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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Republic Plastics

Extrusion Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Experience in Plastics Thermoforming is required. To review the full , click below: Production Extrusion Operator Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of ...

Monitise

Die Cut Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

... manufacturing of plastic debit and credit cards. * Adjust machine settings to maintain work ... Experience operating die cut or similar production equipment. * Experience in a high-volume ...

Fiserv, Inc.

Die Cut Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

... manufacturing of plastic debit and credit cards. * Adjust machine settings to maintain work ... Experience operating die cut or similar production equipment. * Experience in a high-volume ...

Westlake

Extruder Operator

Bristol, TN

In this role, you will set up and operate a minimum of six extrusion lines producing PVC plastic ... Operate and monitor a minimum of six extrusion lines while maintaining proper machine settings.

Westlake Corporation

Extruder Operator

Bristol, TN · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

In this role, you will set up and operate a minimum of six extrusion lines producing PVC plastic ... Operate and monitor a minimum of six extrusion lines while maintaining proper machine settings.

Binks US LLC

CNC Machining Operator

Jackson, TN · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Summary Set up, operate and troubleshoot machine tools such as lathes, milling machines and CNC ... from metal and plastic. Use precision measuring instruments to ensure that parts meet ...

Novolex

Reclaim Operator

Lebanon, TN

$22/hr

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 ...

Novolex

Reclaim Operator

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$22/hr

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 ...

Falcon Plastics

Quality Auditor

Lexington, TN

Inspects parts to determine compliance with customer's quality specification and Falcon Plastics ... Determines acceptable level and communicates quality standard to machine operator, molding/process ...

Falcon Plastics

Quality Auditor

Lexington, TN

Inspects parts to determine compliance with customer's quality specification and Falcon Plastics ... Determines acceptable level and communicates quality standard to machine operator, molding/process ...

Smiths Machine

CNC Machinist - Lathe - Day Shift

Lexington, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

Responsible for setting up and operating CNC machine tools to produce high-quality precision parts ... plastics). * Experience with CAM software and CAD/CAM integration. * Attention to detail, problem ...

Smiths Machine

CNC Machinist - Lathe - Day Shift

Bartlett, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Responsible for setting up and operating CNC machine tools to produce high-quality precision parts ... plastics). * Experience with CAM software and CAD/CAM integration. * Attention to detail, problem ...

Vytron

Extruder Operator (3rd Shift)

Loudon, TN · On-site

$18/hr

Stops extruder at the end of the run and disassembles and cleans the plastic from some or all of the extruder and die parts. * Tends machines and equipment other than extruder lines at times.

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Plastic Machine Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

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$14

$17

How much do plastic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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 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 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 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,405 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Extrusion Operator

Republic Plastics

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Republic Plastics rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
The Thermoforming/Extrusion Operator works at the direction of the Production Senior Lead and the Production Supervisor to ensure that the company safely and efficiently produces the highest quality products. This person is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of all thermoforming and/or extrusion production equipment and performing minor repairs as directed or trained. Actively and professionally trains less experienced full time and temporary associates in order to meet and exceed the company's production needs.
Responsibilities
To perform this job successfully, this individual must be able to perform each job duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed in the Thermoforming/Extrusion Operator job description are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. The list of job duties for the Thermoforming/Extrusion Operator is not all-encompassing. Associates will be expected to perform all other duties that may be assigned as necessary. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. For a detailed job description click the link below
Qualifications
The physical and mental abilities described in the Thermoforming/Extrusion Operator job description are representative of those that must be met by an associate to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. For a detailed job description, click the link below
Work Experience
High School Diploma (or GED or High School Equivalence Certificate). Equivalent experience may be substituted for an educational requirement where the associate demonstrates the necessary skills and capability. Experience in Plastics Thermoforming is required.
To review the full job description, click below:
Production Extrusion Operator
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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