What an injection molding operator does

What does an injection molding operator do?

An injection molding operator works beside a machine that makes plastic parts. The machine melts plastic, forces it into a steel mold, cools it, and opens to drop a finished part. The operator takes the parts, checks them, trims them, and packs them, and watches the machine for problems.

Here, our operators take parts out of the machine, inspect them, trim them and package them, and move to a different machine now and then. The production operator page has the job step by step.

Do you need experience or a degree?

Usually not a degree. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says people who run plastic and metal machines typically need a high school diploma and learn on the job, starting by helping experienced workers and moving on to adjusting equipment.

What is a shift like?

A shift is spent at the machine: take each part out, inspect it, trim it and pack it. Our operators move to a different machine now and then. Day shift runs 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and second shift runs 4:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Across the industry, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says most of these jobs are full time, and evening work is common.

Is the work physical?

Yes, in a steady way. Here you stand and sit for long stretches at your station, wear closed-toe shoes, and lift up to 50 pounds. The plant is climate controlled, and operators never deal with customers.

Is injection molding a good career?

It is steady work, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for plastic and metal machine workers will shrink by 7 percent from 2025 to 2035, but still expects about 78,100 openings a year as people retire or change jobs.

Operators who learn the machines can move toward setting up molds and adjusting the process. Here, employees who demonstrate consistent results, initiative, and readiness for the next role will be considered for advancement opportunities. Plants with their own tool rooms, like ours, also employ toolmakers, who build and repair the molds themselves.

What should I ask before I take the job?

Ask the things that decide whether the job works for your life: the pay, the shift, overtime, how much lifting there is, and who you report to. Here: $16.00 an hour on day shift and $16.25 on second, no overtime right now, lifting up to 50 pounds, and operators report to a floor supervisor. The job page has the rest.

How do I apply at Burco Molding?

Fill out the general application. It asks for your name, a phone number, the job, your shifts and when you could start, and you can finish it on a phone. Our HR team contacts you for next steps, usually within 48 hours. If you would like help, call 317-773-5699. Nothing on the form asks about your age, health, background or past pay.