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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Toyota Boshoku America

Machine Operator

Jackson, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Primary job focus is to operate machinery, light assembly, product inspection, and packaging. As ... Hot plastic, metal and cardboard could result in minor hand injuries. There must be constant ...

New

eCard Systems

Be Seen First

Machine Operator - 1st & 2nd Shift

Nashville, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Description eCard Systems is looking for Permanent Production Operators in plastic gift card ... Able to use industrial machinery. Ability to understand and apply instructions and correction. Can ...

New

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 ...

CRH

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Franklin, TN

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

... plastic infrastructure products. Our portfolio of brands includes Oldcastle APG, Oldcastle ... Performs routine machine maintenance * Assists other operators to set up machines and any other ...

Clayens

3rd Shift - Machine Operator I

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$15.25/hr

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 ...

Clayens

2nd Shift - Machine Operator I

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$15.25/hr

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 ...

VetJobs

Load Builder - Knoxville, TN

Knoxville, TN · On-site

COMPETENCIES Requires forklift operator certification Knowledge of company products sufficient to take into account weight, shape and handling requirements Ability to read and write to handle work ...

NIC Global

2nd Shift Machine Operators

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

... plastic components. We provide products to great customers such as Philips, PACCAR (Kenworth ... Stamping Press, Brake Press, Turrtet Operator SHIFT: 2nd 4:40pm until 3:10 am Monday thru Thursday ...

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All JobsPlastic Machine Operator JobsPlastic Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Plastic Machine Operator information

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How much do plastic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 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 extruder operator a hard job?

A plastic machine operator, including extruder operators, typically works in manufacturing environments and may face physically demanding tasks, such as handling heavy equipment and maintaining precise control over machinery. The job requires attention to safety protocols, technical skills, and sometimes shift work, but whether it is hard depends on individual experience and work conditions.

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 qualifications do you need for injection molding?

Plastic machine operators working with injection molding typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic math skills, and familiarity with manufacturing equipment. Some employers prefer candidates with technical training or certifications in machine operation or safety procedures. Experience with plastic materials and understanding of quality control are also beneficial.

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, experience, and skills in operating complex machinery 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 machine operator's job salary?

A plastic machine operator's salary typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the machinery operated. Skilled operators with certifications and experience may earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing environments with shift work or overtime opportunities.
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
Machine Operator

Machine Operator

Toyota Boshoku America

Jackson, TN • On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Primary Job Function:
Primary job focus is to operate machinery, light assembly, product inspection, and packaging. As with all Toyota Boshoku Jackson Tennessee Associates, an Operator is responsible for supporting the company's mission statement and overall business objectives by living the quality philosophy, following the environmental policy, and actively working to improve production results. Ability to rotate through multiple jobs within the department, filling in where needed on a daily basis.
Primary Responsibilities:
A. Responsible for the Safety of Others-Minimal safety responsibility for others.
B. Responsible for Work of Others-Minimal responsibility for the work of other Associates. When working in an assembly or sequential operation, poor performance will impact on the productivity of the entire group.
C. Equipment/Process Responsibility-Minimal impact on equipment under normal care and use conditions.
D. Product/Material Responsibility/Pallet Jack -There must be a continual monitoring of the quality of the product to insure it meets specifications.
E. Assist with training/coaching new associates and monitoring quality.
F. Must complete Job Instruction Training.
G. Must be versatile to work in any department at Toyota Boshoku Jackson Tennessee.
H. Must have an open mind and respect for individuals.
Minimum Qualifications/Requirements:
Education:
High School Diploma or GED
Experience:
No prior experience is necessary. Should have demonstrated ability to perform their current job satisfactorily. Possess the desire and ability to learn other jobs willingly. Should be in good standing with the company.
Personal/Technical Skills:
• Job Complexity-Operators follow well established procedures and processes and use some judgement and initiative to make minor adjustments that they have been trained to do. They have the authority to stop the process for safety reasons and in order to prevent off-quality product or equipment damage.
• Supervision Received/Independence of Work-Operators work under the general direction of a supervisor with the pace of work established by the rate of the equipment. Non-routine situations are referred to the supervisor.
Language Skills:
English, both written and oral required
Work Environment/Conditions:
Plant:
Standard automotive plant environment with moderate noise level. PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as safety glasses, steel toe shoes, hearing protection, etc. may be required in engineering, manufacturing, or industrial areas. Personal attire standards may apply.
Physical Demands:
• Physical/Mental/Visual Demands-Moderate physical effort is required including standing, bending and light to moderate lifting to 33 lbs. A high level of manual dexterity is required as well as the ability to sustain normal levels of mental and visual attention for extended periods.
• Working Conditions/Hazards-Overall plant environment is good with climate control, limited exposure to chemicals, fumes, loud noises, and inherently hazardous equipment. Operators regularly perform repetitive motions which could result in minor hand injuries. Hot plastic, metal and cardboard could result in minor hand injuries. There must be constant adherence to established safety procedures and continual evaluation of work surrounds for potential hazards
Disclaimer: This job description is intended to identify the general nature and level of work performed by team members within this classification, as well as certain essential job functions. It is not intended, and should not be interpreted, as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of team members assigned to this job. To qualify for this job, however, a team member must be able to perform its essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation. Under no circumstances may this job description be construed as altering the at-will nature of the employment relationship between TBA and any team member.

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