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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Coater Operator

Evansville, IN · On-site

$25.31/hr

In this full-time manufacturing machine operator role , you will set up, operate, and maintain ... Supplier of sustainable metal and plastic packaging solutions for food, beverage, healthcare, ...

Coater Operator

Evansville, IN · On-site

$25.31/hr

In this full-time manufacturing machine operator role , you will set up, operate, and maintain ... Supplier of sustainable metal and plastic packaging solutions for food, beverage, healthcare, ...

EXTRUSION OPERATOR

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

The Plastics Extrusion Operator provides general support to the production department by cleaning, assembling and operating plastics extrusion machines with all upstream and downstream equipment ...

The Plastics Extrusion Operator provides general support to the production department by cleaning, assembling and operating plastics extrusion machines with all upstream and downstream equipment ...

The Plastics Extrusion Operator provides general support to the production department by cleaning, assembling and operating plastics extrusion machines with all upstream and downstream equipment ...

Molding Operator/Assembly

Mishawaka, IN · On-site

$13.78 - $15.95/hr

Techniplas Machine Operators perform standardized operations such as assembly, molding, trimming ... File, deburr, sand, grind, or polish metal or plastic objects. * Fill in appropriate information on ...

Molding Operator/Assembly

Mishawaka, IN · On-site

$13.78 - $15.95/hr

Techniplas Machine Operators perform standardized operations such as assembly, molding, trimming ... File, deburr, sand, grind, or polish metal or plastic objects. * Fill in appropriate information on ...

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Plastic Machine Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$15

$17

How much do plastic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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 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 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 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:
Coater Operator

Coater Operator

Silgan

Evansville, IN • On-site

$25.31/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Silgan Holdings rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

106th of 109 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Coater Operator - Manufacturing | Silgan Closures - Evansville, IN
Silgan Closures, a global leader in sustainable packaging and manufacturing, is hiring a Coater Operator at our Evansville, IN facility. In this full-time manufacturing machine operator role, you will set up, operate, and maintain coating equipment to support production for some of the world's top food and beverage brands. If you have manufacturing, production, or machine operator experience, this is your opportunity to build a career with a stable Fortune 500 company that offers excellent pay, strong benefits, and long-term growth.
What We Offer You
  • Competitive starting pay: $25.31 per hour with an additional $1 an hour for 2nd and 3rd shift work
  • Weekly pay with overtime after 40 hours
  • Guaranteed pay increases annually
  • Affordable, comprehensive benefits with no increased contribution for dependents
  • Company-sponsored pension plan plus a 401k with employer contributions
  • Tuition reimbursement and annual incentive pay opportunities
  • Monthly employee appreciation events such as food trucks, giveaways, etc.

What You'll Do
  • Set up, operate, and adjust coating machinery in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
  • Read and follow job orders, production schedules, and safety procedures
  • Mix and maintain coating material according to specifications
  • Monitor coating weight, viscosity, and oven temperature to ensure product quality
  • Inspect metal sheets during setup and production runs for accuracy and defects
  • Ensure proper metal orientation and maintain continuous operation of the coater line
  • Safely lift and handle coating materials and production supplies as needed

What You'll Need to Have
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D.
  • Previous experience in manufacturing, production, or machine operation preferred
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to identify quality issues
  • Ability to discern colors and follow precise specifications
  • Capable of lifting up to 45 lbs. in 5-gallon liquid buckets up to 4 hours per shift
  • A strong work ethic and commitment to safety and teamwork

Who We Are
  • A Fortune 500 global packaging company with 109 manufacturing facilities worldwide
  • Supplier of sustainable metal and plastic packaging solutions for food, beverage, healthcare, personal care, and household products
  • A company known for reliability and environmental responsibility
  • Career opportunities with a leader in manufacturing and industrial operations

Location: Evansville, IN
Job Type: Full-time | Manufacturing | Machine Operator
Apply today to start your career as a Coater Operator with Silgan Closures!
LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.
All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.
This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor in compliance with Federal and State Laws.
Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an "at-will" basis.
Silgan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, or the presence of a disability, which would not prevent the performance of essential job duties with, or without reasonable accommodation of any other protective status.
Silgan is a drug-free workplace.

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