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Plastic Processing Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Pregis

Foam Operator 1 - Days

Hopkinsville, KY · On-site

$17 - $20.25/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 ...

Pregis

Foam Operator I - Nights

Hopkinsville, KY · On-site

$17 - $20.25/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 ...

Menasha Corporation

Production Operator Day Shift

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

... plastic packaging products and related services to major global companies. Our employees make the ... If STW is not available for a process, ensure proper training techniques are followed to maintain ...

Menasha Corporation

Production Operator Day Shift

Bardstown, KY · On-site

$14.75 - $17.75/hr

... plastic packaging products and related services to major global companies. Our employees make the ... If STW is not available for a process, ensure proper training techniques are followed to maintain ...

PrysmianGroup

Production Line Operator

Lawrenceburg, KY · On-site

$21.24/hr

Tuition reimbursement and scholarships for employees and dependents Production Line Operator Role As a Production Line Operator, you'll be at the heart of our manufacturing process: * Monitor plastic ...

Prysmian Group

Production Line Operator

Lawrenceburg, KY · On-site

$21.24/hr

Tuition reimbursement and scholarships for employees and dependents Production Line Operator Role As a Production Line Operator, you'll be at the heart of our manufacturing process: * Monitor plastic ...

Amcor

Machine Operator II - One Step

Nicholasville, KY · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Maintain process, maintenance, and machine reference logs. * Enter daily production numbers into ... Experience in plastics manufacturing and one-step or injection machinery preferred. * Interpersonal ...

Amcor plc

Machine Operator II - One Step

Nicholasville, KY · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Maintain process, maintenance, and machine reference logs. * Enter daily production numbers into ... Experience in plastics manufacturing and one-step or injection machinery preferred. * Interpersonal ...

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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:
Plastic Processing Operator jobs near you
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.

Foam Operator 1 - Days

Pregis

Hopkinsville, KY • On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Pregis rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 119 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

We're Not Just in the Packaging Business-We're in the "Wow" Business
Pregis is Hiring!
Why Join Pregis?
Pregis is in the packaging business to protect what matters. We are committed to providing our customers and employees sustainable growth through purpose-driven innovation and customer-centric packaging solutions. If you are looking for a company that is thriving across various high growth industries and is innovative, customer focused, high integrity, believes in strong teamwork and collaboration, Pregis is the company for you. Check out the Pregis Purpose to learn how sustainability and social responsibility is at the very core of our company DNA.
Job Description: PE Foam Extrusion Line Operator - 2-2-3, 12 hour day shift
Position Summary
The PE Foam Extrusion Line Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining polyethylene (PE) foam extrusion equipment to produce high-quality foam products in compliance with company specifications and safety standards. This role requires strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot process and equipment issues specific to PE foam production.
Key Responsibilities
  • Set up and operate PE foam extrusion lines, including extruders, dies, cooling systems, and downstream equipment
  • Monitor and adjust process parameters such as temperature profiles, pressure, blowing agents, screw speed, and line speed
  • Perform product changeovers, start-ups, and shutdowns efficiently for various PE foam products
  • Inspect finished foam for density, thickness, cell structure, and surface quality to meet specifications
  • Troubleshoot quality issues such as shrinkage, collapse, uneven cell structure, or surface defects
  • Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and die conditioning to ensure optimal extrusion performance
  • Accurately complete production records, batch logs, and quality documentation
  • Follow safety procedures for handling heated materials, pressurized systems, and blowing agents
  • Coordinate with maintenance, quality, and production teams to optimize uptime and efficiency
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment

Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Experience in extrusion or plastics manufacturing preferred
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to read and understand work instructions, specifications, and SOPs
  • Basic math skills for measurements and production calculations
  • Ability to safely operate manufacturing equipment
  • Willingness to work in a fast-paced production environment

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with polyethylene (PE) foam extrusion
  • Familiarity with blowing agents and foam expansion processes
  • Experience with PLC/HMI control systems
  • Forklift certification (or willingness to obtain)
  • Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand for extended periods
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Comfortable working in a hot, noisy manufacturing environment
  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination

Work Environment
Manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, noise, moving machinery, and chemical blowing agents. Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Key Competencies
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving and troubleshooting
  • Teamwork and communication
  • Reliability and time management
  • Strong safety focus

#RTU1
Diversity and Inclusion
We believe in diversity of thought and bringing together other traits and characteristics that make an individual bring a unique experience to Pregis. We strive to foster an inclusive environment where behaviors and social norms ensure people are welcome.
Affirmative Action/EEO Statement/Inclusion
We offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We support inclusion and believe in welcoming a collective sum of individual differences, thoughts, traits, and characteristics to represent Pregis' culture and achievements.
Visit us at www.pregis.com for more information about Pregis LLC.

What Pregis employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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About Pregis

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Deerfield, IL, US

Year founded

2005

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