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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Adecco

Extrusion Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$17.50/hr

Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator Position Summary We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator to join our production team. This role is responsible for ...

Drive

Machine Operator

Pulaski, TN

$16.74/hr

Operator - Hiring on all shifts! Location: Pulaski, TN Pay: $16.74/hour + $1.00/hour shift premium ... Join our team at a leading automotive plastic injection molding facility in Pulaski, TN. What You ...

Victaulic

Machine Operator

Bristol, TN

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Retrieve all packaging and safety supplies as needed (Pallets, cardboard, plastic wrap, gloves, etc ... machine tools including the set-up and the selection of the proper operating parameters. Why ...

Victaulic

Machine Operator

Bristol, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Retrieve all packaging and safety supplies as needed (Pallets, cardboard, plastic wrap, gloves, etc ... machine tools including the set-up and the selection of the proper operating parameters. Why ...

Victaulic

Machine Operator

Bristol, TN

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Retrieve all packaging and safety supplies as needed (Pallets, cardboard, plastic wrap, gloves, etc ... machine tools including the set-up and the selection of the proper operating parameters. Why ...

Century Mold Co

Machine Operator - A (Day) Shift

Pulaski, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

The plastics industry is full of challenges and the Century Mold team prides themselves on their ... Our Machine Operators are essential to Century Mold's success by ensuring that our manufacturing ...

CRH

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Franklin, TN · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

Machine Operator (2nd Shift) Architectural Products Group Franklin, Tennessee, United States Job ID ... plastic infrastructure products. Our portfolio of brands includes Oldcastle APG, Oldcastle ...

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All JobsPlastic Machine Operator JobsPlastic Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Plastic Machine Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$14

$17

How much do plastic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic machine operator in Tennessee is $14.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $15.72 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 Tennessee? For Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Plastic Machine Operator jobs in TN? For Plastic Machine Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Plastic Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Machine Operator job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,405 per year, or $14.6 per hour.
Plastics Machine Operator

Plastics Machine Operator

Petoskey Plastics

Morristown, TN

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Petoskey Plastics rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 84 rated plastic manufacturers

Job description

Petoskey Plastics is an environmentally focused recycler and plastic film, bag, and resin manufacturer dedicated to our mission statement: to earn the appreciation and respect of our customers, associates, and communities.

We are looking for motivated individuals to join our career-oriented, benefits-rich team. See a few of our over 20 competitive benefits below:

  • Medical, Prescription, Dental, and Vision benefits - valued at $4/hr over your base pay!
  • Profit Sharing Bonuses
  • Paid Time Off - start earning PTO just two weeks after your start date
  • 401 Retirement Plan - with a 3% company contribution, regardless of your contribution
  • Safety Shoe and Safety Glasses Reimbursement
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Wellness Reimbursement
  • Life Insurance
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability

Headquartered in Petoskey, Michigan, Petoskey Plastics provides products and custom-engineered solutions for a variety of industries, including automotive, industrial, institutional, retail, construction, home improvement, medical, and more. The company has facilities in Michigan, Indiana, Tennessee, and Texas.

Petoskey Plastics is here if you are looking for a family-oriented, career path-focused company. We offer paid training and several different growth opportunities. Start your career at Petoskey Plastics today!

Careers - Petoskey Plastics Jobs - Jobs Plastic Industry

We are seeking anexperienced blown film extrusion operatorto safely perform a combination of productions tasks, which may include set up of jobs, reading the production schedule, reading, and understanding work instructions and blueprints. Proficient at running multi-layer extrusion and downstream equipment. Assists supervisor in covering the production floor, training new associates on safety, housekeeping and other aspects of the production process.

This will be an overnight position.2-2-3 shift schedule, 8p-8a,$1.00/hour shift premiumif working on the night shift!

Qualifications
  • 3 years of blown film extrusion experience preferred.
  • Ability to read production schedule, work order, and work procedures in English.
  • Problem solving and trouble shooting skills.
  • Mechanical aptitude.
  • Knowledge of resins and additives.
  • Ability to train new associates.
  • Commitment to quality work.
  • Commitment to safety and quality. Follow all safety and quality policies.
  • Able to consistently demonstrate reliable, punctual attendance.
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills (verbal & written).
  • High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED) is required.

You should be proficient in:

  • Machine Building/Assembling
  • Mechanical Troubleshooting Skills
  • CAD Software
  • Machine Safety Inspections
  • Machine Setups for Production Runs
  • Troubleshooting CNC Machines
  • Plastic Extrusion Experience
  • Injection Molding Experience
  • Blow Molding Experience
  • Tool/Die/Mold Setup Experience
  • Blueprint Reading

Machines & technologies you'll use:

  • CNC Automation Solutions
  • Injection Molding Machine
  • CNC Lathe (2-4 axis)
  • Extrusion Machine
  • Blow Molding Machine
ID:qnkTyx

What Petoskey Plastics employees say

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