As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for a Plastic Injection Molding Operator I in the United States is $43,000 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $21.
However, a Plastic Injection Molding Operator I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
Plastic Injection Molding Operator I Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $46,300 | $3,858 | $890 | $22 |
| Average | $43,000 | $3,583 | $827 | $21 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,400 | $3,283 | $758 | $19 |
A Plastic Injection Molding Operator I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Troubleshooting | 7.05% |
| Repairing | 2.85% |
| Hydraulics | 1.57% |
Mastering certain specialized skills can lead to a significant increase in pay. Here are examples of skills and the potential impact they can have on a Plastic Injection Molding Operator I's salary.
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Analysis | $48,160 | |
| Bill of Materials | $47,730 | |
| Initiative | $47,300 |
Plastic Injection Molding Operator I salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $48,443. While startup companies pay approximate $41,034.
| Company Size | Employees | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Startup | 1~50 | $41,034 |
| Growth Stage | 51~500 | $43,377 |
| Established | 501~5000 | $46,795 |
| Enterprise | 5000+ | $48,443 |
Understanding how a Plastic Injection Molding Operator I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $46,300 | $3,858 | $890 | $22 |
| Average | $43,000 | $3,583 | $827 | $21 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,400 | $3,283 | $758 | $19 |
Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Plastic Injection Molding Operator I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Extruder Operator II | $54,700 | 27% |
| Plastic Injection Molding Operator II | $48,600 | 13% |
| Intermediate Machine Operator | $45,500 | 6% |
| Milling Machine Technician II | $52,200 | 21% |
Salaries for a Plastic Injection Molding Operator I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $38,256 in 2023 to around $37,727 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Plastic Injection Molding Operator I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 | View More |
| 2023 | $38,256 |
| 2024 | $37,980 |
| 2025 | $37,727 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The MFG Nondurable industry offers the highest average compensation for Plastic Injection Molding Operator I roles, with salaries approximately 10% above the market median.
Plastic injection molding can be challenging, especially when dealing with small, complex parts that require intricate designs to achieve irregular geometries. Operators in this field earn between $39,400 and $49,200, with a median salary of $44,100, reflecting the skill and precision needed to navigate these manufacturing challenges effectively.
An Injection Mold Operator is responsible for managing the injection molding process, which includes changing molds, setting up machines, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining equipment. The role ensures efficient production and quality control. Salary ranges for this position typically fall between $39,400 and $49,200, with a mid-range salary of $44,100.
Plastic injection molding can be a rewarding career choice, offering competitive salaries ranging from $39,400 to $49,200, with a mid-salary of $44,100. The demand for skilled operators is high, providing opportunities for job stability and growth in various regions across the country.
Yes, plastic injection molding can be a good career choice. The industry is growing, and operators can expect salaries ranging from $39,400 to $49,200, with a median salary of $44,100. While the field is evolving with automation, it still offers stable job opportunities in the U.S.
While injection molding is ideal for producing complex parts, thermoforming excels in creating high-quality finished products. It is particularly effective for large-scale manufacturing and offers an efficient, cost-effective molding process. For those considering a career in this field, salaries for Plastic Injection Molding Operators range from $39,400 to $49,200, with a midpoint of $44,100.
The profitability of plastic injection molding largely depends on production volume. For large orders, it can be quite lucrative, while small quantities may yield limited profit due to high mold design and tooling costs. Operators in this field typically earn between $39,400 and $49,200, with a median salary of $44,100, reflecting the industry's potential profitability.
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