Plastics Processing Apprentice

ALPLA; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

ALPLA in Iowa City is offering an Apprenticeship in Plastics Processing & Mechatronics. You’ll gain hands-on training in extrusion blow-molding, with college classes paid for by the employer and a paid apprenticeship model.

The ICATT program runs 3 years of training plus 2 years of full-time employment, with salary growth during training and an average post-training salary around $50,000+ per year. Relocation is available for this on-site role.

Qualifications

• Program combines hands-on study with college coursework through ICATT and Kirkwood Community College.
• Ages 18+; college-ready students are welcome to apply.
• Relocation may be required after completing the program.

Responsibilities

• Support setup, operation and optimization of plastics manufacturing processes, focusing on extrusion blow-molding.
• Assist with machine operation and quality checks to ensure product quality.
• Learn foundational skills to ensure safe, efficient production of high-quality plastic packaging.

Skills

Mechatronics

Education

AAS degree

German Certification

Job description

Alpla Inc.

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.