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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Do you have machine operator or assembly experience and are looking to make a change? Then look no ... Previous experience in a manufacturing environment (plastics preferred) * Familiar with machine ...

Michigan's plastic injection molding industry isn't just about large manufacturing hubs it's built on hardworking teams in communities like Sturgis, where Machine Operators play a key role in the ...

Machine Opeartor

Rockford, MI · On-site

$17/hr

Plastic Injection Machine Operator Location: Rockford, MI Shift: 1st Shift Pay: $17 per hour Job Summary: Join a temperature-controlled facility in Rockford, MI, as a Plastic Injection Machine ...

New

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Fraser, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Fraser, MI Summary The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining automated equipment in a state-of-the-art automotive interior soft trim and plastic injection molding ...

Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Fraser, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Fraser, MI Summary The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining automated equipment in a state-of-the-art automotive interior soft trim and plastic injection molding ...

1st Shift Machine Operator

Mattawan, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Join a leading manufacturer of high-quality plastic components for the automotive industry, located ... In this entry-level, temp-to-hire position, you will be responsible for operating machinery ...

Machine Operator - 1st shift

Fraser, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Standex International is a global industrial growth company operating through our market-leading ... Operate and monitor plastic injection molding machines and automated soft-trim equipment to produce ...

We are seeking dependable Machine Operators to join our manufacturing team. In this role, you will ... Operate plastic injection molding machines. * Inspect molded parts to ensure quality standards are ...

Machine Operator - 1st shift

Fraser, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Standex International is a global industrial growth company operating through our market-leading ... Operate and monitor plastic injection molding machines and automated soft-trim equipment to produce ...

We are seeking dependable Machine Operators to join our manufacturing team. In this role, you will ... Operate plastic injection molding machines. * Inspect molded parts to ensure quality standards are ...

Join a leading manufacturer of high-quality plastic components for the automotive industry, located ... In this entry-level, temp-to-hire position, you will be responsible for operating machinery ...

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Mattawan, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

Join a leading manufacturer of high-quality plastic components for the automotive industry, located ... In this entry-level, temp-to-hire position, you will be responsible for operating machinery ...

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Plastic Machine Operator information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$14

$16

How much do plastic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic machine operator in Michigan is $14.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.55 and $15.10 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 the most commonly searched types of Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Plastic Machine Operator jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Plastic Machine Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Plastic Machine Operator jobs in MI? For Plastic Machine Operator jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Plastic Machine Operator job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,198 per year, or $14 per hour.

$17 - $18/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Do you have machine operator or assembly experience and are looking to make a change? Then look no further!
APEX Placement and Consulting has partnered with an exciting company in Capac, MI looking to add a a Machine Operator/Assembler to their already amazing team. Their primary responsibility will be to ensure customer products are produced and assembled efficiently and adhering to customer requirements. Think this sounds like you? Keep reading to find out more!
What’s in it for you:
  • Multiple shifts to meet your scheduling needs
  • Competitive wage between $17-$18/hr. depending on shift
  • Contract-to-hire position – you’ll be hired on with our client based on attendance, performance and client needs
  • Growth and advancement
  • Amazing benefit package once hired in permanently
    • Medical, Dental and Vision
    • 401K
    • Paid vacation
What your day will look like:
  • Maintain machine efficiencies
  • Pack and label parts per customer instruction
  • Perform visual inspection of parts and disposition as needed
  • Assemble parts per customer specification
  • Ensure compliance to TS-16949/IATF-16949 systems and procedures
  • Other tasks as assigned by supervisor
What we are looking for:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Previous experience in a manufacturing environment (plastics preferred)
  • Familiar with machine tonnages is an asset
  • Flexible to work afternoons and nights when needed
  • Forklift and crane certification are a plus
At Apex, we actively encourage applications from underrepresented groups. Your unique experiences and perspectives are valuable to us, and we’re excited to see how you might contribute to our team. While we have outlined a set of qualifications for this role, we recognize that experience and skills can come from a variety of backgrounds. If you meet most of these qualifications and are eager to learn and grow with us, we invite you to apply.