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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Operator- 3rd Shift

Oxford, CT · On-site

$17.94 - $24.50/hr

As an Operator at PTA Plastics, you will perform the necessary tasks of manufacturing an injection ... Operate plastic injection molding machines according to established procedures and guidelines.

Operator- 1st Shift

Oxford, CT · On-site

$17.94 - $24.50/hr

As an Operator at PTA Plastics, you will perform the necessary tasks of manufacturing an injection ... Operate plastic injection molding machines according to established procedures and guidelines.

Operator - Extrusion

Dayville, CT · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Putnam Plastics Corporation (PPC) is the Industry Leading Manufacturer of Life-Saving medical ... Mechanical aptitude to operate and troubleshoot machinery. * Ability to read/write/understand ...

Production Operator

Shelton, CT · On-site

$19 - $19.75/hr

Plastics Manufacturing company looking for experienced Production Operators to join their team. In this role you will be responsible for operating machine operation and training. - Must have machine ...

Extruder Operator

Putnam, CT · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

To operate in a team environment in the manufacturing of specialty plastic compounds while ... Responsible for machine and equipment preparation by looking and planning. * Ensure that all ...

BDS Line Operator

Deep River, CT · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Ensuring machines are functioning safely in accordance with GMP and housekeeping standards ... Silgan Plastics is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without ...

Maintenance Technician

Berlin, CT · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Since 1968, Plastic Molding Manufacturing (PMM) has been an owner-operated leader in American-made ... Performing preventive, predictive and corrective maintenance on machines and robots according to ...

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Line Operator (Extruder) - All 3 shifts

Farmington, CT · On-site

$20 - $29/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are a service company that provides specialty plastics; and as a result, we have on time ... The line operator is part of the production team at Polymer Resources and will report to the shift ...

Maintenance Technician

Berlin, CT · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Since 1968, Plastic Molding Manufacturing (PMM) has been an owner-operated leader in American-made ... Performing preventive, predictive and corrective maintenance on machines and robots according to ...

Operator - Assembly

Dayville, CT · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

Putnam Plastics Co. (PPC) is the industry leading manufacture of life saving medical devices ... Troubleshoots, collects, and analyzes process/machine data as required or with assistance of ...

Material Handler

Berlin, CT · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Since 1968, Plastic Molding Manufacturing (PMM) has been a proudly owner-operated leader in ... This role is responsible for staging machines, monitoring inventory levels loading and unloading ...

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CNC Machinist - Experienced

Branford, CT · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

The ideal candidate will be responsible for setting up, programming, and operating CNC machines to produce precision plastic, tape and foam components. This role requires a strong understanding of ...

Showing results 21-40

Plastic Machine Operator information

See Connecticut salary details

$11

$15

$17

How much do plastic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic machine operator in Connecticut is $15.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $16.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plastic machine operator?

Plastic Machine Operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that mold, form, or fabricate plastic products. They ensure the machinery runs smoothly, monitor product quality, and make necessary adjustments to maintain production standards. These operators often work in manufacturing environments and must follow safety protocols while handling equipment and materials. Their role is crucial in producing various plastic items used in everyday life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plastic machine operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plastic Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with on-the-job training or technical coursework. Familiarity with injection molding machines, CNC equipment, and quality control systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient production and maintaining high product quality in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by plastic machine operators, and how can they be addressed?

Plastic Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as machine malfunctions, maintaining consistent product quality, and meeting production deadlines. To address these issues, operators typically follow preventive maintenance schedules, closely monitor equipment settings, and quickly troubleshoot minor problems. Strong attention to detail and clear communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams are essential to minimize downtime and ensure smooth workflow. Continuous training on new technologies and safety procedures also helps operators stay effective in their roles.

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

AspectPlastic Machine OperatorInjection Molding Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certificationsHigh school diploma; specialized training or certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plantsFactories, manufacturing plants, often working directly with molds
Job FocusOperating plastic extrusion or molding machinesSetting up, maintaining, troubleshooting injection molds
Common UsageUsed interchangeably in some industries, but generally distinct roles

While both roles work within plastic manufacturing, Plastic Machine Operators primarily focus on running and monitoring plastic extrusion or molding machines, whereas Injection Molding Technicians specialize in setting up and maintaining injection molds. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Connecticut?

For Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Connecticut look for?

The top searched job categories for Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Connecticut are:

What are popular job titles related to Plastic Machine Operator jobs in CT?

For Plastic Machine Operator jobs in CT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Plastic Machine Operator job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,868 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Operator- 3rd Shift

PTA Plastics

Oxford, CT • On-site

$17.94 - $24.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Company Overview:
Are you a forward-thinking leader passionate about optimizing supply chain operations? PTA Plastics, an employee-owned and innovative leader in the plastic injection molding, contract manufacturing and tool-building industry, is looking for an Operator- 3rd Shift (11:00pm-7:30am) to join our dynamic team.
At PTA Plastics, we're more than just a manufacturer; we partner with Fortune 500 OEMs in the medical device, defense, homeland security, and technology sectors, constantly pushing the boundaries of product development and manufacturing excellence. As an employee-owned company, every team member has a stake in our success, creating a collaborative and entrepreneurial environment where innovation thrives.
Job Summary:
As an Operator at PTA Plastics, you will perform the necessary tasks of manufacturing an injection-molded part. Your primary focus will be on collecting freshly produced parts, ensuring parts measure up to visible quality standards, and placing parts in boxes for shipping.
Pay: $17.94/hr- $24.50/hr plus 10% shift differential
Essential Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Operate plastic injection molding machines according to established procedures and guidelines.
  • Observe machine operation to detect work defects or machine malfunctions.
  • Inspect finished products for quality based on the quality plan, identifying any defects or abnormalities such as cracks, splay, sink, drag lines, blemishes, color variations, etc.
  • Understand and follow work instructions and quality plans to produce parts that meet specified requirements.
  • Monitor and control the production process to maintain consistent output and minimize waste.
  • Record operational data, including scrap, in the Job Book.
  • Perform secondary operations as needed, such as assembly, trimming, milling, pad printing, etc.
  • Package products at the press according to work instructions.
  • Maintain a clean and safe workplace.
  • Communicate with Molding, Q.A., and Engineering personnel to ensure objectives are met.
  • Follow safety protocols to maintain a safe working environment.
  • Adhere to company policies, procedures, and quality standards to meet customer requirements and expectations.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Previous experience operating plastic injection molding machines or similar manufacturing equipment is a plus.
  • Excellent attention to detail.
  • Ability to understand work instructions and quality plans in English to produce parts that meet specified requirements.
  • Strong communication skills, including English reading, writing, and speaking skills, to understand work instructions and effectively communicate with team members and supervisors.
  • Flexibility to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing production demands.
  • Commitment to following safety protocols and maintaining a safe work environment.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to stand, walk, and move around the production floor for extended periods.
  • Capable of lifting and carrying heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for handling small tools, machine components, and molds.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.
  • Comfortable wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection.
  • Occasional bending, kneeling, and reaching to access equipment and perform maintenance tasks.
  • Good vision and color perception for inspecting parts and identifying any defects or abnormalities.
  • Ability to work in temperature-controlled environments and withstand exposure to noise levels associated with manufacturing machinery.
  • Ability to receive, comprehend and utilize required training from OSHA and Company including but not limited to the following:
  • Hazard Communication
  • Lock Out/Tag Out
  • First Aid and CPR (optional)

ITAR Requirements: To conform to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), applicants for employment at PTA Plastics must be a U.S. citizen or national, lawfully admitted for permanent residence into the U.S. (i.e., current green card holder), or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1157-1158.
Equal Employment Opportunity & ADA Compliance Statement:
PTA Plastics is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, including those with disabilities. As part of this commitment, PTA Plastics complies with theAmericans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Connecticut's Fair Employment Practices Act (CFEPA), which prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities in hiring, job assignments, promotions, compensation, benefits, training, and other aspects of employment.
If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process or to perform the essential functions of this position, please contact HR@ptaplastics.com. Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with applicable laws to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job duties.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Employees may be required to perform other duties as assigned.