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Plastic Machine Operator Jobs in Indianapolis, IN

Meyer Plastics

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$18/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for operating production machinery to ensure efficient performance. Schedule & Pay * Full-time, onsite * Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM * Starting: $18.00 per ...

Plastic Recycling, Inc

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $17/hr

The Machine Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of grinding equipment used to process recyclable materials. This role supports daily production activities by operating ...

Meyer Plastics Inc

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN

$18/hr

Description We are looking for a dependable and detail-oriented Machine Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating production machinery to ensure efficient ...

Meyer Plastics Inc

Machine Operator

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$18/hr

Description We are looking for a dependable and detail-oriented Machine Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating production machinery to ensure efficient ...

Stevanato Group S.p.A.

Molding Operator

Fishers, IN · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

The Molding Operator plays a critical role in the manufacturing process by operating and maintaining plastic molding machinery to produce high-quality molded components. This position requires ...

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All JobsPlastic Machine Operator JobsPlastic Machine Operator Jobs in Indianapolis, IN

Plastic Machine Operator information

See Indianapolis, IN salary details

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$15

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How much do plastic machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic machine operator in Indianapolis, IN is $15.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $16.54 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 Indianapolis, IN?

For Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Indianapolis, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Indianapolis, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Plastic Machine Operator jobs in Indianapolis, IN are:

Plastic Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Machine Operator job openings in Indianapolis, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,021 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Press (Machine) Operator 12AM-6:15AM

Metro Plastics Technologies, Inc.

Noblesville, IN

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Press (Machine) Operator 12AM-6:15AM
Reports To: Supervisor
Supervisor: No
FLSA Status: Hourly/Nonexempt
Employment Type: Regular, Full-time
ABOUT METRO PLASTICS TECHNOLOGIES
Metro Plastics Technologies is an industry leader in custom plastic injection molding. With over 50 ears in business, Metro Plastics has extensive plastic production capabilities, engineering expertise, and a dedicated on-site tool room and metrology lab supporting operations in a newly built state-of-the-art facility in Noblesville, IN.
PURPOSE: The Press (Machine) Operator performs a variety of specialized functions from tending a molding machine to finishing and assembly operations. The Press Operator follows work instructions to ensure efficient operation of injection molding machinery and precision operations; monitors and checks that parts manufactured in plastic molding machines meet customer quality requirements and communicates any variances to their supervisor.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  1. Will rotate and tend to various molding machine(s) as assigned to monitor the performance of the machine and to handle and inspect parts produced from the machine
  2. Understand and follow specific verbal or written instructions and quality standards to ensure successful production of plastic parts. Document and communicate any anomalies
  3. Inspect parts made at the press for any defects and only pass those parts that meet the quality standards
  4. May be required to utilize small handle tools and other specialized equipment to perform secondary processing of parts made from the machines
  5. Maintain good housekeeping and safe working environment of production area. Uses safety guards (Personal Protective Equipment) to remain safe while working
  6. Assemble, reassembles or reworks parts as required
  7. Other duties as assigned
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:
  • H.S. Diploma or GED; technical or vocational school training in related field of study a plus
  • 1-6 months of work experience, previous experience in a manufacturing environment preferred
  • Ability to use small hand cutting tools
  • Previous experience working with injection molding machines
  • Ability to adapt to changing priorities with strong time management skills in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Self-starter and able to effectively work without close supervision
  • Flexibility and ability to handle and manage change effectively and efficiently
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Work is performed in a manufacturing environment
  • Employee will stand or walk most of their work hours
  • Employee will routinely use hands to finger, handle, or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  • Employee will occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus
BENEFITS
  • Competitive Pay and Flexible Work Schedules
  • Insurance
    • ​Medical, Dental and Vision
    • Company Paid Basic Life and Short-term Disability
    • Employee Paid Voluntary Life and Critical Illness Plans
  • PTO, Floating and Company Paid Holidays
  • 401(k)
Equal Opportunity Employer
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