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Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Actalent

Tool Design Engineer

Postville, IA

Design tooling for plastic injection molding using 3D CAD software, ensuring robust, efficient, and ... Use mold flow analysis tools to evaluate and optimize tooling performance, part quality, and cycle ...

W3Global Inc.

Mold Designer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Design plastic injection molds and structural foam molds based on OEM-supplied part models and engineering specifications. * Ensure designs meet quality, safety, and manufacturing standards.

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Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$32.4K

$80.7K

$113.2K

How much do plastic injection molding quality engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for plastic injection molding quality engineer in Iowa is $80,729.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,400.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is plastic injection molding a good career?

Plastic injection molding quality engineers play a key role in ensuring product quality and process efficiency in manufacturing. The field offers steady employment opportunities, especially for those with skills in quality control, process optimization, and certifications like Six Sigma. It can be a stable career with potential for advancement in manufacturing and engineering environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineers often encounter challenges such as identifying root causes of defects, maintaining consistent product quality, and balancing tight production schedules with thorough inspections. Addressing these challenges typically involves close collaboration with production teams, implementing robust statistical process control methods, and continuously updating inspection protocols based on feedback and process data. Developing strong communication skills and staying current with industry standards can also help in proactively resolving quality issues and improving overall product reliability.

How much do injection mold engineers make?

Injection mold engineers, including plastic injection molding quality engineers, typically earn between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000. Compensation also varies based on the complexity of projects and the size of the manufacturing facility.

What is the difference between Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineer vs Plastic Injection Molding Process Engineer?

AspectPlastic Injection Molding Quality EngineerPlastic Injection Molding Process Engineer
Primary FocusEnsuring product quality, inspection, and compliance with standardsDeveloping, optimizing, and troubleshooting molding processes
Key ResponsibilitiesQuality audits, defect analysis, implementing corrective actionsProcess design, parameter setting, process improvements
Required SkillsQuality control, inspection techniques, ISO standardsProcess engineering, technical troubleshooting, equipment knowledge
Work EnvironmentQuality labs, inspection stations, manufacturing floorsProduction lines, engineering labs, process development areas

While both roles are essential in plastic injection molding, the Quality Engineer primarily focuses on maintaining product quality and compliance, whereas the Process Engineer concentrates on developing and refining the molding processes for efficiency and consistency.

What is the hourly rate for injection molding?

For a Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineer, the hourly rate typically ranges from $20 to $40, depending on experience, location, and company size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher rates. Rates also vary based on the complexity of quality assurance tasks and the use of specific inspection tools.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineer typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, with top earners in senior or managerial roles reaching higher salaries. Earning $500,000 a year is uncommon for this role and usually requires executive-level positions or extensive experience in specialized fields within manufacturing or quality management.

What does a Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineer do?

A Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring that plastic products produced through the injection molding process meet quality standards and specifications. They develop and implement quality control procedures, inspect finished products, and analyze manufacturing processes to identify areas for improvement. Their role also involves troubleshooting defects, collaborating with production teams, and maintaining documentation to comply with industry regulations. By monitoring and improving the quality of molded parts, they help reduce defects and increase customer satisfaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering, quality management systems, and a strong understanding of plastic materials and molding processes, often supported by a related degree. Familiarity with quality tools such as SPC, Six Sigma, GD&T, and proficiency in using measurement equipment and quality software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure rigorous quality standards are maintained, defects are minimized, and customer requirements are consistently met in a manufacturing environment.
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Plastic Injection Molding Quality Engineer jobs near you

Injection Molding Technician 2nd Shift

Gest-Can RLX (2000) INC

Le Mars, IA • On-site

$20.75 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

We are looking for a hands-on technician to help maintain and support our in-mold labeling (IML) plastic injection molding operations. The technician will assist with machine setup, troubleshooting, repairs, and preventive maintenance for our injection molding machines, label robots, and associated automation systems.

This is a key role to help reduce downtime and ensure our equipment is running safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities:

Injection Molding & IML Setup:

  • Help install and remove molds from injection molding machines
  • Set up in-mold label magazines and adjust robot label pickers
  • Load labels into IML stations and make sure labels are applied properly inside the molds

Machine Operation Support:

  • Monitor machines to ensure proper label placement and product quality
  • Assist operators and team leads with machine or label alignment issues
  • Adjust label sensors, vacuum levels, or robot arms when labels are misapplied

Maintenance & Troubleshooting:

  • Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, pneumatic, or robotic issues (e.g., vacuum loss, stuck labels, faulty sensors)
  • Report any recurring machine issues to maintenance manager
  • Replace worn-out components (hoses, fittings, sensors, cylinders)

Preventative Maintenance:

  • Clean sensors, filters, and moving parts on IML and molding machines
  • Grease and lubricate mold slides and robotic arms regularly
  • Inspect and tighten loose wires, air lines, and fittings

Documentation & Communication:

  • Record maintenance tasks in logbooks or computer system
  • Communicate clearly with maintenance team, leads, and supervisors on issues or needed repairs
  • Follow all safety and lockout/tagout procedures

What We’re Looking For:

  • Basic mechanical knowledge (gears, motors, belts, sensors, air lines)
  • Comfortable using hand tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, Allen keys, etc.)
  • Some experience with injection molding, automation, or IML labeling is a big plus
  • Ability to read machine instructions and troubleshoot issues logically
  • Willing to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and respond to machine downtime quickly
  • Able to lift up to 50 lbs and work on your feet throughout the shift

Bonus Skills (Nice to Have):

  • Ability to read simple electrical or pneumatic diagrams
  • Experience using forklift or pallet jack (if needed for mold handling)


Benefits Include:

  • Biweekly pay
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid holidays and PTO
  • Growth opportunities and on-the-job training
  • Friendly and supportive team environment