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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Scotts Company LLC

IA · On-site

$19.30/hr

... plastic wrap, pumps, inserts, bottles, caps, labels, sprayers, etc., avoiding breaks in the production assembly process. Feed components onto assembly conveyor, into hoppers, machinery or other ...

Safco Products

Forklift Operator

Milford, IA · On-site

$20.25/hr

... shrink wrap machines, fulfill shipments to customers and receive incoming deliveries. This ... The LDI family of companies includesLiberty Packaging, Liberty Paper, Liberty Plastics (Custom ...

Advanced Drainage Systems

Line Operator

Eagle Grove, IA · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Manages a plastic extrusion line to ensure finished goods meet quality specifications that meet ... Ability to operate heavy machinery, i.e. forklifts, in a safe manner * Reading and Writing skills

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

... operating in Garner, Iowa since 1993. We specialize in precision machining, tooling, and ... 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 ...

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

... operating in Garner, Iowa since 1993. We specialize in precision machining, tooling, and ... This position is responsible for manufacturing precision metal and plastic components using CNC ...

Short Staffed Inc

Fork Lift

Sergeant Bluff, IA · On-site

$18/hr

Will monitor machine producing material filling bin, when bin is full plastic lid placed on bin. Will move bin into truck with forklift and replace bin in machine( Needs basic forklift experience.

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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 Jul 14, 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.
Entry Level Packaging Operator - 3rd Shift

Entry Level Packaging Operator - 3rd Shift

The Scotts Miracle Gro Company

Fort Madison, IA

$19.30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

ScottsMiracle-Gro rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

284th of 527 rated manufacturers

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 $19.30 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.
In this role you will:
Manually assemble/install various liquid packaging component parts including but not limited to sprayers, caps, box dividers, cases, display units, etc
Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts, bottles, caps, labels, sprayers, etc., avoiding breaks in the production assembly process.
Feed components onto assembly conveyor, into hoppers, machinery or other devices to maintain continuous production.
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.
Perform various manufacturing inspection protocols to ensure plant quality standards on liquid packaging products and display units.
Perform Interpret and understand quality verification processes.

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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