analyze problems, identify root causes, and develop effective solutions is vital in mold maintenance to minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations.
  • The ability to work within a team and collaborate with other technicians, engineers, and production personnel.
  •  

Benefits
  • Competitive compensation range: $20 - $30 / hour (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:
  • Minimum of one year of mold maintenance or set up experience in a plastic injection molding facility.
  • Showcase proficiency in safely and efficiently disassembling, cleaning, troubleshooting, and reassembling injection molds, applying acquired knowledge and skills effectively.
  • Exhibit strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of mold functionality, and a proactive attitude towards enhancing personal expertise in plastics processing, particularly in relation to mold functions.
  • Knowledgeable about hot-runner operations, fundamental maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting techniques including probe tip cleaning, removal, and reworking. Proficient in basic electrical troubleshooting for probes, heaters, thermocouples, and manifolds.
  • Knowledge in one or more of the following fields: Electronics, Electrical, Hydraulic, Pneumatic and Mechanical.
  • Read, write, and speak English.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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