How to Be Plastics Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 9, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Plastics technicians are responsible for maintaining and repairing plastic products and equipment. They must be knowledgeable in the types of plastics, their properties, and how to work with them. This requires an understanding of the various processes used to shape plastics into their desired form.

As a result, technicians must know the different methods of molding and machining, as well as be able to identify any defects in the finished product. In addition, they must be able to follow instructions and safety protocols, as well as have a good eye for detail. When plastic products are not working properly, plastics technicians are often called upon to diagnose problems and make repairs.

This requires troubleshooting skills and a thorough knowledge of the industry. The end result of an experienced plastics technician is a product that is safe and free from defects.

Steps How to Become

Obtain an education in plastics technology. Generally, this requires an associate's degree or a certificate from a trade school. Many colleges and universities offer associate's degree programs in plastics engineering technology, while trade schools often provide short-term certificate programs.
Gain experience in the field. Many plastics technology programs include internship opportunities that allow students to gain hands-on experience working with plastics in a professional environment. This can be a valuable asset when applying for jobs as a plastics technician.
Obtain certifications. There are a number of certifications available to plastics technicians, including the Certified Plastics Technician (CPT) and the Certified Plastics Engineer (CPE). These certifications can demonstrate to employers that a technician is knowledgeable and experienced in the field.
Consider specialized training. Many plastics companies offer specialized training programs that can give technicians an edge in the job market. These programs cover topics like injection molding, thermoforming, and plastics processing.
Find a job as a plastics technician. There are a variety of industries that hire plastics technicians, including automotive, aerospace, medical device, and packaging. Many plastics technicians also find work in manufacturing and product development.

As a plastics technician, it is essential to ensure that you are reliable and qualified. To do this, it is important to have the right training and education. This means understanding the processes and materials that are used in plastics manufacturing, such as molding, extrusion, and injection.

You should also be familiar with safety protocols and regulations that govern the industry. having experience with different types of plastics is also critical for success. All of these elements combined will give you the necessary skills to be reliable and qualified as a plastics technician.

Having this knowledge will help you to provide the best possible service to clients and ensure that their needs are met efficiently.

You may want to check Plastics Production Worker, Plastics Product Designer, and Plastic Film Processor for alternative.

Job Description

Troubleshoot plastic molding machines and processes
Monitor raw material levels, temperatures, pressures and other variables throughout the plastic manufacturing process
Set up and adjust machines for optimal performance and output
Perform regular maintenance on plastic molding equipment
Troubleshoot and repair plastic molding machinery
Debug new plastic molding projects
Develop new processes to improve the production of plastic parts
Perform quality control checks on plastic parts
Manage and maintain accurate records of production and inventory
Assist with the training of new technicians

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of plastic manufacturing processes and techniques
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
Understanding of polymers, resins and additives
Knowledge of plastic injection molding machines and operations
Experience with operating and troubleshooting injection molding machines
Ability to set up injection molds and troubleshoot molding defects
Knowledge of plastic shrinkage, warpage, and flow characteristics
Experience with post-molding operations such as trimming, grinding, and painting
Understanding of quality control processes and procedures
Ability to work with hand tools, measuring devices and other equipment
Excellent problem-solving skills
Ability to work with minimal supervision
Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills
Ability to lift 40 pounds

Having a good understanding of the properties of plastics is essential for a plastics technician. The ability to read, interpret and apply plastic material specifications is key to successful product development and manufacturing. This knowledge helps technicians select the best type and grade of plastic for the intended application.

Furthermore, knowing the various processes used to shape and form plastics is essential for proper selection of the necessary equipment and tooling. Without this knowledge, problems such as warping, deformation and cracking can occur. technicians must have the mechanical aptitude to maintain and troubleshoot plastic-forming machines.

This includes understanding the functions of the various parts and components, as well as their operation. Finally, the ability to read and understand blueprints and diagrams is important for creating plastic parts that meet the required specifications. By having a good understanding of all these aspects, a plastics technician will be able to produce high-quality plastic products that meet or exceed customer expectations.

