Plastics Processing Apprentice

ALPLA Group; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

ALPLA Group invites applicants to join the ICATT Apprenticeship Program in Iowa City for a Mechatronics pathway. Earn while you learn, with college-supported training and a paid work schedule. The program includes a 3-year training track culminating in an AAS degree and hands-on experience in plastics processing.

Relocation is available, and salaries average around $50,000+ after training, with progression as responsibilities grow across ALPLA's manufacturing sites.

Qualifications

• AAS degree in Mechatronics or equivalent certification is required.
• German Certification or proficiency is preferred for the program.
• Willing to relocate after program completion to ALPLA locations.

Responsibilities

• Mechatronics work, including setup and operation of equipment.
• Work with dedicated trainers and apply theoretical lessons to practice.
• Assist with production processes focusing on extrusion blow-molding.
• Support quality checks, material handling and troubleshooting of issues.

Education

AAS degree in Mechatronics

German Certification

Job description

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled packaging for top companies such as P&G, Unilever, L'Oréal, Pepsi, and more. ALPLA values their employees, work-life balance, personal growth, compensation and sustainability.

An Apprenticeship in Plastics Processing & Mechatronics. Countless skills for you!

Program Begins: August 24th, 2026

*** This position is on-site in Iowa City, IA. Relocation is available.

What Is The ALPLA Apprenticeship?

Opportunity for a new career path & education (ages 18 & up/college ready students)

• Mechatronics – AAS degree & German Certification
• Pathway to crisis-proof employment

As an ALPLA apprentice, you are in the best care. During our program, you'll gain hands-on, real-world experience and be prepared for a long-lasting career. We look forward to receiving your application and can't wait for you to join us during this step in your career.

ICATT APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

• Earn While You Learn: Earns money each week while working and going to college
• College is part of your training and paid for by your employer
• Pay rate increases every year during training with experience and responsibilities
• 3 years training & classes earning AAS degree at Kirkwood Community College + 2 years full-time employment in career path
• Becoming a leader in the next generation of advanced manufacturers in the US Mechatronics
• Credentials are recognized nationally and around the world
• Dept of Labor Apprenticeship Certification
• DIHK International Credential
• Salaries after the training average $50,000+

What will apprentices be doing?

• Mechatronics
• Work with dedicated trainers
• Application of theoretical practices via technical and practical lessons on proprietary equipment
• The main purpose of the Plastics Processing Apprentice role at ALPLA is to support the setup,
  operation, and optimization of plastics manufacturing processes with a focus on Extrusion Blow-Molding. This includes assisting with machine operation, quality checks, material handling, troubleshooting production issues, and learning the foundational skills required to ensure stable, safe, and efficient production of high-quality plastic packaging.

Due to the nature of our business, those with the most success must be willing to re-locate to any of our 17 plant locations after the completion of their 3 year program with ICATT, Kirkwood & ALPLA.

For More Information Visit

Home Page | Education ALPLA

#entrylevel #L&D

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.

For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.