ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Regal Plastic

Machine Operator

Grimes, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

For more than 65 years, Regal Plastic has been a pioneer in the distribution and fabrication of ... Job Brief We are looking for a capable Machine Operator to support our company's warehouse ...

Regal Plastic

Machine Operator

Grimes, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

For more than 65 years, Regal Plastic has been a pioneer in the distribution and fabrication of ... Job Brief We are looking for a capable Machine Operator to support our company's warehouse ...

Ascend Staffing

Machine Operator

Sioux Rapids, IA

$20 - $27/hr

Were now hiring immediately for our CNC Machine Operator job in Sioux Rapids, IA. Must have ... Plastic Production Worker * Production Assembler * Production * Hiring Immediately Jobs @IN1172 ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

We are looking for a Machine Packaging Operator who will join our Liquids Manufacturing team in Ft ... Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

We are looking for a Machine Packaging Operator who will join Scotts Miracle-Gro team in Ft ... Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$21.20/hr

Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control ... Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

We are looking for a Machine Packaging Operator who will join Scotts Miracle-Gro team in Ft ... Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

We are looking for a Machine Packaging Operator who will join Scotts Miracle-Gro team in Ft ... Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPlastic Machine Operator JobsPlastic Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa

Plastic Machine Operator information

See Iowa 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 Iowa is $15.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $16.25 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 are popular job titles related to Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Iowa? For Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Plastic Machine Operator jobs in IA? For Plastic Machine Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Plastic Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Machine Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,465 per year, or $15.1 per hour.
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Regal Plastic

Grimes, IA • On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

For more than 65 years, Regal Plastic has been a pioneer in the distribution and fabrication of plastic sheet, rod, tube and film products in the U.S.

Are you a highly motivated, self-starter with a solid work ethic? Are you looking for a company where you can make a difference? If this describes you, we just might have the job you desire.

Job Brief

We are looking for a capable Machine Operator to support our company’s warehouse operations in Grimes, IA. Primary responsibility will be running one of our machines, such as a CNC router, Holzma saw, or circular saw. You will receive on the job training. No previous experience is necessary. You will be cross-trained to receive, input, sort, load and unload products and you will perform various warehouse activities.

Hours are day shift, Monday - Friday.

We pride ourselves on being flexible, but there are some things we feel very strongly about:

  • Being an excellent communicator, because you not only have to articulate your own thought process but that of your customer as well.
  • Understanding the whole business. Extraordinary systems aren't built in a vacuum - they require hard work from dedicated people across many disciplines and an understanding of how it all fits together.
  • Great teams are more than just the sum of their parts. No matter how excellent the individual players, teams only succeed when they work together.

Responsibilities

  • Processing, packaging and shipping orders accurately
  • Prepare order requests
  • Machine operation and maintenance
  • Organize items to company standards
  • Record and maintain inventory levels
  • Maintain a safe and clean work environment

We Offer

  • Competitive starting salary, depending on experience
  • A generous benefits package including
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life, Long Term Disability
  • 401K matching savings plan
  • Paid time off

Requirements

  • Ability to operate a forklift, hand truck, pallet jack, and other warehouse equipment
  • Ability to lift or move heavy products
  • Good attendance record
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks
  • High school diploma

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Powered by JazzHR

AvDo4OU61d