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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Standex International

Machine Operator

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 ...

Standex International

Machine Operator

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 ...

Standex International

Machine Operator

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 ...

Standex Engraving

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 ...

Standex Engraving

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 ...

Century Plastics

Machine Operator

Utica, MI

$15 - $16.50/hr

Operator - Injection Molding Department: Manufacturing FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt Revision Date: 5/5/25 Reports to: Production Supervisor Primary Purpose: Operates an injection molding machine ...

Century Plastics

Machine Operator

Utica, MI

$15 - $16.50/hr

Operator - Injection Molding Department: Manufacturing FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt Revision Date: 5/5/25 Reports to: Production Supervisor Primary Purpose: Operates an injection molding machine ...

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All JobsPlastic Machine Operator JobsPlastic Machine Operator Jobs in Detroit, MI

Plastic Machine Operator information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$11

$14

$17

How much do plastic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic machine operator in Detroit, MI is $14.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $15.82 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 Detroit, MI? For Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Plastic Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Plastic Machine Operator job openings:
Plastic Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Machine Operator job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,652 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Machine Operator

Apex Placement & Consulting

Rochester Hills, MI

$17 - $18/hr

Contractor, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 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:
  • 2nd Shift opportunity 2:30pm - 11:00 om
  • 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.