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Plastic Injection Molding Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Mold Designer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$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.

Actalent

Tool Design Engineer

Postville, IA

Design tooling for plastic injection molding using 3D CAD software, ensuring robust, efficient, and manufacturable solutions. * Apply design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA ...

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All JobsPlastic Injection Molding JobsPlastic Injection Molding Jobs in Iowa

Plastic Injection Molding information

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$11

$17

$23

How much do plastic injection molding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic injection molding in Iowa is $17.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the hourly rate for injection molding?

The hourly rate for plastic injection molding operators typically ranges from $15 to $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment. Skilled workers with certifications or specialized knowledge may earn higher wages, and rates can vary based on the manufacturing environment and company size.

What is plastic injection molding?

Plastic injection molding is a manufacturing process used to produce parts by injecting molten plastic material into a mold. The process involves melting plastic pellets, injecting the liquid into a custom-designed mold cavity, and then cooling the material until it solidifies into the final shape. This method is widely used due to its ability to produce high volumes of identical parts with complex shapes and fine details. It's commonly used in industries such as automotive, consumer goods, electronics, and medical devices.

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

Plastic Injection Molding Technicians often encounter challenges such as machine downtime, material inconsistencies, and maintaining product quality. Addressing these requires strong troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and good communication with maintenance and quality control teams. Proactively inspecting equipment, adhering to preventive maintenance schedules, and collaborating closely with engineers help minimize defects and ensure efficient production. Continuous learning and staying updated with new molding technologies also support long-term success in this role.

How much does a plastic injection mold maker make?

A plastic injection mold maker typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and skill level. Skilled mold makers with certifications and experience in CNC machining and tool design can earn higher wages and may work overtime or in specialized environments.

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

To thrive as a Plastic Injection Molding Technician, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and familiarity with material properties, usually supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Proficiency in using injection molding machines, process control software, and quality inspection tools is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure the efficient production of high-quality parts, minimize downtime, and maintain safety and productivity on the manufacturing floor.

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

AspectPlastic Injection MoldingPlastic Mold Designer
Primary RoleManufactures plastic parts by injecting molten plastic into moldsDesigns and develops molds used in plastic injection molding processes
Required SkillsMachine operation, material knowledge, quality controlCAD design, mold design, engineering principles
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plantsDesign studios, engineering offices
CertificationsMachine operation, safety certificationsCAD software certifications, engineering credentials

While Plastic Injection Molding involves the actual manufacturing of plastic parts, Plastic Mold Designers focus on creating the molds used in this process. Both roles are essential in the plastic manufacturing industry, with overlapping skills in engineering and design, but they differ in daily tasks and work environments.

Is plastic injection molding a good career?

Plastic injection molding is a stable manufacturing job that involves operating and maintaining injection molding machines, often requiring technical skills and safety knowledge. It offers opportunities for advancement and steady employment, especially for those with technical training or certifications. The industry values hands-on skills and attention to detail, making it a viable career choice for individuals interested in manufacturing and production roles.

What qualifications do you need for injection molding?

Plastic injection molding operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or on-the-job experience. Skills in machine operation, troubleshooting, and safety procedures are essential, and certifications such as OSHA safety training can be beneficial.
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Plastic Injection Molding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Injection Molding job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,869 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Injection Molding Technician Weekend Nights

IML Containers/Labels North America Inc.

Le Mars, IA • On-site

$20.75 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary: DOE

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 Were 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