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Plastic Injection Molding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Plastic Injection Molding information

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How much do plastic injection molding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic injection molding in the United States is $18.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $20.67 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.
More about Plastic Injection Molding jobs
What cities are hiring for Plastic Injection Molding jobs? Cities with the most Plastic Injection Molding job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plastic Injection Molding jobs? The most popular types of Plastic Injection Molding jobs are:
What states have the most Plastic Injection Molding jobs? States with the most job openings for Plastic Injection Molding jobs include:
Infographic showing various Plastic Injection Molding job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,189 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Injection Molding Plastics Process Technician

Injection Molding Plastics Process Technician

AprilAire

Poynette, WI

$24.75 - $29.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Overview

We are currently looking for an experienced Injection Molding Process Technician - Plastics to join our Poynette Ops team! In this role you will be responsible for overseeing and optimizing all aspects of plastic injection molding operations to ensure safe, efficient,

and high-quality production. This position supports daily manufacturing activities by setting up molding machines, completing mold changeovers, adjusting process parameters, and maintaining stable and repeatable operations in support of the manufacturing schedule.

This is a 2nd shift, fully onsite position with working hours of 3:00pm - 11:30pm Mon-Fri.


Responsibilities

Machine Operation & Process Control

  • Operate and manage plastic injection molding machines and auxiliary equipment, monitoring and adjusting process parameters to maintain stable, high-quality production and minimize scrap.
  • Perform efficient mold changeovers and ensure accurate machine settings for each part number.
  • Ensure all molded parts meet drawing, specification, and quality requirements through disciplined process control.

Troubleshooting & Repair

  • Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electronic issues affecting molding operations using sound engineering practices and modern diagnostic tools.
  • Perform emergency repairs during assigned shift and provide off hours support when needed to prevent production delays.
  • Recommend and implement corrective actions or process modifications to improve equipment reliability and part quality.

Mold Setup, Maintenance & Reliability

  • Set up, install, repair, and maintain injection molds to ensure consistent performance, part integrity, and extended mold life.
  • Complete scheduled preventative maintenance on molds, machines, and related equipment.

Process Optimization & Data Analysis

  • Collect, interpret, and analyze production data to identify opportunities for improving efficiency, cycle times, capacity, quality, and reducing downtime or setup time.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to the development of robust, repeatable processes.

Engineering & Prototype Support

  • Collaborate with Manufacturing and Process Engineering teams to design, build, test, and validate prototype machinery, fixtures, and devices involving mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
  • Support special projects involving equipment upgrades, new process development, or tooling trials.

Safety & Compliance

  • Follow all safety procedures, particularly when working with high voltage systems, stored energy devices, and mechanical hazards.
  • Use testing instruments and diagnostic equipment to ensure safe, reliable operation of circuits, components, controls, and systems.

Professional Development

  • Participate in training programs, technical seminars, and relevant industry events to maintain and enhance technical knowledge.

Qualifications
  • Two year extrusion molding, plastic injection or other related technical field/trade experience required.  
  • Experience with tool change over and machine set up required,
  • Team mentality and collaborative approach
  • Curious and inquisitive mindset with focus on problem-solving 
  • General understanding of Scientific Molding Methodology and Principles
  • Basic electrical and hydraulic knowledge preferred
  • Experience troubleshooting limit switches, heater bands and hydraulic cores
  • Prior Cross-functional collaboration (materials, production, shipping/receiving, engineering) experience required 
  • Ability to translate complex data into actionable recommendations
  • Strong critical thinking and root-cause analysis
  • Proactive issue identification and resolution
  • Ability to thrive in fast-paced environments

LinkedIn Tag
Keyan Stremikis #LI-KS1Qualifications:
  • Two year extrusion molding, plastic injection or other related technical field/trade experience required.  
  • Experience with tool change over and machine set up required,
  • Team mentality and collaborative approach
  • Curious and inquisitive mindset with focus on problem-solving 
  • General understanding of Scientific Molding Methodology and Principles
  • Basic electrical and hydraulic knowledge preferred
  • Experience troubleshooting limit switches, heater bands and hydraulic cores
  • Prior Cross-functional collaboration (materials, production, shipping/receiving, engineering) experience required 
  • Ability to translate complex data into actionable recommendations
  • Strong critical thinking and root-cause analysis
  • Proactive issue identification and resolution
  • Ability to thrive in fast-paced environments
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME