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Plastic Processing Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Fermentation Operator

Winchester, KY ยท On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Wellness resources Winchester, KY | Biodegradable Plastics Schedule: 12 Hour Shifts on a 2-2-3 ... Monitor fermentation processes and respond to process or equipment deviations * Troubleshoot ...

Line Operator

Calhoun, KY ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Manages a plastic extrusion line to ensure finished goods meet quality specifications that meet ... Troubleshoot process and mechanical problems and perform repairs and adjustments to meet production ...

Removes plastic parts from machine by hand. May be required to use step(s) to enter machine or work ... Monitors quality of product and notifies process techs, and/or quality. * Weighs parts as required ...

Removes plastic parts from machine by hand. May be required to use step(s) to enter machine or work ... Monitors quality of product and notifies process techs, and/or quality. * Weighs parts as required ...

Foam Operator I - Nights

Hopkinsville, KY

$17.50 - $22/hr

Monitor and adjust process parameters such as temperature profiles, pressure, blowing agents, screw ... Experience in extrusion or plastics manufacturing preferred * Strong mechanical aptitude and ...

Foam Operator 1 - Days

Hopkinsville, KY ยท On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Monitor and adjust process parameters such as temperature profiles, pressure, blowing agents, screw ... Experience in extrusion or plastics manufacturing preferred * Strong mechanical aptitude and ...

Chemical Operator

Murray, KY ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18/hr

Vanderbilt Company founded in 1916, manufactures specialty chemicals that support rubber, plastics ... other process steps, sampling products for quality checks, and recording operating data. The ...

As a Production Line Operator, you'll be at the heart of our manufacturing process: * Monitor plastic extrusion or stranding lines to ensure high-quality, timely cable production. * Perform machine ...

Showing results 21-40

Plastic Processing Operator information

See Kentucky salary details

$12

$18

$26

How much do plastic processing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic processing operator in Kentucky is $18.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $20.05 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 Kentucky? For Plastic Processing Operator jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plastic Processing Operator jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Processing Operator jobs in Kentucky are:
What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Plastic Processing Operator jobs? Cities in Kentucky with the most Plastic Processing Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Plastic Processing Operator job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,201 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Fermentation Operator

Danimer Scientific

Winchester, KY โ€ข On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discounts
  • Free uniforms
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
  • Wellness resources

Winchester, KY | Biodegradable Plastics
Schedule: 12 Hour Shifts on a 2-2-3 pattern (Day or Night Availability Required)
Employment Type: Non-Exempt | Full-time
About the Role
At Danimer Scientific, we're building the future of sustainable materials which starts with people who prioritize safety, take pride in quality, and operational excellence. As a Fermentation Operations Technician, you'll play a hands-on role in operating and monitoring our fermentation processes while helping produce innovative, biodegradable materials in a cGMP manufacturing environment while working with a collaborative team.
If you enjoy technical work, problem solving, and want to be part of a collaborative team focused on quality and safety, we'd love to meet you.
โš™ What You'll Do
Working under the guidance of the Fermentation Team Leader and Manufacturing Management, you'll support day-to-day fermentation operations and help ensure safe, efficient, and compliant production.
Key Responsibilities Include:
  • Operate and monitor fermentation process equipment and utilities
  • Perform equipment setup, valve operation, and sterilization of tanks and piping
  • Monitor fermentation processes and respond to process or equipment deviations
  • Troubleshoot equipment and process issues while initiating appropriate corrective actions
  • Review and complete batch records and production documentation in compliance with cGMP standards
  • Maintain clean, organized, and audit-ready production areas
  • Communicate production updates and collaborate with Quality, Maintenance, and Manufacturing teams
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, and efficiency
  • Train and support new and developing operators
  • Promote a strong safety culture by identifying and reporting quality or safety concerns

What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced production environment
  • Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office

Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate degree in Applied Process Technologies, Biotechnology, or a related field
  • 3+ years of experience in biotech or cGMP manufacturing
  • Working knowledge of cGMP requirements, quality systems, and manufacturing safety standards

Work Schedule
  • Full-time, 12-hour shifts
  • Days or nights, including weekends, holidays, and overtime as required

Physical & Work Environment Requirements
  • Ability to stand, walk, climb stairs and ladders, and perform repetitive tasks throughout the shift
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. occasionally
  • Work in hot, cold, loud, and industrial manufacturing environments
  • Use required PPE, including hearing protection in designated areas
  • Exposure to moving mechanical equipment, vibration, fumes, and airborne particles

Why Danimer?
  • Meaningful work advancing sustainable materials
  • Growth and development opportunities
  • Competitive pay and benefits
  • Collaborative, team-first culture

Equal Opportunity Employer
Danimer Scientific is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
Apply today and help us build a more sustainable future
We're advancing the future of sustainable materials - and we're not alone!
Our commitment to replacing traditional plastics with biodegradable, compostable solutions is now backed by a strong, new partnership with - a global leader in material science. Together, we're turning shared vision and shared values into real-world impact.
Join us as we celebrate a partnership that moves sustainability forward!