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Plastic Processing Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts ... process. * Manually assemble/install various liquid packaging component parts including but not ...

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts ... process. * Manually assemble/install various liquid packaging component parts including but not ...

IA · On-site

$21.20/hr

Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts ... process. * Manually assemble/install various liquid packaging component parts including but not ...

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts ... process. * Manually assemble/install various liquid packaging component parts including but not ...

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

Replenish and unload components, such as corrugated cardboard, glue, plastic wrap, pumps, inserts ... process. * Manually assemble/install various liquid packaging component parts including but not ...

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Showing results 1-20

Plastic Processing Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$19

$29

How much do plastic processing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic processing operator in Iowa is $19.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $21.68 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.
What are popular job titles related to Plastic Processing Operator jobs in Iowa? For Plastic Processing Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plastic Processing Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Processing Operator jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Plastic Processing Operator job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,313 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Machine Operator II

$23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description

As Machine Operator II with Safco Products, you will utilize high-quality standards and solid machining techniques to ensure proper fabrication of our parts for the final product. In this role, you will be expected to operate and set up machines according to job specifications, perform quality checks and communicate issues. Your experience and background will allow you to troubleshoot and train and guide others within your skilled areas.

This full-time position reports directly to the designated Production Supervisor and is located at Safco’s manufacturing plant in Milford, IA. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Operate machine by setting up orders according to customer specifications, following order readiness process of efficiently preparing the right tools to complete the job. Fabrication equipment could include: (eg: brake presses, fiber laser, coil presses, panel bender, CNC machines, saws, routers, etc.). 
  • Perform quality checks by inspecting a first article, and articles throughout the order to identify errors, ensuring quality products along with monitoring equipment and raw materials. 
  • Enter production metrics into a computer electronic system to accurately track progress of production rates, quality, maintenance, and downtime.
  • Proactively communicate issues with equipment to appropriate leaders, trouble shoot issues, and problem solve individually and as a team to maximize overall equipment efficiency and minimize downtime.
  • Train and guide others within their skilled areas.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Follow plant safety processes and procedures outlined for the machine center. 
  • Other duties, as assigned

REQUIRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

  • High School diploma or GED
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety
  • Previous experience with reading a tape measure to within 1/16” measurement
  • Must be able to read prints and use inspection equipment/measuring devices
  • Previous experience with computer using skills such as typing, printing, and data entry
  • Previous experience applying math skills such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
  • Previous experience reading and completing detailed work instructions

PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

  • 3 -5 years of experience within a Metal/Wood Fabrication environment with machine experience. 
  • Experience with an ERP system, a plus.
  • Experience with operational excellence or continuous improvement programs – Lean 6 Sigma, Kaizen Events

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The starting pay rate for this position is $23.50 per hour. The compensation posted is the anticipated pay for the position at the time of the posting. We may pay above or below posted amount based on several factors, including, but not limited to education and/or certifications, skills, experience, or work location.  Some positions may qualify for additional compensation in the form of bonuses.

At LDI, we are pleased to provide employees with a comprehensive benefits package including health/dental/vision insurance options; paid time off; 10 paid holidays; 401(k) plus company matching and annual discretionary profit sharing; flexible spending and health savings account options; life and disability insurance; tuition assistance; wellness and mental health resources, and financial advising services.  Eligibility in benefit programs is based on hours worked per week.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Must be able to lift up-to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to work in hot, humid, and cold manufacturing environment
  • Must be able to work in crowded spaces for 4+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to bend and stoop for 7+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to stand for 6+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to walk for 6+ hours per shift
  • Must be able to reach and grasp up to 6+ hours per shift

ABOUT OUR COMPANY

Comprised of multiple companies with headquarters in New Hope, Minnesota, Liberty Diversified International (LDI) is a privately held company employing more than 1,900 individuals across our manufacturing facilities, production facilities and core business operations in Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, Mississippi, Texas, Arizona, Virginia, California, and Mexico. With deep roots in the corrugated box manufacturing industry, we operate in the core markets of paper, packaging, workplace products, corrugated plastics and building products.

Since 1918, our values – Caring, Innovation, Trust and Excellence – have guided our day-to-day activities. We believe that when our employees are aligned with these values, we create superior service and solutions for our customers. The LDI family of companies includes Liberty Packaging, Liberty Paper, Liberty Plastics (Custom Solutions and Quarrix Building Products) and Safco.

Liberty Diversified International is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, creed, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, disability, or any other protected class.