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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

$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 ...

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 ...

2nd Shift - Machine Operator

Sheldon, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.25/hr

Transfer plastic resin into ovens for heating and into molds for forming. * Understand and follow ... processes. * Follow and track the production schedule. Qualifications: * Ability to work ...

Showing results 41-60

Plastic Processing Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$19

$29

How much do plastic processing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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 a plastic processing operator?

A plastic processing operator is a worker who operates machinery to manufacture plastic products, such as injection molding or extrusion machines. They set up, monitor, and maintain equipment, ensuring quality and safety standards are met in a manufacturing environment.

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 long is the plastic processing operator course?

The training for a plastic processing operator typically lasts from a few weeks to several months, depending on the program and whether it includes certification. Many courses cover equipment operation, safety procedures, and quality control, preparing individuals for entry-level roles in manufacturing environments.
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 42% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,313 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Machine Operator Trash Dock - 3rd Shift

Conagra Brands, Inc.

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

$21.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Conagra Brands rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

214th of 435 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Shift: 9:00 PM-5:00 AM
Hourly Rate: $21.20 an hour
Job Summary:
The Trash Dock associate will perform a variety of duties including but not limited to completing required paperwork, operating the controls on the compactors, adjusting when necessary; as well as baling & operating the trash compactors and balers.
Base rate: $21.20
Attendance bonus: for 3rd shift $.70
Essential Job Functions:
  • Ability to work the scheduled/assigned times and required overtime for position
  • Ability to read, write and comprehend English
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Must be well organized and able to prioritize multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Ability to operate P.I.T.'s (Sit-down Forklift & Pallet Jack)
  • Ability to work individually as well as with others as a team at all levels
  • Ability to push or pull up to 50 lbs. repetitively
  • Ability to push, pull, or tip 100+ lbs. repetitively

Job Duties:
  • Obtain all required paperwork for shift
  • Check compactors for anything out of the ordinary
  • Dumping & compacting trash into the trash compactors
  • Adding cardboard into the cardboard baler and bale the cardboard for recycling
  • Adding plastic &/or bucket into the vertical baler and bale the plastic &/or bucket for recycling
  • Pumping liquids (fats, oils & grease) into the designated tank
  • Monitoring the compacting process
  • Loading the cardboard, barrels, pallets, plastic &/or bucket and etc. onto the designated trailer
  • Cleaning compactors, totes, work area, etc.
  • Ensuring good housekeeping (interior and exterior) and 5S standards are met
  • Complete all required paperwork and document critical data
  • May perform general labor duties as assigned
  • May perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
  • Knowledge of GMP's and food allergens
  • Ability to be PIT Certified
  • Ability to be LOTO Certified
  • Knowledge of the 5S concept
  • Ability to work with animal and allergen products

Qualifications:
Education: High school diploma or GED preferred.
Experience: Minimum 3 months' production or related experience preferred.
Anticipated Close Date: June 25, 2026
Location: Council Bluffs, Iowa
Our Benefits
We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role:
  • Health: Medical, dental and vision insurance, company-paid life, accident and disability insurance
  • Wealth: Great pay, 401(k)/pension eligibility, financial wellness programs and stock purchase plan
  • Growth: Career development opportunities, employee resource groups and team collaboration
  • Balance: Paid-time off and volunteer opportunities

Our Company
At Conagra Brands, we have a rich heritage of making great food. We aspire to have the most impactful, energized and inclusive culture in food. As a member of our 18,000+ person team across 40+ locations, you are empowered to reach your potential, make an impact and own your career. We're in the business of building champions - within our people and our iconic brands like Birds Eye®, Slim Jim® and Reddi-Wip®.
Our focus on innovation extends beyond making great food, it also reflects our commitment to embracing new solutions that positively impact our team, the communities we serve and the health of our planet. Foodies Welcome.
Conagra Brands is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law. Reasonable accommodation may be made upon request.

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About Conagra Brands

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Conagra Brands (NYSE: CAG) is an approximately $11 billion company that combines a rich heritage of making great food with a sharpened focus and entrepreneurial spirit. We're transforming the way we operate to fulfill what consumers and customers want, in a smart, simple way. We're modernizing our iconic food brands, leveraging fresh opportunities and adapting to a changing landscape - all with a culture that's ready to capture growth and drive shareholder value.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1919

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