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Plastic Injection Machine Operator Jobs in Minnesota

... plastic and metal additive technologies, CNC machining, injection molding & tooling, urethane casting, sheet metal fabrication, and design and engineering. Machine Operator Position Summary: The ...

Machine Operator 1 - 3rd shift

Clearwater, MN ยท On-site

$21.85 - $27.60/hr

O. Plastics has manufactured quality custom thermoformed parts and packaging and provided ... Performs production operations, monitors machine performance, completes minor quality control ...

Press Operator Class B

Lindstrom, MN ยท On-site

$15.98 - $16.98/hr

INJECTION MOLDING PRESS OPERATOR We are seeking qualified individuals for the position of Injection ... Proper operation of the injection molding machines as well as auxiliary equipment * Includes ...

Our client, a leader in sustainable manufacturing and plastic recycling, is seeking a dedicated CNC Machine Operator to join their team. As a CNC Machine Operator, you will be an integral part of the ...

Toolmaker

Lester Prairie, MN ยท On-site

$40.50 - $52/hr

Associate's degree or diploma in Tool & Die, Precision Machining, or related machine trades program * Experience: 2-5 years of hands-on experience with plastic injection mold assembly, disassembly ...

Toolmaker

Lester Prairie, MN ยท On-site

$40.50 - $52/hr

Associate's degree or diploma in Tool & Die, Precision Machining, or related machine trades program * Experience: 2-5 years of hands-on experience with plastic injection mold assembly, disassembly ...

Manufacturing Operator

Chaska, MN ยท On-site

$18.75 - $22.50/hr

The injection molding machine operator produces a variety of high-quality plastic components from resin pellets that are utilized by both internal and external customers. In this role you will ...

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Plastic Injection Machine Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do plastic injection machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic injection machine operator in Minnesota is $17.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Plastic Injection Machine Operator vs Plastic Molding Technician?

AspectPlastic Injection Machine OperatorPlastic Molding Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical training or certification
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, operating machineryManufacturing plants, setting up and troubleshooting molds
Job FocusOperating injection molding machinesMaintaining, troubleshooting, and setting up molds
Common UsageProduction line roles in plastics manufacturingProcess improvement and mold management roles

While both roles work within plastics manufacturing, Plastic Injection Machine Operators primarily focus on operating and monitoring injection molding machines. Plastic Molding Technicians handle mold setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The roles often overlap but differ in technical responsibilities and scope of work.

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

To thrive as a Plastic Injection Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with injection molding machines, quality control tools, and basic computer systems is essential, and some positions may require specific safety or technical certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators quickly identify defects and collaborate with maintenance or quality teams. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure efficient production, maintain high product standards, and support workplace safety.

What are Plastic Injection Machine Operators?

Plastic Injection Machine Operators are skilled workers who set up, operate, and maintain machines that mold plastic parts and products. They monitor the production process, ensure machines are functioning correctly, and inspect finished items for quality. Their responsibilities may include adjusting machine settings, loading materials, troubleshooting minor issues, and performing routine maintenance. These operators play a critical role in manufacturing industries that produce plastic components for various applications such as automotive, electronics, and consumer goods.

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

Plastic Injection Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, managing machine downtime, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. To address these issues, operators rely on regular equipment checks, following strict maintenance schedules, and collaborating closely with quality control and maintenance teams. Keeping detailed production records and staying updated on machine specifications can help minimize errors and ensure smooth operations. Effective communication and ongoing training also play a crucial role in overcoming these challenges and enhancing efficiency.
What are popular job titles related to Plastic Injection Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota? For Plastic Injection Machine Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

CNC Operator - 1st or 2nd Shift

Fathom Mfg

Andover, MN โ€ข On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Dahlquist Machine

Dahlquist Machine by Fathom is the premier precision machining company in America with over 30 state-of-the-art CNC mills and lathes paired with over 50 years of industry experience. Centrally located in a northern suburb of Minneapolis, Dahlquist Machine produces high-quality products with 100% on-time deliveryโ€”specializing in short- to medium-run quantities for high precision light metals, aluminum, and plastic parts.

Fathom Manufacturing

Fathom is one of the largest digital manufacturing platforms offering on-demand manufacturing in North America. With more than 90 large-platform industrial-grade 3D printing machines and a national footprint with more than 500,000 square feet of manufacturing capacity across 12 facilities, Fathom seamlessly blends in-house capabilities across plastic and metal additive technologies, CNC machining, injection molding & tooling, urethane casting, sheet metal fabrication, and design and engineering.

Machine Operator Position Summary:

The Machine Operator plays an essential role in supporting production by loading, monitoring, and adjusting CNC machines across turning and milling departments. This position focuses on basic machine operation, including loading raw materials, monitoring cycle times, performing simple offsets, and unloading finished parts. By maintaining strong attention to detail and following established procedures, the Machine Operator helps ensure consistent part quality and on-time delivery.

Through close collaboration with Machinists and Supervisors, the Machine Operator contributes to a safe, efficient, and well-organized production floor. This position is well-suited for an individual with foundational manufacturing experience who is looking to build CNC skills and grow professionally in alignment with Fathomโ€™s on-demand manufacturing vision.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Load and unload raw materials and finished parts from CNC turning and milling machines
  • Monitor machines during production cycles, watching for alarms, unusual sounds, or visual defects
  • Perform basic adjustments such as tool offsets under the direction of a Machinist or Supervisor
  • Deburr, clean, and prepare parts between operations as required
  • Conduct basic visual and dimensional checks using hand tools (calipers, micrometers) to verify parts meet specifications
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with company safety and housekeeping standards
  • Communicate with Machinists and Supervisors regarding machine status, part quality concerns, and material needs
  • Assist with material handling, staging, and movement of work-in-process between operations
  • Follow all company quality, safety, and EH&S procedures
  • Support Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives as directed

Qualifications/Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 6โ€“12 months of experience in a manufacturing or machine shop environment preferred
  • Basic familiarity with CNC machines and shop floor operations
  • Ability to read and follow work instructions and routers
  • Basic ability to use hand measurement tools (calipers, micrometers)
  • Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 lbs
  • Able to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
  • Capable of handling sensitive and confidential information
  • Good communication skills for effective teamwork

Hours: 5:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m. Monday - Thursday

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9.