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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Reclaim Operator

Lebanon, TN

$22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Previous experience in operating reclaim equipment or similar machinery in a blown film plastics ... manufacturing or recycling facility is preferred * Solid understanding of plastics processing ...

Reclaim Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Previous experience in operating reclaim equipment or similar machinery in a blown film plastics ... manufacturing or recycling facility is preferred * Solid understanding of plastics processing ...

3rd Shift - Machine Operator I

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$15.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Performs inspection and packaging of plastic parts. Adheres to all plant and OSHA safety policies ... Must be able to run 2 Injection Mold machines independently by six month mark. * Processes ...

2nd Shift - Machine Operator I

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$15.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Performs inspection and packaging of plastic parts. Adheres to all plant and OSHA safety policies ... Must be able to run 2 Injection Mold machines independently by six month mark. * Processes ...

Machinist, Plastics (3rd shift)

Arlington, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A basic understanding of manufacturing machines, metal deburring, and plastic trimming is required ... Machine Operator) or CNC Tech. School Completion. Machinist II: 4 years of experience as a CNC ...

Machinist, Plastics (3rd shift)

Arlington, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A basic understanding of manufacturing machines, metal deburring, and plastic trimming is required ... Machine Operator) or CNC Tech. School Completion. Machinist II: 4 years of experience as a CNC ...

Machinist, Plastics (3rd shift)

Arlington, TN

$18.25 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A basic understanding of manufacturing machines, metal deburring, and plastic trimming is required ... Machine Operator) or CNC Tech. School Completion. Machinist II: 4 years of experience as a CNC ...

Plastics Processing Operator I

Bristol, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Sets up, operates and maintains plastic molding machinery and support equipment. * Assures the ... Skilled in operating calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and hand tools. * Ability to work with ...

Trim Operators

Winchester, TN

$15.61/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

Operate trim machines, trim presses, and saws safely and efficiently * Cut, shape, and finish ... plastic, metal, composite, or printed matter * Inspect finished products to ensure quality ...

Plastics Unit Operator

Brownsville, TN

$17 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Utility Operator: * Package PVC Compound in bags, boxes, and bulk. * Label packaging, assembling boxes according to instructions on schedule. * Assemble boxes and various other responsibilities.

Plastics Unit Operator

Brownsville, TN · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Utility Operator: * Package PVC Compound in bags, boxes, and bulk. * Label packaging, assembling boxes according to instructions on schedule. * Assemble boxes and various other responsibilities.

Showing results 21-40

Plastic Machine Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$14

$17

How much do plastic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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.

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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Plastic Machine Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,405 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

MACHINE OPERATOR 2nd SHIFT (3 pm-11 pm)

C&S Plastics LLC

Fayetteville, TN

$13/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description

C&S Plastics supplies plastic injection molded parts to the automotive industry. We are currently hiring full-time machine operators for our facility in Fayetteville, TN.


We are seeking applicants with a good work ethic, dependable transportation, reliable attendance and a desire to become part of a longstanding, successful partner in the automotive sector.


Starting pay $13 per hour


Benefits Offered

  • Paid vacation after 6 months
  • Paid holidays after 30 days
  • No Co-pay doctor visits
  • Low health insurance premiums
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of TN HSA or PPO
  • Dental insurance available
  • Vision insurance available
  • Short & Long-Term Disability available
  • Company paid Life Insurance
  • Additional Life Insurance available
  • 401K Retirement


Responsibilities

  • Produce and pack quality product per work instructions
  • Inspect for visual defects and assemble parts as required
  • Report production on production report
  • Participate in problem solving, continuous improvement, and safety activities
  • Maintain housekeeping throughout area of responsibility
  • Adhere to all safety policies and goals of the company
  • Perform all other duties as the company may require


Requirements

  • High School diploma or G.E.D.
  • Lift up to 40 lbs.
  • Able to perform work of a repetitive nature
  • Able to stand for long periods of time
  • Stable work history
  • Available to work afternoon or night shift