Plastic Mold Maker, Plastic Artist, and Plastic Injection Molding Machine Operator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in plastic fabrication and molding?
How familiar are you with plastics engineering principles?
What do you know about the different types of plastics and their properties?
How do you ensure quality control for each plastic product you create?
Describe a project that you successfully completed involving plastics.
What safety protocols do you follow when working with plastics?
What measures do you take to troubleshoot and repair plastic products?
What computer-aided design (CAD) software have you used to create plastic products?
How do you stay up to date on the latest advancements in plastics technology?
How have you incorporated environmentally friendly principles into your plastics work?

Common Tools in Industry

Heat Gun. Tool used to heat plastic materials to make them easier to shape and mold. (eg: bending plastic pipes)
Soldering Iron. Tool used to join two or more pieces of metal together using a heated alloy. (eg: joining electrical wires)
Plastic Shears. Tool used to cut through plastic materials with greater precision than scissors. (eg: cutting plastic tubing)
Hand Drill. Tool used to drill holes into plastic materials. (eg: creating holes in plastic panels)
Heat Sealer. Tool used to seal two pieces of plastic material together using heat. (eg: sealing a plastic bag)
Measuring Tape. Tool used to measure plastic parts and materials accurately. (eg: measuring a plastic pipe for length)
Sander. Tool used to smooth out rough edges of plastic parts. (eg: smoothing the edges of a plastic part)
Glue Gun. Tool used to bond two pieces of plastic together using a heated adhesive. (eg: bonding two pieces of plastic together)
Plastic Welding Machine. Tool used to join two pieces of plastic together using melted plastic material. (eg: welding two pieces of plastic together)

Professional Organizations to Know

Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE)
American Chemistry Council (ACC)
Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR)
Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI)
International Association of Plastics Distributors (IAPD)
National Association for Plastic Molders & Manufacturers (NAPMM)
American Plastics Council (APC)
Plastics Industry Association (PIA)
Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI)
Association of Postconsumer Plastic Recyclers (APR)

We also have Plastic Fabrication Technician, Plastic Tool Maker, and Plastics Quality Inspector jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Injection Molding. A manufacturing process in which plastic is heated, then injected into a mold to create a desired shape.
Blow Molding. A manufacturing process in which plastic is softened, then blown into a mold to create a desired shape.
Extrusion. A manufacturing process in which plastic is heated and forced through a die to create a desired shape.
Thermoforming. A manufacturing process in which plastic is heated, then formed over a mold to create a desired shape.
Vacuum Forming. A manufacturing process in which plastic is heated, then formed under vacuum over a mold to create a desired shape.
Additives. Chemicals added to plastics during manufacturing to alter properties such as strength, color, and flexibility.
Resins. Raw material used for making plastics.
Polymers. Materials composed of long chains of molecules that are used to make plastics.
Compounding. The process of combining resins and additives to create a desired type of plastic.
Fabrication. The process of cutting and forming plastic parts or components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Plastics Technician?

A Plastics Technician is a professional who works with plastics materials to create products and components. They use a variety of tools and techniques to shape and form the plastic, such as injection molding, extrusion, and vacuum forming.

What qualifications are required to become a Plastics Technician?

To become a Plastics Technician, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as experience with plastics processing. Many employers also require formal training in plastics technology, such as a certificate or associate's degree in plastics technology.

What types of duties do Plastics Technicians perform?

Plastics Technicians are responsible for producing plastic components and products using injection molding, extrusion, and vacuum forming techniques. They measure and mix raw materials, set up molds and machines, monitor production processes, troubleshoot problems, and inspect finished products for quality control.

How much does a Plastics Technician make?

The median annual salary for a Plastics Technician is around $36,000. Salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and other factors.

What types of industries use Plastics Technicians?

Plastics Technicians work in a variety of industries that involve the production of plastic components and products. These include automotive, medical device manufacturing, aerospace, electronics, and consumer product industries.