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Pellet Machine Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TekniPlex is hiring a Machine Operator for our Clayton, NC facility. The pay for this role is $23 ... Set-up/Changeover extruder according to specification using material in pellet form to produce ...

TekniPlex is hiring a Machine Operator for our Clayton, NC facility. The pay for this role is $23 ... Set-up/Changeover extruder according to specification using material in pellet form to produce ...

Pellet Mill Attendant I

Wolcott, NY · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for performing independent and team-oriented duties related to operating the bagging line and ensuring standard safety and sanitation operating procedures and ...

... various operating divisions. We are committed to creating accessible environments for our ... pellet plant and our Juniper Farms peat bog production facility. Our team of over 2,000 ...

Production Operator

Buhl, ID · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

This role may involve operating equipment such as an extruder, grinder, mixer, or pellet machine, as well as working in the warehouse. This role also includes packaging, filling, assisting with ...

Production Operator

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

This role may involve operating equipment such as an extruder, grinder, mixer, or pellet machine, as well as working in the warehouse. This role also includes packaging, filling, assisting with ...

Production Operator

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

This role may involve operating equipment such as an extruder, grinder, mixer, or pellet machine, as well as working in the warehouse. This role also includes packaging, filling, assisting with ...

Production Operator

Buhl, ID · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

This role may involve operating equipment such as an extruder, grinder, mixer, or pellet machine, as well as working in the warehouse. This role also includes packaging, filling, assisting with ...

Production Operator

Clackamas, OR · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

This role may involve operating equipment such as an extruder, grinder, mixer, or pellet machine, as well as working in the warehouse. This role also includes packaging, filling, assisting with ...

Production Operator

Buhl, ID · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

This role may involve operating equipment such as an extruder, grinder, mixer, or pellet machine, as well as working in the warehouse. This role also includes packaging, filling, assisting with ...

Operate machinery in a productive manner using the established safety guidelines and procedures ... Position requires accurate completion of the Bagger production report, filling pellet sample cups ...

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Pellet Machine Operator information

See salary details

$13

$20

$28

How much do pellet machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for pellet machine operator in the United States is $20.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Pellet Machine Operators face during a typical shift, and how can they be managed?

Pellet Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment jams, inconsistent material feed, and maintaining optimal machine temperatures. Managing these issues requires regular monitoring, quick troubleshooting skills, and adherence to safety protocols. Team communication is also crucial, as operators frequently coordinate with maintenance and quality control staff to prevent downtime and ensure product quality. Proactive maintenance and attention to detail help minimize disruptions and improve overall efficiency.

What does a Pellet Machine Operator do?

A Pellet Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machines that compress raw materials into pellets, typically used for fuel, animal feed, or other industrial applications. Their duties include setting up the pellet mill, monitoring production processes, adjusting machine settings, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring the final product meets quality standards. They may also be involved in routine maintenance and cleaning of equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation. Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pellet Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pellet Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial pellet machines, safety protocols, and sometimes forklift certification are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication help operators manage production quality and respond to issues quickly. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation and consistent output in industrial manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Pellet Machine Operator vs Pellet Mill Worker?

AspectPellet Machine OperatorPellet Mill Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training on machineryHigh school diploma, technical training often required
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plantsFactories, manufacturing plants
Job DutiesOperate pellet machines, monitor productionAssist in pellet production, maintenance tasks
Industry UsageCommonly used in biomass, animal feed industriesUsed in similar industries, often overlapping roles

Both roles involve working in manufacturing environments and require similar certifications. The Pellet Machine Operator typically focuses on operating and monitoring pellet machinery, while the Pellet Mill Worker may assist with production and maintenance tasks. The roles are closely related, with overlapping duties in pellet production industries.

More about Pellet Machine Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Pellet Machine Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,326 per year, or $20.3 per hour.
Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Machine Operator - 3rd Shift

Tekni-Plex

Clayton, NC • On-site

$23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


TekniPlex rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 110 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Imagine: A Career with Purpose and Possibility
Picture this: You are part of a global team of problem-solvers whose innovations in materials science can make life better. Every day, you help turn ideas into impact using science, technology, and creativity to tackle real-world challenges. You are part of a company whose work helps improve patient outcomes in healthcare and protects essential consumer goods that people around the world rely on every day.
At TekniPlex, you'll join more than 8,000 colleagues across 12 countries, all united by one purpose: creating safer, smarter solutions that touch daily life. Through our two divisions, TekniPlex Healthcare and TekniPlex Consumer Products, you'll help shape industries that matter: healthcare, pharmaceutical, food & beverage, beauty, and personal care.
Here, your ideas count and your work matters. You'll be encouraged to think boldly, collaborate across cultures, and keep growing every step of the way. You will help protect the integrity of essential products, support patient safety and comfort, and contribute to innovations that make everyday life better, all while building a career that makes an impact.
Because at TekniPlex, you don't just deliver products - you help shape what's next.
JOB SUMMARY
Since 1976, TekniPlex Healthcare, located in Clayton, NC, has been producing medical tubing for a wide range of medical device applications including IV therapy, respiratory, dialysis, anesthesia, diagnostic and surgical equipment. We are actively recruiting for individuals who have a passion for producing a quality product that saves thousands of lives every day. TekniPlex is hiring a Machine Operator for our Clayton, NC facility. The pay for this role is $23.00 and up per hour depending on experience.
3rd Shift Machine Operator
Sunday - Thursday
11:00 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. plus overtime as needed
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Set-up/Changeover extruder according to specification using material in pellet form to produce products meeting customer specifications, dimensions and weight.
  • Troubleshoot all related equipment, including extruder and controls.
  • Make machine adjustments to ensure product meets dimensional and physical specifications, including adjustments to dies, speed and temperature.
  • Ability to install and change appropriate tooling (cores, dies, head, screens, etc.).
  • Weigh and mix pelletized materials according to production work order.
  • Understanding of polymer resins and drying requirements.
  • Complete product traceability, logs, production reports, data entry, etc. as required to document extrusion related activities.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • 3 years of manufacturing experience; preferably in extrusion or injection molding.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds on an occasional basis.
  • Must be able to obtain forklift certification through the company.
  • Ability to stand for 8 hours or more.

TekniPlex provides a comprehensive and flexible benefits program that you can customize to fit your personal needs. Our programs offer you and your family health care coverage and financial security. You can take advantage of life insurance, disability coverage and voluntary benefits for extra financial protection and peace of mind. Plus, our work-life benefits provide support and assistance whenever you need it.
  • Some of your benefits are paid in full by TekniPlex and some costs are shared between you and TekniPlex. Other benefits are made available to you at reasonable group rates.
  • Medical Coverage
  • Prescription Drug Coverage
  • Telemedicine
  • Dental Coverage
  • Vision Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Basic Term Life/AD&D Insurance
  • Voluntary Life/AD&D Insurance
  • Short Term Disability (STD)
  • Long Term Disability (LTD
  • Voluntary Buy-Up LTD
  • Hospital Indemnity
  • Accident Insurance
  • Critical Illness
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • Daily Pay
  • Business Travel Insurance
  • Legal Plan
  • Identity Protection

LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and legibly complete time cards and work orders. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures and read blueprints and technical drawings, such as machine, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small groups situations to other employees of the organization. Ability to effective present information and respond to questions form groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra, geometry, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of variable in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; toxic, flammable or caustic chemicals; outside weather conditions; and extreme heat. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Equal Opportunity Company
Tekniplex is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender, national origin, age, United States military veteran's status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, family structure, medical condition including genetic characteristics or information, veteran status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law.
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.

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About Tekni-Plex

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Wayne, PA, US

Year founded

1967

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