An injection molding machine operator works in manufacturing. They produce parts through the process of injecting molding. This manufacturing process involves the injection of materials into a mold. The materials could include plastics, metals, glass and more.
There can be a broad range of tasks involved in this role, and you could work in a number of different industries. As well as the technical skills for operating machinery, you’ll need to be able to communicate with supervisors and colleagues.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to become an injection molding machine operator, keep reading. You’ll find out what qualifications you need and the potential salaries that you can access.
What Does the Work Involve?
Working in injection molding can involve a broad spectrum of jobs related to operating machinery. Part of the role includes caring for machines and molds to ensure that the manufacturing process runs smoothly and that you produce quality products.
Operating the machines will also form an important part of your work day, including injecting materials into the molds. This process could use many different materials. They range from metals and plastics to glass and elastomers. Injection molding equipment is most commonly used with thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers.
After you have used the molds, you might have other tasks to perform. These tasks could include inspecting the resulting products, assembling parts or removing excess material. You could also be responsible for recording and developing manufacturing instructions and data sheets.
Education
You don’t need a degree to work in injection molding. However, you do need to have a high school diploma. Many people who choose this career continue their education to gain technical qualifications in plastic molding or similar.
Employers will often expect you to have several years of experience, but learning the trade will help you to get a foot in the door. For some roles, you may be able to enter the field with some industrial or manufacturing experience and train on the job. You can find courses in the subject by looking online and researching local technical schools and colleges.
You will be able to learn about the science and theoretical matter behind injection molding through an online course. But you should seek out a practical course if you want some hands-on experience.
What Can You Make?
The average salary for an injection molding technician is $17.23 per hour. This means that someone working in this trade could earn between $27,000 and $53,500 per year. Employees can earn more through overtime, profit sharing, and bonuses.
Having skills outside of injection molding can increase your chances of higher than average pay. For example, many more highly-paid technicians have skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Office. These skills help them to produce reports and monitor manufacturing processes. It’s typical for this job also to include medical cover, as well as dental cover.
If you’re interested in working in injection molding, it’s an excellent choice for job satisfaction. Apply your practical skills and look into working in the industry today.
