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Plastics Process Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$120K - $130K/yr

PLASTICS PROCESS ENGINEER MANAGER New York Mills, NY, US 29 days ago Requisition ID: 1131 Salary ... Collaborate with blow mold technicians to improve mold and tool performance. * Develop process ...

This describes the authority, duties, responsibilities, reporting relationships and measure of accomplishment for the functional position of the Process Technician of All-Plastics. BASIC FUNCTION:

This describes the authority, duties, responsibilities, reporting relationships and measure of accomplishment for the functional position of the Process Technician of All-Plastics. BASIC FUNCTION:

Assists Process Technicians with implementing molding process improvements using scientific methods ... A.) in Mechanical, Electrical or Plastics Engineering (plastics preferred) required; plus three or ...

This describes the authority, duties, responsibilities, reporting relationships and measure of accomplishment for the functional position of the Process Technician of All-Plastics. BASIC FUNCTION:

Assists Process Technicians with implementing molding process improvements using scientific methods ... A.) in Mechanical, Electrical or Plastics Engineering (plastics preferred) required; plus three or ...

Assists Process Technicians with implementing molding process improvements using scientific methods ... A.) in Mechanical, Electrical or Plastics Engineering (plastics preferred) required; plus three or ...

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Plastics Process Technician information

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$13

$24

$35

How much do plastics process technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 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:

What are popular job titles related to Plastics Process Technician jobs?

For Plastics Process Technician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Plastics Process Technician job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,319 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Process Technician I (Injection Molding, Plastics)

Charlotte, NC • On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Perform standard mold changes, startups, and basic process adjustments following established procedures.

  • Monitor injection molding machines, respond to process issues, and troubleshoot routine problems to minimize downtime and scrap.

  • Assist with setting up and operating auxiliary equipment and robotic material-handling systems used in the injection molding process.


Job description

About Schaefer PlasticsAt Schaefer Plastics, we manufacture industry-leading solutions and drive responsible practices towards a sustainable future for generations to come. As a family-owned company since 1937, we are deeply committed to delivering exceptional customer care through high-quality, innovative waste and packaging solutions. Our customers and their satisfaction are paramount to our business; we strive to understand their needs and exceed their expectations at every turn. We are a global injection molding manufacturer, producing durable waste and recycling carts, and pioneering reusable packaging systems that reduce carbon footprints. Our dynamic and inclusive culture fosters personal and professional growth, making us an ideal employer for career advancement.Position Summary

The Process Technician I supports the safe and efficient operation of injection molding equipment. This developmental-level role performs standard mold and job changes, machine startups, basic process adjustments, and routine troubleshooting while building proficiency across Schaefer’s machines, molds, robots, and auxiliary systems.

What You’ll Do
  • Complete standard mold changes and startups with guidance, following approved setup sheets and procedures.
  • Recognize common process and quality problems and make approved adjustments within established parameters.
  • Load, reference, and make basic setpoint adjustments to existing robot programs.
  • Identify when a problem requires assistance from a higher-level Process Technician, Maintenance, Quality, or supervision.
  • Develop working knowledge of resin and regrind requirements, mold versions, hot-stamp setups, and machine-specific safety controls.
  • Monitor injection molding machines and respond promptly to process-related issues to reduce downtime and scrap.
  • Start up and adjust machines to support safe, efficient production and consistent product quality.
  • Perform mold changes, insert changes, version changes, and date-code verification according to established procedures.
  • Set up and operate auxiliary equipment used in the injection molding process.
  • Set up, reference, and operate robotic material-handling equipment appropriate to the assigned level.
  • Complete first-piece verification and required production, mold-change, and shift documentation accurately.
  • Inspect in-process and finished product; identify defects and take or escalate corrective action.
  • Assist Maintenance with troubleshooting and repairs involving machines, molds, heaters, thermocouples, and auxiliary equipment.
  • Follow lockout/tagout, crane and sling inspection, machine-guarding, PPE, and all other safety requirements.
  • Maintain a clean, organized work area and communicate production or quality concerns during shift handoffs.
  • Perform other duties and provide overtime or shift coverage as assigned based on business needs.
What Distinguishes Level I

Successful Level I technicians safely complete routine changes and startups, recognize abnormal conditions, make basic approved adjustments, document their work accurately, and ask for support before quality or equipment risks increase.

Qualifications
  • One or more years of hands-on manufacturing, mold-setting, machine setup, or related technical experience preferred.
  • Injection molding experience or formal plastics/process training is strongly preferred.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools and measuring devices safely.
  • Ability to follow setup sheets, work instructions, safety rules, and escalation procedures.
  • Basic computer skills and the ability to complete electronic and written production records.
  • Willingness and ability to complete Schaefer’s technical training and demonstrate required Level I competencies.
Core Skills
  • Mechanical and process troubleshooting
  • Safety and quality discipline
  • Clear shift-to-shift communication
  • Teamwork and knowledge sharing
  • Organization, documentation, and follow-through
  • Adaptability in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
Schedule and Attendance

This position supports a 24/7 manufacturing operation and may be assigned to a rotating 12-hour day or night schedule, including weekends and holidays. Overtime, schedule changes, and shift coverage may be required based on production needs.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment
  • Work is performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moving mechanical parts, vibration, elevated work areas, and moderate to loud noise.
  • Regularly stand and walk; use hands and arms; and occasionally climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • Push, pull, lift, carry, or otherwise move up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Wear required personal protective equipment and work safely around injection molding machines, robots, cranes, molds, and auxiliary equipment.
Compensation

The anticipated base pay range for this position is $24.00–$29.00 per hour. The actual starting rate will be based on relevant experience, demonstrated technical capability, shift assignment, internal equity, and other job-related factors. This position is eligible for overtime pay in accordance with applicable law.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Schaefer Plastics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicant Data & Privacy Notice


Schaefer Plastics North America, LLC collects and uses the personal information you provide during the application and recruiting process to evaluate your qualifications, communicate with you, schedule interviews, make hiring decisions, and, if selected, complete offer and onboarding activities. Applicant information may include your resume, contact information, work history, education, skills, interview notes, references, and other information you choose to provide or that is needed for the position. Please do not submit sensitive personal information irrelevant to the role, such as Social Security numbers, banking information, medical information, copies of identification, or other unnecessary personal documents, unless specifically requested at the appropriate stage of the hiring process. Your information will only be shared with individuals who have a legitimate need to know for recruiting and hiring purposes, such as Human Resources, recruiters, hiring managers, interview participants, and approved service providers or systems used in the recruiting process. Applicant information will not be forwarded to other departments, locations, or legal entities, or considered for unrelated future openings unless permitted by law or you have provided the required consent. Applicant records will be retained only as long as necessary for recruiting, legal, compliance, and recordkeeping purposes, and then deleted or destroyed in accordance with applicable retention requirements. If we would like to keep your information on file for future opportunities, we will request your consent where required.

Questions about how applicant data is handled may be directed to Human Resources or to the appropriate SSI SCHAEFER data protection contact.