How Much Does a Molding Operator make?

Molding Operator made a median salary around $47,021 in March, 2025. The best-paid 25 percent made $52,903 probably that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made around $41,698. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Check out Molding Operator jobs in South Dakota

Assembly/Molding Operator

PorchLight - Madison, SD

CDL-A Owner Operator

Ozark Motor Lines - OWENSBORO, KY

CDL-A Owner Operator

Ozark Motor Lines - BOWLING GREEN, KY

Class A OTR Owner Operator

US Expediting & Logistics LLC - VANDALIA, OH

download asset banner
Facing Salary Structure Challenges? Let Our Expert Guide You
The job market is increasingly challenging. Our whitepaper, Navigating the Challenges of Creating Salary Structures, offers guidance on creating salary structures. Provide your phone number and work email to download the full version.
We will handle your contact details in line with our Privacy Policy. If you prefer not to receive marketing emails from Salary.com, you can opt-out out of marketing communications at any time by clicking unsubscribe.

Best-Paying Cities for Molding Operator

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Molding Operator profession are Bullhead , Herreid , Keldron , Lemmon , Little Eagle .
Bullhead, SD $51,205
Herreid, SD $51,205
Keldron, SD $51,205
Lemmon, SD $51,205
Little Eagle, SD $51,205

Best-Paying States for Molding Operator

The states and districts that pay Molding Operator the highest salary are District of Columbia (around $58,214) , California (around $57,691) , New Jersey (around $57,324) , Alaska (around $56,958) , and Massachusetts (around $56,906) .
District of Columbia $58,214
California $57,691
New Jersey $57,324
Alaska $56,958
Massachusetts $56,906

What is the Career Path of Molding Operator?

A career path is a sequence of jobs that leads to your short- and long-term career goals. Some follow a linear career path within one field, while others change fields periodically to achieve career or personal goals.

For Molding Operator, the first career path typically progresses to Injection Molding Machine Operator III.

The second career path typically starts with a Machine Operator III position , and then progresses to Machine Operator Supervisor.

The third career path typically starts with a Machinist III position , and then progresses to Machine Shop Production Supervisor I.

Additionally, the fourth career path typically starts with a Computer Numeric Controlled Machine Operator II position , and then progresses to Computer Numeric Controlled Machine Operator III.

Frequently Asked Questions for Molding Operator

Q: What is the salary range of Molding Operator in South Dakota?
A: In 2025 , the lowest-paid Molding Operator in South Dakota earned an average annual salary of $41,698 , while the highest-paid made $52,903.
Q: What is the salary for a Molding Operator in California?
A: Molding Operator employed in California earned an average salary of $57,691 in 2025.

Average Molding Operator Pay vs. Other Jobs

Molding Operator earned an average salary of $47,021 in 2025. Other jobs related to Molding Operator earned the following average salary in March, 2025. Molding Machine Operator made $38,818 , Injection Molding Operator made $45,386 , Injection Molding Machine Operator II and Injection Molding Machine Operator I made $43,565 and $38,584 respectively .

Relevant Jobs of Molding Operator

Molding Machine Operator - Average Salary $38,818
There is currently no job description for Molding Machine Operator, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Molding Machine Operator.
Injection Molding Operator - Average Salary $45,386
There is currently no job description for Injection Molding Operator, be the first to submit the job responsibilities for Injection Molding Operator.
Injection Molding Machine Operator II - Average Salary $43,565
Sets up and operates injection molding machinery to shape plastics. Reads and interprets blueprints and diagrams to select, position, and secure machinery. Adjusts machine settings to complete tasks accurately, according to specifications, and in a timely fashion. May have to complete an apprenticeship and/or formal training in area of specialty. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Works under moderate supervision. Gaining or has attained full proficiency in a specific area of discipline. Typically requires 1-3 years of related experience.
Injection Molding Machine Operator I - Average Salary $38,584
Sets up and operates injection molding machinery to shape plastics. Reads and interprets blueprints and diagrams to select, position, and secure machinery. Adjusts machine settings to complete tasks accurately, according to specifications, and in a timely fashion. May have to complete an apprenticeship and/or formal training in area of specialty. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience.
Injection Molding Machine Operator III - Average Salary $50,830
Sets up and operates injection molding machinery to shape plastics. Reads and interprets blueprints and diagrams to select, position, and secure machinery. Adjusts machine settings to complete tasks accurately, according to specifications, and in a timely fashion. May have to complete an apprenticeship and/or formal training in area of specialty. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Typically requires 3-5 years of related experience.