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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Middlebury, IN ยท On-site

$18/hr

Company Profile Plastics manufacturer creates parts for multiple industries including agriculture ... Machine Operator Details: * Temp-to-Hire position * $18.00 /hour * Full Time work available

Grinders - Machine Operator

Fremont, IN ยท On-site

$16 - $19/hr

PADNOS is a full-service recycling company handling paper, plastic, metals and electronic recycling ... The manufacturing machine operator will be working with multiple shredders to shred plastic. It is ...

Grinders - Machine Operator

Fremont, IN ยท On-site

$16 - $19/hr

PADNOS is a full-service recycling company handling paper, plastic, metals and electronic recycling ... The manufacturing machine operator will be working with multiple shredders to shred plastic. It is ...

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$16.25 - $17/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of grinding equipment used to process recyclable materials. This role supports daily production activities by operating ...

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$16.25 - $17/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of grinding equipment used to process recyclable materials. This role supports daily production activities by operating ...

Machine Operator

Washington, IN

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Machine Operator, you?ll maintain, service, and perform repairs on production equipment and ... Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating ...

Machine Operator

Washington, IN ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Machine Operator in food service department, you?ll maintain, service, and perform repairs on ... Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating ...

Machine Operator

Washington, IN ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Machine Operator in food service department, you'll maintain, service, and perform repairs on ... Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating ...

Machine Operator

Washington, IN

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Machine Operator, you'll maintain, service, and perform repairs on production equipment and ... Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating ...

Machine Operator

Washington, IN ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

As a Machine Operator in food service department, you'll maintain, service, and perform repairs on ... Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating ...

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Showing results 1-20

Plastic Machine Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$15

$17

How much do plastic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic machine operator in Indiana is $15.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $16.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Is plastic injection molding a good career?

Plastic machine operators specializing in injection molding play a key role in manufacturing, operating and maintaining molding machines to produce plastic parts. The career offers steady employment opportunities, requires technical skills, and often involves working in a factory environment with safety protocols. Advancement can include supervisory roles or specialized technical positions.

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.

How much does a mold setter make?

A mold setter, often working in manufacturing or plastic production, typically earns between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled mold setters who operate complex machinery and have certifications may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or chemical manufacturing, where operators may earn higher wages due to the complexity and safety requirements. Senior or lead machine operators with advanced certifications and extensive experience tend to earn the highest salaries in the field.

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 Plastic Machine Operators?

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 is a plastic machine operator?

A plastic machine operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery used to produce plastic products, such as injection molding or extrusion machines. They monitor machine performance, ensure quality standards, and troubleshoot issues during production shifts, often requiring knowledge of safety procedures and technical skills.
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Plastic Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Plastic Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Plastic Machine Operator jobs in IN? For Plastic Machine Operator jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Plastic Machine Operator job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,877 per year, or $15.3 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Elwood Staffing

Middlebury, IN โ€ข On-site

$18/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Machine Operator

Put your Industrial experience to work in Machine Operator role! Apply Today!

Company Profile

Plastics manufacturer creates parts for multiple industries including agriculture, marine, and RV.

What's in it for you?

Elwood Staffing associates are eligible for a comprehensive and competitive benefits package plus an exclusive savings program, including:

  • Medical/Vision/Dental/Rx plans
  • Holiday Pay
  • Teladoc (online care)
  • Referral Bonus Incentive
  • Weekly Pay
  • 401k
  • And More!

Machine Operator Details:

  • Temp-to-Hire position
  • $18.00 /hour
  • Full Time work available
  • Second Shift (Monday through Friday from 02:30pm to 10:30am)
  • Load and unload machines with plastics and parts.
  • Use small hand and air tools to assemble and disassemble plastics molds

Machine Operator Qualifications:

  • 75 pounds lifting capability repetitively
  • Steel toed shoes or boots
  • No High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Applicant may be subject to a background check
  • Pre-employment drug screen (Excluding THC) is required as a condition of employment

*A conviction record will not necessarily prevent you from being employed. You will be required to complete and submit a questionnaire. We will consider your age at the time of the offense, when the offense occurred, the seriousness and the nature of the offense, as well as any rehabilitation to determine your employability.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and celebrate diversity at all levels of our organization.

:

Visit, email, call, or text us today! Walk-ins are welcome! !

Goshen, IN

2003 Lincolnway East

Goshen, IN 46526


*See above for qualifications

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