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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

KSI

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Dyersville, IA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Machine Operators - 2nd Shift Location: Dyersville, Iowa Position: Full-Time | Manufacturing ... As the only plastic resin compounder in Iowa specializing in engineered thermoplastics, JEDA ...

KSI

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Dyersville, IA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Machine Operators - 2nd Shift Location: Dyersville, Iowa Position: Full-Time | Manufacturing ... As the only plastic resin compounder in Iowa specializing in engineered thermoplastics, JEDA ...

Aerotek

Machine Operator

Marion, IA · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Machine Operator The Machine Operator plays a key role in supporting production and warehouse ... Work Environment The facility manufactures plastic zipper components used inside resealable bags ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

We are looking for Machine Packaging Operators 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

$21.60/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 ...

ALPLA Group

Machine Operator

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Assists Machine operator II/Supervisor and Mold Change Team with mold changes as needed * Working ... in Plastics Industry preferred • Basic computer skills • Demonstrated mechanical ability ...

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 ...

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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 Sep 12, 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 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 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,465 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Machine Operator

Sioux Rapids, IA

Ascend Staffing
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Ascend Staffingexternal

$20 - $27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 13 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Set up, program, operate, and maintain CNC vertical mill and/or manual machining equipment and manual lathe.

  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and measurements to produce accurate components.

  • Detect and report defective materials, identify non-conforming parts, and maintain a clean and safe work area.

Job description

Apply today, work tomorrow, get paid weekly! Want to be paid each week? Were now hiring immediately for our CNC Machine Operator job in Sioux Rapids, IA. Must have relevant CNC experience to be considered.

What We Offer

  • Direct deposit & debit card payment options

  • Weekly pay of $20.00 - $27.00/hour DOE

  • Get weekends off

  • Overtime available

  • Temp-to-hire opportunity

Machine Operator Tasks & Duties (What You'll Do)

  • Set up, program, operate and maintain CNC vertical mill and/or manual machining equipment and manual lathe

  • Understand and apply machining principles and optimize processes for productivity and quality

  • Detects and reports defective materials, identifies non-conforming parts, and relieves from inventory as necessary and produces accurate components

  • Maintains the work area and equipment in a clean, orderly condition and follows prescribed safety and cleanliness procedures

  • Works at different workstations as needs require or shifts between stations

  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and measurements

Machine Operator Shift Info

  • Day Shift, 7:00 am to 4:00 pm

  • Monday - Friday

Machine Operator Requirements

  • High School diploma/GED

  • Completed 2-year machining program or equivalent CNC machining experience required

  • Experience running mills and lathes

  • Knowledge with ERP software, CSI/Syteline is a plus

  • Able to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and measurements

  • Able to perform milling, drilling, tapping, deburring, sawing and sanding tasks

  • Able to add, subtract, multiply, divide and work with fractions and decimals

  • Able to lift up to 50 lbs

  • Have a good employment history

About Ascend Staffing

Ascend Staffing has been connecting great people with real opportunities for over 50 years. We are always looking for great people. If youre ready to earn more, get real benefits and achieve your goals, youve come to the right place.

  • We do what we say we will do

  • We are direct and transparent

  • We find real opportunities with great employers

  • Want to see our otherjobs?Find and apply forthemon Indeed here:https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Ascend-Staffing/jobs

Want to contact us?

Ascend Staffing Spirit Lake

1710 Lincoln Ave, Ste C

Spirit Lake, IA 51360

https://www.ascendstaffing.com/contact-us/spirit-lake/

https://facebook.com/Ascend.SpiritLake/

Related Job Titles

  • Production Associate

  • Plastic Production Worker

  • Production Assembler

  • Production

  • Hiring Immediately Jobs

@IN1172

@ZR1172

Company Description

A True Partner in Your Success:
Ascend staffing has been connecting great people with great opportunities for over 50 years. Many of our talented workers stay with us for years because they like what they get from Ascend.

What We Offer:
Weekly Pay
Direct Deposit and Debit Card Payment Options
Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
Life and Short-term Disability Insurance

Our Purpose Statement:
Our purpose is to partner with employees, clients, and the community to create opportunities for growth and mutual success.

The Ascend Difference:
We do what we say we will do.
We are direct and transparent.
We find real opportunities with great employers.
We support our talent every step of the way.
We make a difference in people’s lives.

How We Help You:
Our recruiters aren’t just about filling jobs. They are about helping you achieve your goals. We put thousands of people to work every year in temporary, temporary-to-hire and direct hire placements.

We are always looking for great people. Apply today!

Ascend Staffing logo

About Ascend Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ascend Staffing has been connecting great people with real opportunities for over 50 years. We are always looking for great people. If you're ready to earn more, get real benefits and achieve your goals, you've come to the right place. Our Purpose Statement: Our purpose is to partner with employees, clients, and the community to create opportunities for growth and mutual success. The Ascend Difference: We do what we say we will do. We are direct and transparent. We find real opportunities with great employers. We support our talent every step of the way. We make a difference in people's lives.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Tooele, UT, US

Year founded

1969

Social media

Twitter

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