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Plastics Process Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Plastics Process Technician

Grand Rapids, MI ยท On-site

$24.76 - $39.78/hr

The Set Up/Process Technician is responsible for setting up and shutting down plastic injection molding equipment, performing mold changes, troubleshooting processing and machine issues, and ...

Roberts PolyPro is seeking an experienced Plastics Process Technician to be a technical expert in setting up and running our sheet extrusion and injection molding manufacturing equipment. Under the ...

Roberts PolyPro is seeking an experienced Plastics Process Technician to be a technical expert in setting up and running our sheet extrusion and injection molding manufacturing equipment. Under the ...

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Plastics Process Technician information

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$24

$35

How much do plastics process technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastics process technician in the United States is $24.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plastics process technician?

Plastics Process Technicians are skilled professionals who set up, operate, and maintain machines used in the manufacturing of plastic products. They are responsible for adjusting machine settings, monitoring production processes, and troubleshooting equipment to ensure high-quality output. Their work often involves working with injection molding, extrusion, or blow molding machinery. Plastics Process Technicians also perform quality checks and make sure safety and production standards are met throughout the manufacturing process.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a plastics process technician?

To thrive as a Plastics Process Technician, you need a solid understanding of polymer materials, manufacturing processes, and quality control, usually supported by technical training or an associate degree in plastics or manufacturing technology. Familiarity with injection molding machines, process monitoring software, and troubleshooting tools is typically required, along with certifications like RJG Master Molder or equivalent. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help technicians excel in optimizing production and minimizing defects. These skills ensure efficient operations, high product quality, and quick resolution of process issues in a manufacturing environment.

What are common challenges plastics process technicians face when troubleshooting production issues on the manufacturing floor?

Plastics Process Technicians often encounter challenges such as identifying the root cause of defects like warping, sink marks, or inconsistent part quality during production runs. They need to quickly analyze machine settings, material properties, and tooling to determine the source of the problem. Effective troubleshooting requires a strong understanding of the entire injection molding process, attention to detail, and collaboration with maintenance and engineering teams to implement timely solutions. Staying updated on new materials and process optimization techniques can also help address these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Plastics Process Technician vs Plastics Machine Operator?

AspectPlastics Process TechnicianPlastics Machine Operator
CredentialsTechnical certifications, training in plastics processingBasic training, on-the-job experience
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, quality control labsProduction lines, manufacturing floors
Job ResponsibilitiesSet up, troubleshoot, optimize plastic production processesOperate plastic molding machines, monitor production

While both roles work in plastics manufacturing, Plastics Process Technicians focus on process optimization and troubleshooting, requiring more technical skills and certifications. In contrast, Plastics Machine Operators primarily handle machine operation and monitoring. The technician role involves a broader understanding of production processes, making it more specialized within the industry.

More about Plastics Process Technician jobs

What states have the most Plastics Process Technician jobs?

States with the most job openings for Plastics Process Technician jobs include:

Infographic showing various Plastics Process Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 4% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,319 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Plastics Process Technician

Staffing Inc.

Grand Rapids, MI โ€ข On-site

$24.76 - $39.78/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Staffing Inc is partnered with a growing West Michigan manufacturer seeking Level 3 or 4 Process Technicians for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shift opportunities.


The Set Up/Process Technician is responsible for setting up and shutting down plastic injection molding equipment, performing mold changes, troubleshooting processing and machine issues, and supporting production to ensure quality and efficiency standards are met. This role offers the opportunity to expand technical expertise while working alongside a collaborative and experienced manufacturing team.


Responsibilities:

  • Set up, start up, and shut down plastic injection molding equipment.
  • Perform mold changes and assist with machine and process troubleshooting.
  • Diagnose molding defects and implement corrective actions.
  • Monitor processing conditions to maintain product quality and production efficiency.
  • Support production through hopper cleaning, dryer setup, moisture checks, color changes, and other processing activities.
  • Communicate equipment concerns with maintenance and participate in continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Collaborate with production, maintenance, and engineering teams to achieve safety, quality, and production goals.


Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • 4+ years of plastic injection molding experience preferred.
  • Hands-on experience with mold setup, plastic processing, raw materials, and troubleshooting.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Well organized with the ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Basic computer skills.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Associate degree in Plastics, Lockout/Tagout experience, overhead crane experience, and Routsis or Paulson training are preferred.


Schedule & Compensation:

  • Shift: 1st, 2nd, or 3rd shift available
  • Pay: $24.76โ€“$39.78/hour, plus quarterly bonus opportunities (shift differential may apply)


Staffing Incโ€”an entirely employee-owned companyโ€”is the largest independent employer in West Michigan. Our mission is to match people with meaningful, long-lasting, and enjoyable careers, not just a job. Since 1988, we've helped match over 300,000 people just like you with top employers across West Michigan.