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Plastic Grinder Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Inpro

Plastic Grinder Operator - 3rd shift

Muskego, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Muskego, WI - World Headquarters As our Plastic Grinder Operator, you will mainly be responsible for loading and unloading our products. Job duties may require the following: What you will do:

Allegiance Staffing

Grinder Operator

Salisbury, NC

$12.50 - $14.50/hr

Grinder Operator-- 1st Shift Pay: $12.50-$14.50/hr (based on experience) Shift: Monday-Friday, 1st ... Inspect scrap materials for foreign debris (wood, plastic, metal, glass, etc.) * Identify and ...

Menasha Corporation

Grinder Operator

Greenville, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

... grinding throughput. Hook up bulk trucks as required. Fill in for operators as needed. Work in a ... Our companies are leading corrugated and plastic packaging manufacturers and supply chain solution ...

Menasha Corporation

Grinder Operator

Greenville, TX · On-site

$15.25 - $19/hr

... records grinding throughput. • Hook up bulk trucks as required. • Fill in for operators as ... Our companies are leading corrugated and plastic packaging manufacturers and supply chain solution ...

Tegra Medical

Grinding Operator

Franklin, MA · On-site

$17.75 - $22/hr

Machine materials other than metal, such as composites, plastic, and rubber. Qualifications * Experience operating grinding equipment helpful. Experience in medical device manufacturing, aerospace ...

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Plastic Grinder Operator information

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How much do plastic grinder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic grinder operator in the United States is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Plastic Grinder Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial grinders, basic maintenance tools, and safety protocols—often supported by OSHA training—is important. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and effective communication help operators address issues quickly and work well with team members. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation and quality output in a manufacturing environment.

What does a Plastic Grinder Operator do?

A Plastic Grinder Operator is responsible for operating machines that grind, crush, or pulverize plastic materials, such as scrap or defective parts, into smaller pieces for recycling or reprocessing. They monitor equipment performance, adjust settings, and ensure the resulting material meets specified size and quality standards. Operators also perform routine maintenance on the machinery and follow safety procedures to prevent accidents. This role is essential in plastic manufacturing and recycling industries to reduce waste and support sustainable production processes.

What is the difference between Plastic Grinder Operator vs Plastic Recycling Technician?

AspectPlastic Grinder OperatorPlastic Recycling Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications in machinery operationHigh school diploma; certifications in recycling processes or equipment
Work EnvironmentFactories or manufacturing plants handling plastic wasteRecycling facilities or waste management plants
Job FocusOperating grinders to process plastic materialsSorting, inspecting, and managing recycled plastics

Both roles involve working in plastic processing environments and may require similar certifications. However, the Plastic Grinder Operator primarily focuses on operating grinding machinery, while the Plastic Recycling Technician handles broader recycling processes, including sorting and quality control.

What are some common challenges faced by Plastic Grinder Operators, and how can they be effectively managed?

Plastic Grinder Operators often encounter challenges such as handling jammed machinery, maintaining consistent material quality, and managing dust and noise in the work environment. To effectively manage these issues, operators should follow proper lockout/tagout procedures, perform routine equipment checks, and wear appropriate personal protective equipment. Clear communication with maintenance teams and adherence to safety protocols also help in minimizing downtime and ensuring a safe, productive workflow.
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Plastic Grinder Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Grinder Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Locum Tenens, 81% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $40,454 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Plastic Grinder Operator - 3rd shift

Plastic Grinder Operator - 3rd shift

Inpro Corporation

Muskego, WI

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

**Successful hires for this position will receive a $1,000 sign on bonus after 90 days of employment!**

Hours & Location

  • 3rd shift - Monday – Friday; 10:50pm-7:00am 
  • Muskego, WI - World Headquarters

As our Plastic Grinder Operator, you will mainly be responsible for loading and unloading our products.  Job duties may require the following:

What you will do:

  • Identify the color and type of plastic scrap received, then move, organize, and store material in preparation for the grinding process.
  • Inspect incoming gaylord boxes and liners for the presence of foreign objects and unlike plastics that could damage the scrap grinder cutters or contaminate finished product.
  • Prepare gaylord boxes and stage empty box at grinder output.
  • Operate grinder by engaging machine, loading scrap material, monitoring machine performance, and retrieving processed plastic.
  • Mark each incoming and outgoing filled gaylord box using a tag that identifies the type of plastic and other required properties.
  • Enter written words and numbers in neat and legible handwriting on identification tags and other required inventory and production forms.
  • Transport gaylord boxes and other materials using forklift trucks or hand pallet trucks while following safe operating procedures and observing for pedestrian traffic.
  • Place gaylord boxes, pallets, and other supplies in a manner as to not block or interfere with isles, exits, or walkways.
  • Maintain clean work and storage areas and follow good housekeeping procedures.
  • Use FIFO method.
  • All other duties as assigned.

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Communicate with other employees in the warehouse and production.
    • Manage time and set priorities daily.
    • May need to fill in for Extrusion and Receiving needs.
    • Meet or exceed customer expectations.

    Requirements: 

    • Ability to follow instructions with attention to detail. Must be able to work independently.
    • Ability to comprehend written and verbal communications.
    • Ability to distinguish colors.
    • Basic math skills.
    • Ability to operate a fork truck and/or aerial lifts.
    • A positive attitude with a strong dedication to providing quality work.
    • High School Diploma or equivalent
    • Prior shipping or warehouse experience preferred.

      Benefits

      • Health insurance
      • Dental insurance
      • Generous company 401(k) contributions 
      • Flexible spending account
      • Tuition reimbursement
      • Generous paid time off
      • Employee assistance program
      • Vision insurance
      • Employee discount
      • Life insurance
      • Referral program
      • Monthly bonus Opportunities

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