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Plastic Injection Molding Operator Jobs in California

Kinetic Personnel Group

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Plastic Injection Molding Operator

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

The Plastic Injection Molding Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring injection molding machines used to manufacture plastic parts and products. This role ensures production ...

WET Design

Injection Mold Operator

CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... Plastic Injection Molding Machines. Operate 77, 275 and 750 ton machines to produce high quality parts for our proprietary devices. Responsibilities: * Responsible for operating, loading and ...

Professional Search Group - Orange County

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Plastic Injection Mold Process Technician

Tustin, CA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining plastic injection molding equipment to produce high-quality plastic components. Your expertise will ensure efficient ...

Work Comp 360

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Injection Molding Operator

Orange, CA · On-site

$18 - $18.50/hr

We are currently hiring Injection Molding Operators for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts . Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and performing repetitive ...

Work Comp 360

Injection Molding Operator

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

We are currently hiring Injection Molding Operators for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts . Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and performing repetitive ...

Pexco

Molding Operator 2nd shift

Yorba Linda, CA · On-site

$20/hr

The molding Operator will also be responsible for troubleshooting minor machine issues, performing ... Start and operate plastic injection molding machines according to established procedures and ...

ALOIS LLC

Injection Molding Machine Operator

Garden Grove, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Produces quality parts by running plastic injection molding machines, following work orders and blueprints. Monitors process temperatures and injection pressures to detect non-conformances to drawing ...

Studex

Plastic Injection Mold Maker

Harbor City, CA · On-site

$17.81 - $25/hr

Company: A worldwide provider of injection molding products serving a diverse marketplace is ... Capable of operating manual and cnc tool room equipment * Possess basic welding skills * Ability to ...

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Plastic Injection Molding Operator information

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$10

$17

$24

How much do plastic injection molding operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic injection molding operator in California is $17.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a plastic injection molding operator do?

A Plastic Injection Molding Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that shape plastic materials into parts and products. They ensure molds are correctly installed, monitor the molding process, and inspect finished products for quality. Operators may also troubleshoot machine issues, adjust settings for optimal production, and keep records of production runs. This role is crucial in manufacturing industries that produce plastic components for automotive, medical, consumer goods, and more.

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

To thrive as a Plastic Injection Molding Operator, you need a solid understanding of machine operation, quality control, and basic mechanical aptitude, often earned through a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with injection molding machines, measurement tools like calipers and micrometers, and knowledge of safety protocols are essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work well in a team make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure efficient production, minimize defects, and maintain workplace safety in a manufacturing environment.

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

Plastic Injection Molding Operators often encounter challenges such as machine malfunctions, maintaining product quality, and managing tight production schedules. To address these, operators must regularly perform equipment checks, promptly report and troubleshoot issues, and follow detailed quality control procedures. Effective communication with maintenance teams and supervisors is essential to minimize downtime and ensure consistent output. Staying updated on best practices and safety protocols also helps operators adapt to production demands and maintain a smooth workflow.

What is the difference between Plastic Injection Molding Operator vs Plastic Molding Technician?

AspectPlastic Injection Molding OperatorPlastic Molding Technician
CertificationsTypically requires on-the-job training, sometimes certifications in machinery operationMay require additional certifications or technical training in troubleshooting
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, operating injection molding machinesSimilar environment, often involved in machine setup and maintenance
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate injection molding machines, monitor production, perform quality checksSet up, troubleshoot, and maintain molding equipment, ensure quality standards

The main difference is that Plastic Injection Molding Operators primarily focus on operating machines and monitoring production, while Plastic Molding Technicians handle setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance tasks. Both roles work in similar environments and may require comparable certifications, but technicians typically have a broader scope of technical skills.

Plastic Injection Molding Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Injection Molding Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,352 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Plastic Injection Molding Operator

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

Kinetic Personnel Group
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Kinetic Personnel Groupexternal

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

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Job description

The Plastic Injection Molding Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring injection molding machines used to manufacture plastic parts and products. This role ensures production is completed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with quality standards and work order specifications.

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

· Set up and operate plastic injection molding machines according to production schedules and work instructions.

· Install molds, dies, and tooling on machines using clamps, bolts, and hand tools, following work order specifications.

· Adjust and monitor machine controls, including molding temperature, pressure, cycle time, and material volume to ensure quality production.

· Operate machine controls to inject plastic materials into molds and produce finished parts.

· Remove molded products from machines and inspect for quality, defects, and conformance to specifications.

· Trim excess plastic material (flash) from finished products using knives, cutters, or other hand tools.

· Mix thermoplastic materials and color pigments according to formulas or production requirements, when required.

· Grind and recycle scrap plastic materials for reuse in the manufacturing process.

· Perform routine quality checks and document production data as required.

· Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

· Follow all company safety procedures, quality standards, and production guidelines.

· Report equipment malfunctions, quality concerns, or safety issues to supervisors promptly.

 

Qualifications

· High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

· Previous experience in plastic injection molding or manufacturing environment preferred.

· Ability to read and interpret work orders, production instructions, and quality specifications.

· Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools.

· Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

· Ability to stand for extended periods and lift materials or products as required.

 

Physical Requirements

· Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching.

· Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.

· Manual dexterity to operate machinery and use hand tools.

· Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, noise, and moving equipment.