ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

ALPLA

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 ...

trimark

Plastics B Operator- 3rd Shift

New Hampton, IA · On-site

$21.93/hr

Plus $2 Shift Premium Job Objective The B Operator needs run the plastic machines, help A Operators with setups, machine adjustments, and daily activities, while complying with safety, quality, and ...

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$21.60/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

$21.60/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 ...

Access Dubuque

Forklift Operator- Off Shifts

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$18.50/hr

... and Plastic Assemblers - Sedona Staffing Services Vibrate Operator- 2nd shift Sedona Staffing ... CNC Machine Operator Sedona Staffing Services Share this Job Sedona Staffing Services About the ...

Cope Plastics

Be Seen First

Machinist

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$21.95 - $25/hr

We're looking for one Saw Operator and one Mill Operator. Our machinists are a vital part of our ... Company Description With locations across the United States, Cope Plastics is your go-to partner ...

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 13, 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

ALPLA

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

ALPLA rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 80 rated plastic manufacturers

Job description

ALPLA is a global family-owned, privately held company that makes innovative, customized, recycled packaging for top companies such as P&G, Unilever, L'Oréal, Pepsi, and more. ALPLA values their employees, work-life balance, personal growth, compensation and sustainability.
What Can You Expect From ALPLA
  • Health and Wellness Care Program- Benefits
  • Child Care Benefits
  • Dependent Care Cost Savings Program
  • Recognition programs; Promotional opportunities
  • 401K Retirement Plan and excellent Matching Plan
  • Medical, dental, vision plan
  • Education assistance program/tuition reimbursement
  • Short term, long term and life insurance paid by ALPLA
  • Paid vacation; paid holidays

What You Will Enjoy Doing
  • Overall line responsibility from production to packaging
  • Ensure goods are produced and packaged in correct quantity and in
    accordance with agreed specifications
  • Accurately records goods produced, and problems encountered during shift
  • Ensures product meets all quality specifications
  • Color change performance
  • Autonomous maintenance activities
  • Line cleaning and line clearance
  • Assists Machine operator II/Supervisor and Mold Change Team with mold changes as
    needed
  • Working together in a Team
  • Ensure team works together as efficiently as possible
  • Maintains good housekeeping within department

What Makes You Great
Performance Metrics:
• Efficiency
• Waste
• Quality checks
• Color change efficiency
• Autonomous maintenance completion
Competencies:
• Ensures Accountability
• Decision Quality
• Communicates Effectively
• Instills Trust
• Collaborates
• Values Differences
• Drives Results
Qualifications and Requirements:
• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Technical Background in Plastics Industry preferred
• Basic computer skills
• Demonstrated mechanical ability
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an
employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable
accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential
functions. While performing the duties of this job:
• The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms and
very occasionally to climb or balance.
• The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; stoop,
kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear.
• The employee is occasionally required to sit.
• The employee must regularly lift and/ or move up to 10 lbs, frequently lift and/or
move up to 30 lbs and occasionally lift and/or move more than 50 lbs.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.
It is required to act in a safe and environmentally responsible manner at all times by
adhering to all ALPLA policies and procedures and Safety Standards (OSHA).#entrylevel #IOWA2
ALPLA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Prohibits Discrimination and Harassment of Any Kind:
ALPLA is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing
employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at
ALPLA are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to
race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical,
mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital,
civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or
genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in
the locations where we operate. ALPLA will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of
these characteristics.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What ALPLA employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply