1

Plastic Processing Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania

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

Set up, operate, and monitor paper and plastic processing equipment. * Load raw materials into ... Machine Operator Job Requirements: * Previous machine operator, production, manufacturing, or ...

PA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Plastic Extrusion Machine set-up and operator experience with some maintenance experience relative plastic processing helpful. Experience with automated equipment a plus. mechanical aptitude required

Process Operator

Marcus Hook, PA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

With its corporate DNA rooted in innovation, Braskem offers a comprehensive portfolio of plastic ... Operator is responsible for the safe operation of associate process and equipment. The operator ...

Process Operator

Marcus Hook, PA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

With its corporate DNA rooted in innovation, Braskem offers a comprehensive portfolio of plastic ... Operator is responsible for the safe operation of associate process and equipment. The operator ...

Process Operator

Philadelphia, PA

$19.25 - $24.25/hr

With its corporate DNA rooted in innovation, Braskem offers a comprehensive portfolio of plastic ... Operator is responsible for the safe operation of associate process and equipment. The operator ...

Process Operator

Marcus Hook, PA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

With its corporate DNA rooted in innovation, Braskem offers a comprehensive portfolio of plastic ... Operator is responsible for the safe operation of associate process and equipment. The operator ...

Plastics Process Technician

Clinton, PA · On-site

$30.10 - $51.20/hr

Understands characteristics and processing requirements for a wide variety of plastic resins (K ... Follows all applicable standard operating procedures, manufacturing instructions and/or standing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Plastic Processing Operator information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do plastic processing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic processing operator in Pennsylvania is $21.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $23.12 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 Pennsylvania? For Plastic Processing Operator jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plastic Processing Operator jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Plastic Processing Operator jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Plastic Processing Operator jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Plastic Processing Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Plastic Processing Operator job openings in Pennsylvania 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 $44,090 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Plastic Process Technician

Dart Container

Leola, PA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Dart Container rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Plastic Process Technician - Night Shift (Blue Nights)

Shift: 8:00 PM - 8:15 AM (Rotating 3-4 day schedule, including weekends)


About the Role

We are seeking a skilled Plastic Process Technician to support and optimize our manufacturing operations. In this hands-on role, you will be responsible for setting up, troubleshooting, and improving plastic processing equipment, including thermoforming, extrusion, and/or injection molding systems.

This role is ideal for someone with a strong mechanical and troubleshooting background who thrives in a fast-paced production environment and enjoys working collaboratively to drive efficiency, quality, and continuous improvement.


What You'll Do
  • Set up, start up, and monitor plastic processing equipment (thermoforming, extrusion, and/or injection molding)
  • Troubleshoot equipment, process issues, and quality defects in real time
  • Adjust machine parameters to optimize production efficiency, product quality, and cycle times
  • Perform basic mechanical maintenance and repairs, including work with valves, pumps, and mechanical components
  • Support mold/die changes and assist with equipment changeovers
  • Identify root causes of downtime and implement corrective actions
  • Partner with engineering and maintenance teams to improve equipment performance and reliability
  • Assist in fine-tuning equipment and processes to meet production and quality standards
  • Maintain accurate documentation related to process settings, downtime, and maintenance activity
  • Follow all safety procedures and support a safe working environment

What We're Looking For Required:
  • 2+ years of experience in plastic processing (thermoforming, extrusion, or injection molding)
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
  • Experience working with production equipment and process adjustments
  • Ability to work night shift (12-hour rotating schedule)
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment

Preferred:
  • Experience performing equipment setup and changeovers
  • Familiarity with valves, pneumatics, hydraulics, and mechanical systems
  • Maintenance experience (preventive or corrective)
  • Experience identifying and resolving process-related defects
  • Previous experience coaching or supporting less experienced operators

Physical & Work Environment
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (8-12 hours)
  • Ability to lift up to 40 lbs as needed
  • Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with noise, machinery, and PPE requirements

Why Join Us?
  • Competitive pay, including shift differential for nights
  • Opportunity to work with advanced plastic processing equipment
  • Career growth into senior technician or maintenance roles
  • Collaborative, team-oriented environment focused on continuous improvement
  • Hands-on role where your impact on production is visible every day

Overview: Dart makes everyday products that give people the freedom to enjoy the food & drinks they love, wherever they are. From to-go containers and dinnerware to tamper-evident food packaging and even the red SOLO cup, Dart products have been keeping people on the go and having fun for 65 years.  We're a family-owned, family-focused company of 12,000 employees united by a shared set of values and dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. Headquartered in Mason, MI, with 30 locations in three countries, we're proud of our ability to innovate, manufacture and lead the way with each new generation of quality products.

Benefits: Dart Container full-time employees enjoy great benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) with company matching contributions, paid vacation, paid holidays, short-term disability, tuition assistance, product discounts and more.

Dart Container is a drug-free workplace.  Candidates are subject to a drug test (excluding THC*/marijuana/cannabis) and background check at the time of offer.

*THC testing ONLY when such testing is required by law.
Dart Container is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all candidates for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

https://www.dartcontainer.com/eeoaa/

If you have a disability and need an accommodation to access this website or for the application process, you should call Dart at (800) 545-3278 Ext 3370 or email us at ADArequests@dart.biz. Relay calls can be made by dialing 711 or the relay number for your state.

If you experience difficulty applying online, you may call (800) 545-3278 Ext 3390 or email us at applicationassistance@dart.biz for assistance.

#LI-KH1


What Dart Container employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom