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Plastic Injection Mold Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Perform mold and equipment maintenance as needed. Qualifications * High school diploma or GED. * Minimum 5 years of plastic injection molding experience . * Previous supervisory or leadership ...

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Injection Mold Maker

Carpentersville, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Injection Mold Maker OTTO's opportunity: Our Injection Mold Maker is responsible for fabrication of Injection Molding tooling. Specifically, the Injection Mold Maker will : * Keep a clean and safe ...

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Plastic Injection Mold information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16

$31

$39

How much do plastic injection mold jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic injection mold in Chicago, IL is $31.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $34.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Plastic Injection Molds?

Plastic injection molds are specialized tools used in the injection molding process to shape molten plastic into specific forms and parts. They are typically made from durable metals like steel or aluminum and are designed to withstand high pressures and temperatures. The mold consists of two main halves that come together to form a cavity, which is then filled with melted plastic and cooled to produce the final product. Injection molds are commonly used in mass manufacturing of plastic components for industries such as automotive, consumer goods, and electronics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plastic Injection Mold Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plastic Injection Mold Technician, you need a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and experience with mold setup and maintenance, often supported by technical training or an associate degree. Familiarity with CNC machines, injection molding equipment, and quality control systems, as well as certifications like RJG or Paulson, is highly beneficial. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for addressing production challenges and ensuring consistent quality. These skills and qualifications are essential for maintaining efficient production, minimizing defects, and meeting safety and quality standards in a manufacturing environment.

What is the difference between Plastic Injection Mold vs Plastic Mold Technician?

AspectPlastic Injection MoldPlastic Mold Technician
Primary RoleDesign, develop, and manufacture plastic molds for injection molding processesOperate, troubleshoot, and maintain plastic molds during production
Required SkillsCAD design, mold fabrication, material selectionMachine operation, mold setup, troubleshooting
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, mold shopsInjection molding facilities, production lines
CertificationsOften requires technical certifications in mold design or manufacturingMachine operation certifications, safety training

While a Plastic Injection Mold focuses on designing and creating molds, a Plastic Mold Technician operates and maintains these molds during production. Both roles are essential in the injection molding industry, with overlapping skills but distinct responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by plastic injection mold technicians on the job?

Plastic injection mold technicians often encounter challenges related to maintaining precise quality standards, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and minimizing production downtime. Adjusting machine settings to accommodate different mold designs and materials can require strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills. Additionally, technicians frequently collaborate with engineers and production teams to resolve defects and optimize manufacturing processes, making communication skills important for success in this role.
Infographic showing various Plastic Injection Mold job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,751 per year, or $31.1 per hour.
Mold, Tool, and Die Maker Apprentice

Mold, Tool, and Die Maker Apprentice

Chicago Mold Engineering

Saint Charles, IL โ€ข On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Chicago Mold Engineering, in its 80 plus year history, has become an awarded leader in plastic injection mold making. We apply state-of-the-art equipment with ambitious individuals merging the art and craft of mold making with modern day technology. A print free shop with all machine operators programming in CAM and all mold makers being trained in CAD, our shop has transformed into a machinist's toy land. Full 5-axis machining centers, robotic systems, and a blue-light scanner are some of the technologies incorporated into the everyday manufacturing at Chicago Mold, but that's only part of what makes us great. Good people with immense pride in American Manufacturing and their impassioned longing for knowledge is what truly keeps us moving forward. We are looking for the right people that are looking to gain knowledge and advance their abilities in the CNC machining field through on the job training!!

2007 Mold Making Technology "Leadtime Leader Award".

2012 American Mold Builders "Mold Builder of the Year".

Top pay, benefits, and overtime. Full-time positions. On job Training available.

Job Description:

  • Learn to build, repair, and trouble shoot plastic injection molds.

Experience requirements:

  • Basic understanding general shop machinery (Prototraks, surface grinders, lathes, etc.)
  • Some understanding of complex plastic injection molds a plus