Skilled Trades

Plastics Technician

SOC 51-9199 · ESCO 3119 · OSCA 399936

Role snapshot

Overview

A Plastics Technician is responsible for the setup, operation, and maintenance of plastics processing machinery such as injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming equipment. They monitor production, adjust machine parameters like temperature, pressure, and cycle times to ensure product quality and efficiency, and perform troubleshooting and basic repairs to maintain continuous operation.

Ensures the efficient and high-quality production of essential plastic components, supporting various industries from automotive to medical devices and consumer goods.

On the job

Set up and calibrate plastics processing machinery, including molds, dies, and auxiliary equipment.
Monitor machine operations, product quality, and material flow, making adjustments as necessary.
Adjust machine settings suchs as temperature, pressure, and cycle times to optimize production and meet quality specifications.
Perform routine preventative maintenance and troubleshoot operational issues or product defects.
Inspect finished products for defects, ensuring they meet dimensional and quality standards.

Tools & technology

Injection molding machinesExtrusion machinesThermoforming machinesCalipers and micrometersHand tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers)

Average salary

$55K

MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD

$40K Bottom 10%

$70K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Vocational certificate or associate's degree in plastics technology, manufacturing, or a related technical field is typically required.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Lead Plastics Technician

Process Engineer (with further education)

CURRENT ROLE

Plastics Technician

Skilled Trades

ADJACENT MOVES

Maintenance Technician

Production Assembler

Machine Operator

Manufacturing Apprentice

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

realistic · RCI

Individuals who enjoy hands-on work with machinery, solving practical problems, and maintaining precise standards in a structured manufacturing environment tend to excel in this role.

Personality characteristics

Methodical

Approaches tasks in a systematic and organized manner, ensuring processes are followed accurately and efficiently.

Practical

Prefers concrete, hands-on tasks and problem-solving over abstract concepts or theoretical discussions.

Composed

Maintains a calm and steady demeanor, even when facing machine breakdowns or production pressures.

Independent

Capable of working autonomously on machine operations and troubleshooting, often for extended periods.

Cooperative

Works effectively with team members on shift changes, maintenance, and problem-solving.

Best for

Individuals who enjoy working directly with machinery and technical systems.
Those who thrive in structured environments where precision and quality are paramount.
People who like to diagnose and fix mechanical issues to keep operations running smoothly.

Watch out for

The work environment can be noisy and requires adherence to strict safety protocols.
Tasks can be repetitive, requiring sustained attention to detail over long periods.
Occasional weekend work or shift rotations may be required in manufacturing settings.