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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Crown Staffing LLC

Forklift Operator-Web only

Ames, IA · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

Indoor manufacturing environment (may include loud machinery and moving equipment). * Standing ... Previous experience in metals, plastics, automotive, or general manufacturing industries * Safely ...

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

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

CNC Machinist

Garner, IA

$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

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

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 ...

MSI Mold Builders

Design Internship

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

... added plastic molds. Our customers rely on us to design and build various types of steel and ... The intern will be assigned tasks that are not directly related to operating machinery but will be ...

MSI Mold Builders

Design Internship

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

... added plastic molds.Our customers rely on us to design and build various types of steel and ... The intern will be assigned tasks that are not directly related to operating machinery but will be ...

MSI Mold Builders

Design Internship

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

... added plastic molds. Our customers rely on us to design and build various types of steel and ... The intern will be assigned tasks that are not directly related to operating machinery but will be ...

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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 Aug 21, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 50% 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 Trash Dock - 3rd Shift

Conagra Brands, Inc.

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

$21.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Conagra Brands rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 134 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

196th of 442 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Shift: 9:00 PM-5:00 AM
Hourly Rate: $21.20 an hour
Job Summary:
The Trash Dock associate will perform a variety of duties including but not limited to completing required paperwork, operating the controls on the compactors, adjusting when necessary; as well as baling & operating the trash compactors and balers.
Base rate: $21.20
Attendance bonus: for 3rd shift $.70
Essential Job Functions:
  • Ability to work the scheduled/assigned times and required overtime for position
  • Ability to read, write and comprehend English
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Must be well organized and able to prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Ability to operate P.I.T.'s (Sit-down Forklift & Pallet Jack)
  • Ability to work individually as well as with others as a team at all levels
  • Ability to push or pull up to 50 lbs. repetitively
  • Ability to push, pull, or tip 100+ lbs. repetitively

Job Duties:
  • Obtain all required paperwork for shift
  • Check compactors for anything out of the ordinary
  • Dumping & compacting trash into the trash compactors
  • Adding cardboard into the cardboard baler and bale the cardboard for recycling
  • Adding plastic &/or bucket into the vertical baler and bale the plastic &/or bucket for recycling
  • Pumping liquids (fats, oils & grease) into the designated tank
  • Monitoring the compacting process
  • Loading the cardboard, barrels, pallets, plastic &/or bucket and etc. onto the designated trailer
  • Cleaning compactors, totes, work area, etc.
  • Ensuring good housekeeping (interior and exterior) and 5S standards are met
  • Complete all required paperwork and document critical data
  • May perform general labor duties as assigned
  • May perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
  • Knowledge of GMP's and food allergens
  • Ability to be PIT Certified
  • Ability to be LOTO Certified
  • Knowledge of the 5S concept
  • Ability to work with animal and allergen products

Qualifications:
Education: High school diploma or GED preferred.
Experience: Minimum 3 months' production or related experience preferred.
Anticipated Close Date: June 25, 2026
Location: Council Bluffs, Iowa
Our Benefits
We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role:
  • Health: Medical, dental and vision insurance, company-paid life, accident and disability insurance
  • Wealth: Great pay, 401(k)/pension eligibility, financial wellness programs and stock purchase plan
  • Growth: Career development opportunities, employee resource groups and team collaboration
  • Balance: Paid-time off and volunteer opportunities

Our Company
At Conagra Brands, we have a rich heritage of making great food. We aspire to have the most impactful, energized and inclusive culture in food. As a member of our 18,000+ person team across 40+ locations, you are empowered to reach your potential, make an impact and own your career. We're in the business of building champions - within our people and our iconic brands like Birds Eye®, Slim Jim® and Reddi-Wip®.
Our focus on innovation extends beyond making great food, it also reflects our commitment to embracing new solutions that positively impact our team, the communities we serve and the health of our planet. Foodies Welcome.
Conagra Brands is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law. Reasonable accommodation may be made upon request.

What Conagra Brands employees say

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About Conagra Brands

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Conagra Brands (NYSE: CAG) is an approximately $11 billion company that combines a rich heritage of making great food with a sharpened focus and entrepreneurial spirit. We're transforming the way we operate to fulfill what consumers and customers want, in a smart, simple way. We're modernizing our iconic food brands, leveraging fresh opportunities and adapting to a changing landscape - all with a culture that's ready to capture growth and drive shareholder value.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1919

Social media

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