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Poly Machine Operator Jobs in Birmingham, AL (NOW HIRING)

Ice Cream Packer - 2nd Shift

Homewood, AL

$14 - $16.75/hr

The packers assist the operators to ensure a smooth flow through the production line and help shut ... Order packaging material (paper, poly, cartons) from storage as needed. * Visually inspect boxes ...

Poly Machine Operator information

See Birmingham, AL salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do poly machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for poly machine operator in Birmingham, AL is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Poly Machine Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Poly Machine Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring prior manufacturing experience. Familiarity with poly extrusion machines, quality control instruments, and basic computer systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators efficiently address issues and maintain production flow. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring product quality, minimizing downtime, and maintaining a safe, efficient manufacturing environment.

What does a Poly Machine Operator do?

A Poly Machine Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery used in the production of polyethylene (poly) products, such as plastic films, bags, or sheets. Their duties include setting up machines, monitoring production quality, troubleshooting issues, making adjustments to equipment, and ensuring safety standards are met. They often work in manufacturing or packaging facilities and may be required to perform routine maintenance on the machines. Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols are essential in this role.

What is the difference between Poly Machine Operator vs Extrusion Machine Operator?

AspectPoly Machine OperatorExtrusion Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical training
Work EnvironmentPlastic manufacturing plants, factoriesPlastic, rubber, or metal manufacturing facilities
Industry UsagePlastic film, sheet, or container productionPlastic or rubber extrusion processes
Job FocusOperating and maintaining poly film or sheet machinesOperating extrusion equipment for various materials

The Poly Machine Operator and Extrusion Machine Operator roles share similar credentials and work environments, often within plastic manufacturing industries. The main difference lies in the specific materials and processes they handle: Poly Machine Operators focus on poly film and sheet production, while Extrusion Machine Operators work with a broader range of extruded materials like plastics and rubber. Both roles require technical skills and safety awareness, but their specific applications vary based on the product being manufactured.

What are some common challenges faced by Poly Machine Operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Poly Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, managing machine malfunctions, and meeting production deadlines. Addressing these issues typically involves regular equipment checks, prompt troubleshooting, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Staying organized and following safety protocols are also crucial to minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth operations. Continuous learning and staying updated on new machine technologies can further help operators overcome these challenges.

What jobs pay $700 a day?

Poly machine operators typically do not earn $700 a day; their wages depend on experience, location, and industry. High-paying roles in manufacturing or specialized trades may reach or exceed this level, especially with overtime or advanced skills. Generally, jobs paying $700 daily are often in skilled trades, management, or specialized technical fields requiring certifications and experience.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing of complex machinery, where operators with advanced skills, certifications, and experience can earn higher wages. Roles like CNC machine operators or those working with heavy industrial equipment tend to have higher salaries compared to general machine operators.

What is a poly operator?

A poly machine operator is responsible for operating and maintaining plastic film extrusion machines, often used in manufacturing packaging materials. They monitor machine performance, adjust settings, and ensure product quality, typically working in a production environment with safety and quality standards. Skills in machinery operation and understanding of plastic processing are essential for this role.

Is being a packaging operator hard?

Poly machine operators are responsible for operating and maintaining packaging equipment, which requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can involve repetitive tasks and working in a fast-paced environment, but it generally does not require advanced technical skills beyond basic machine operation and troubleshooting. Training is typically provided on the job, and physical stamina is important for long shifts.
What are popular job titles related to Poly Machine Operator jobs in Birmingham, AL? For Poly Machine Operator jobs in Birmingham, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Birmingham, AL are hiring for Poly Machine Operator jobs? Cities near Birmingham, AL with the most Poly Machine Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Poly Machine Operator job openings in Birmingham, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,451 per year, or $17 per hour.
Ice Cream Packer - 2nd Shift

$14 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Dairy Farmers Of America rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 164 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 58 rated farming


Job description

Join the sweetest team in town!

Are you ready to dive into a seriously delicious career opportunity? Do you have a knack for mechanics, an eagle eye for quality, and a need for perfection? Join our second shift team at Mayfield Ice Cream as an Ice Cream Packer and be a part of crafting the South's best ice cream and more!

Who We Are:

Mayfield Dairy Farms is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative owned by more than 12,500 family farmers and the world's largest provider of raw milk.Our fingerprints touch thousands of brands across the marketplace, and we're passionate about delivering the simple pleasures of dairy to people everywhere, straight from our family farm-owners. AtMayfield Dairy Farms in Birmingham, AL,we create ice cream products and are proud to provide families with fresh, delicious dairy.By joining DFA, you can help us continue to make a difference that matters. We care deeply about the well-being of our neighbors and friends, and we celebrate the diversity of our company and our world. It takes an incredible team to deliver the goodness of dairy and enrich our communities.

What You'll Do as an Ice Cream Packer on 2nd Shift:

As a packer you'll be filling those amazing boxes with delicious treats that Mayfield produces. The packers assist the operators to ensure a smooth flow through the production line and help shut the line down at the end of the shift. You'll assist preparing the line for sanitary cleaning and maintenance, your attention to detail will be a critical part of our production process.

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Order packaging material (paper, poly, cartons) from storage as needed.
  • Visually inspect boxes, cartons and other packaged materials for printing defects.
  • Ensure proper sizing of product containers.
  • Load packaging material onto machines in a timely manner to ensure no line stoppages or excessive loss.
  • Observe operation of equipment and perform necessary adjustments to ensure product specifications are met.
  • Perform net weight control checks and make equipment adjustments as needed.
  • Communicate any changes in product flow, equipment malfunctions, shortages or deviations from specifications to Production Supervisor, maintenance or other operators verbally and/or in writing.
  • Inspect packaging, coding and seals to verify conformance to specifications and performs necessary adjustments to ensure compliance.
  • Ensure the proper packaging materials are used for each product being produced.
  • Will have working knowledge and experience with wrapper operations; watching for jams and effectively threading wrap to prevent cost downtime due to handler error.
  • Ensure machine is supplied with correct material needed to run and complete log books as required.
  • Prepare equipment for next run to include size changes as needed.
  • Ensure all paperwork is filled out in a clear, legible and accurate format, and completed with required information.
  • Ensure all required information is documented in accordance with SOP's.
  • Analyze process data and equipment performance data to improve quality, throughput, and troubleshoot.
  • Utilize continuous improvement mindset, assist in identifying opportunities to improve processes.
  • Follow Good Manufacturing Practices.
  • Maintain a clean, sanitary and safe work area.
  • Follow all required work safe practices. This would include wearing of all required PPE in designated areas, confined space safety, safe chemical handling, fall restraints, etc.
  • Responsible for food safety, pre-requisite programs and food quality related to designated area.
  • Report any food safety and food quality related issues to management immediately.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, have mechanical aptitude, and are passionate about delivering great tasting, high quality products to ice cream lovers around the world, we want you on our team!

What You'll Bring:

  • A strong attention to detail and a commitment to safety and quality
  • Mechanical aptitude and a curiosity for how things run
  • A passion for doing things right, even when no one is looking
  • A team-first attitude with excellent communication skills
  • Physical stamina to work on your feet, lift, and move up to 50 lbs on a repeated basis
  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred
  • Able to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions and decimals
  • Able to work in an environment where temperature is maintained at 35-40 degrees Fahrenheit
  • May from time-to-time, be able to work in an environment where the temperature is maintained at minus 22 degrees Fahrenheit
  • May be exposed to nut allergens
  • Must be willing to work flexible hours including overtime, weekends and holidays
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Must be able to pass all pre-employment screens (including drug, background and criminal checks)

Why Join Us?

  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits and 401k w/Company match after 60 days
  • Competitive hourly wage with opportunities for overtime and advancement
  • Training and advancement to help you grow and advance
  • Fun and supportive work environment where your contributions are valued
  • We make ice cream (and we like to share with our employees)!

Schedule:

  • Monday - Friday, 2:00 PM - 10:30 PM
  • Opportunities for overtime

We're passionate about making the world a little sweeter, one scoop at a time!

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans


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