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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$21.60/hr

Operates and tends automated machinery that performs one or more liquid bottling packaging ... Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts ...

Aerotek

Forklift Operator

Davenport, IA

$17/hr

Forklift Operator - $17/HR 11:30 AM- 7:30 PM//1 PM - 9 PM This role supports a high-volume ... plastic totes at the washing machine. * Stand for the entire shift while performing washing ...

ALPLA Group

Plastics Processing Apprentice

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

What You Will Enjoy Doing: * Assist in setting up, adjusting, and operating plastics processing machinery, primarily Extrusion-Blow-Molding systems. * Support troubleshooting of process deviations ...

Plas-Tech Tooling Inc

Part-Time CNC Machinist

Garner, IA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

About Us At Plas-Tech Tooling, Inc., we've been family-owned and proudly operating in Garner, Iowa ... This position is responsible for manufacturing precision metal and plastic components using CNC ...

Plas-Tech Tooling Inc

Part-Time CNC Machinist

Garner, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

About Us At Plas-Tech Tooling, Inc., we've been family-owned and proudly operating in Garner, Iowa ... This position is responsible for manufacturing precision metal and plastic components using CNC ...

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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 Jun 10, 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.

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 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,465 per year, or $15.1 per hour.
Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

The Scotts Company LLC

IA • On-site

$21.60/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Here at Scotts Miracle-Gro there is no such thing as a typical day. Our culture is constantly energized by new and exciting growth opportunities and at a rapid pace. Below are details on an open job. If the role interests you and you would like to be considered we encourage you to apply!
This hourly role follows the Scotts/Hawthorne step pay progression scale and typically starts at $21.60 per hour and is paid weekly. Scotts/Hawthorne will consider various factors in determining the actual pay including your skills, qualifications, experience, and geographical location.
$500 SIGN ON BONUS!
We are looking for a Machine Packaging Operator who will join our Liquids Manufacturing team in Ft. Madison, IA.
Machine Packaging Operators are the core of our liquids manufacturing operation. They control automated liquid bottle filling machinery and feed components onto assembly conveyors and other equipment. If you're looking for a fast paced, high energy environment, this could be the role for you!
What you'll do in this role:
  • The Packaging Machine Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently performing various tasks associated with the packaging of liquid products and operating various packaging machines on production lines.
  • Adhere to plant safety rules and programs as it pertains to self and all other associates, including performing audits, safety suggestions, and participation in safety rotation of jobs.
  • Operates and tends automated machinery that performs one or more liquid bottling packaging functions, to assist in meeting assembly line production schedules.
  • Ability to learn multiple pieces of automated equipment and flexibility to move to different machinery daily.
  • Feed components onto assembly conveyor, into hoppers, machinery or other devices to maintain continuous production. Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts, bottles, caps, labels, sprayers, etc., avoiding breaks in production assembly process.
  • Manually assemble/install various liquid packaging component parts including but not limited to sprayers, caps, box dividers, cases, display units, etc.
  • Clean, lubricate, reassemble, install, troubleshoot and adjust assembly line equipment to meet yearly and daily maintenance requirements and to complete frequent reconfiguration of assembly lines in preparation for changing product runs.
  • Effectively communicate and relay information to peers and supervisors concerning the performance of the production line as it pertains to the assembly, operation and performance of the line.
  • Continuously look for methods, procedural changes, or equipment modifications to improve line output and efficiencies and communicate appropriately.
  • Perform various manufacturing inspection protocols to ensure plant quality standards on liquid packaging products and display units.

What you'll need to be successful:
  • High School Diploma / GED, preferred.
  • Minimum 1 year experience as a machine operator, production operator or equivalent position in a high speed manufacturing environment preferred.
  • Basic math skills, mechanical aptitude, ability to make decisions regarding equipment adjustments to meet product specifications and quality conformity.
  • Ability to follow the directions provided in verbal or non-verbal format.
  • Demonstrate a willingness to learn multiple machines or operations.
  • Must be a team player and promote teamwork amongst productions lines, departments and shifts.
  • Available to work any shift and overtime as needed.

What we do for you (just to name a few cool ones):
  • Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, holidays, vacation and sick time benefits available within a month of your start date
  • Healthcare navigation, advocacy and support
  • 401(k) company match up to 7.5% with immediate participation and vesting
  • Ability to purchase company stock at a 15% discounted price from market value
  • $600 annual wellness reimbursement program
  • Up to $30,000 to help cover the cost of fertility treatments, adoption or surrogacy
  • Up to 18 weeks of time away to support your growing family
  • To view all of our great benefits, click here!

* Eligibility for the above benefits may vary based on full-time/part-time status or additional factors.
Not interested in this role? Stay up to date on future opportunities by joining our ScottsMiracle-Gro and Hawthorne Gardening talent communities.
Scotts is an EEO Employer, dedicated to a culturally diverse, drug free workplace.
EEO/AA Employer/Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity
Notification to Agencies:
Please note that the Scotts Miracle-Gro company does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Master Service Agreement, and specific approval to submit resumes to an approved requisition, the Scotts Miracle-Gro company will not consider or approve payment regarding recruiter fees or referral compensations.

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