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Plastic Processing Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Antibiotics

Plastics Processing Operator I

Bristol, TN

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Sets up, operates and maintains plastic molding machinery and support equipment. * Assures the ... Processing Operator II as requested. * Execute work orders as required for the department.

US Antibiotics

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 ... Processing Operator II as requested. * Execute work orders as required for the department.

Dart Container

Plastic Process Technician

Leola, PA · On-site

Set up, start up, and monitor plastic processing equipment (thermoforming, extrusion, and/or ... Previous experience coaching or supporting less experienced operators Physical & Work Environment

Surge Staffing

Machine Operator

Henderson, NV · On-site

$18/hr

Operate and monitor production machinery, including Sidel, plastic processing, and palletizing ... Previous experience operating Sidel, plastic, or palletizing machines required * Strong mechanical ...

Surge Staffing

Machine Operator

Henderson, NV · On-site

$18/hr

Operate and monitor production machinery, including Sidel, plastic processing, and palletizing ... Previous experience operating Sidel, plastic, or palletizing machines required * Strong mechanical ...

Milacron

Manual Lathe Operator - 1st Shift

Norcross, GA · On-site

... plastic technology and processing industry. We are the only global company with a full-line product ... operating ("MRO") supplies for plastic processing equipment. Our strategy is to deliver highly ...

Milacron

Machine Operator - 2nd Shift

Mount Orab, OH · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

... plastic technology and processing industry. We are the only global company with a full-line product ... operating ("MRO") supplies for plastic processing equipment. Our strategy is to deliver highly ...

Uponor North America

Extruder Operator

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$19/hr

Troubleshoot all operating equipment. * Process all materials. * Start-up and shut down of ... Minimum of eight years of plastic processing experience performing sophisticated set-ups or six ...

FIVE STAR MANAGEMENT

Operator (UPK)

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Set up and operate plastic processing machinery such as injection molding machines, extruders, or blow molding machines according to standard operating procedures. * Perform job roll changes / clear ...

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Plastic Processing Operator information

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How much do plastic processing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic processing operator in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often found 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. Roles like CNC machine operators, industrial machinery supervisors, or those with advanced certifications and experience tend to have the highest salaries in the field.

What is a plastic processing operator?

A plastic processing operator is a worker who operates machinery to manufacture plastic products by shaping, molding, or extruding plastic materials. They typically monitor equipment, ensure quality standards, and may need certifications in safety or machinery operation. The role often involves working in manufacturing environments with attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols.

What qualifications do you need for injection molding?

Plastic Processing Operators working with injection molding typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or certification in plastics processing. Experience with machinery operation, understanding of safety protocols, and knowledge of material properties are also important for the role.

What is the difference between Plastic Processing Operator vs Plastic Technician?

AspectPlastic Processing OperatorPlastic Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, technical certification preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production linesManufacturing facilities, quality control labs
Job FocusOperating machinery, monitoring productionMaintaining, troubleshooting, and improving processes
Industry UsageCommonly employed in plastic manufacturingOften involved in process optimization and quality assurance

The Plastic Processing Operator primarily focuses on operating and monitoring plastic manufacturing machinery, ensuring smooth production. In contrast, the Plastic Technician handles maintenance, troubleshooting, and process improvements to optimize production quality and efficiency. Both roles are essential in the plastic manufacturing industry but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

How much do extruder operators make in the US?

Plastic processing operators, including extruder operators, typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000 in the US. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment operated, with some earning higher with specialized skills or certifications.
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What cities are hiring for Plastic Processing Operator jobs? Cities with the most Plastic Processing Operator job openings:
What states have the most Plastic Processing Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Plastic Processing Operator jobs include:
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Plastic Processing Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Processing Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,984 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Plastics Processing Operator I

US Antibiotics

Bristol, TN

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Overview

USAntibiotics, the only U.S. manufacturer of Amoxicillin products, is part of the Jackson Healthcare family of companies. We're always looking to add new talent to our teams, and we value diverse professionals who have strong leadership skills, align with our culture, and are committed to excellence.

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Plastics Processing Operator operates and maintains plastic molding machinery and support equipment to produce pharmaceutical containers to specifications.ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Perform all duties mindful of personal and fellow associates safety.
  • Sets up, operates and maintains plastic molding machinery and support equipment.
  • Assures the production of pharmaceutical containers meet quality specifications.
  • Performs minor and major repairs to production machinery.
  • Maintains production records.
  • Warehouses finished product.
  • Perform all departmental documentation i.e. logbooks, training records, cleaning records, etc.
  • Monitor equipment status and initiate minor/major repairs to same as needed.
  • Troubleshoot and diagnose equipment functions when required.
  • Monitor and report needs of spares or replacement parts for Plastics equipment.
  • Assist with training Plastics Processing Operator II as requested.
  • Execute work orders as required for the department.
  • Perform duties in accordance with departmental cGMPs, SOPs, and safety rules.
  • Perform any non-routine duties assigned by immediate supervisor.
  • Willingly participate in any duties required to support other departments in their functions.
  • Display a positive team attitude to support the success of the department and the site.
  • Loads and unloads trucks as required for operation of Plastics.
  • Participates in the performance of sanitation duties for department as required.
  • This position requires an exceptional level of trouble-shooting/diagnostic skill as well as a highly developed operational skill of the Plastics equipment.
  • Monitors bottle production to ensure quality.
  • Maintains accurate and complete records of plastics production.
  • Operates and maintains plastics equipment in keeping with LSOP's.
  • Reports to supervision quality critical concerns
  • Assesses bottle quality in reference to specifications.
  • Determines performance of plastics production machinery
  • Makes decisions in regards to production machinery and floor operations with minimum supervision

QUALIFICATIONS-EDUCTAION, WORK EXPERIENCE, CERTIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Four years' of mechanical experience with machine setup and operation.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Ability to read and comprehend instructions.
  • Skilled in operating calipers, micrometers, height gauges, and hand tools.
  • Ability to work with minimum supervision and function as a team member
  • Working knowledge of mechanics, pneumatics, hydraulics, and electrical
  • Physical stamina and ability to lift 75 lbs.
  • Good recordkeeping skills
  • Must satisfactorily complete the departmental visual acuity testing annually
  • Ability to operate a powered pallet truck
  • Comfortable working from ladders or elevated platform.

EEO Statement:

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under the law.

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