Plastic Process Technician

A Plastic Process Technicians primary job is to set up, monitor, and troubleshoot plastic injection-molding machines. This requires specialized knowledge of materials, specific tools, and equipment. Troubleshooting tasks might include dealing with inconsistent material, faulty equipment, human error, and preventing defects from occurring.

SELECT AN APPRENTICESHIP LOCATION

AJAC

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

Required Qualifications
  • 17 years of age
  • High school diploma/GED
  • Physically able
  • Completion of college Math and English classes or assessment test such as:
                - Compass Test     
                - World of Work Inventory
                - ASSET Test
Step 2: Gain Employment
Acquire Skills and Get Hired
  • Option 1: Attend 10-week pre-apprenticeship Manufacturing Academy
                  - then continue with Option 2 or 3
  • Option 2: Start a certification or degree program
                  - then continue with Option 3
Step 3: Apply
Apply
  • Once employed by a Participating Employer, ask employer to recommend you for apprenticeship
  • Sign an Apprenticeship Agreement with AJAC
Step 4: Begin Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship

  • 8,000 hours / 4 years on-the-job training
  • Minimum of 144 hours of education each year. Typically one night per week at local community or technical college

Wages

  • Start at 60% of current Journey-Level rate.
  • Gain 5% pay increase after every 1,000 hours of on-the-job training (approx. 6 months) plus required schooling.
  • Full 100% journeyperson’s pay after completing the program.

Estimated Starting Hourly Base Rate

   $21.31 + Benefits
    * Based on statewide average           

G.I. Bill® Housing Allowance

  • Usage is optional
  • Housing allowance can be found using the GI Bill® Comparison Tool
  • Search School Name:  AEROSPACE JOINT APPRENTICESHIP COMMITTEE

Calculate Starting Pay With GI Bill ®

Estimated Wage Calculator

All calculations based on a 120 hours/month work schedule.[CP_CALCULATED_FIELDS id="6"]

*Contact union local for updated wage information.

GI Bill Usage Breakdown:
100% - 1-6 months
80% - 6-12 months
60% - 12-18 months
40% - 18-24 months
20% - 24-30 months
*Usage Optional
Eligible veterans in an approved Apprenticeship Program can use their GI Bill® benefit and receive a tax-free stipend on a monthly basis. The Post 9/11 GI Bill® stipend is the equivalent of the Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) of an E-5 with dependents (based on the zip code of the training facility) which is paid addition to normal wages. Refer to the chart below to understand how Post 9/11 GI Bill® benefits are paid, or consult the VA website www.benefits.va.gov/gibill (Link) to see how other VA chapters are paid for Apprenticeship Training.