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Poly Machine Operator Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Poly Machine Operator information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$11

$17

$22

How much do poly machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for poly machine operator in Tucson, AZ is $17.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $18.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Poly Machine Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ?

For Poly Machine Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Poly Machine Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Poly Machine Operator jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Poly Machine Operator jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Poly Machine Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Poly Machine Operator job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,764 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Junior Irrigation Technician

Green Valley, AZ โ€ข On-site

Conserva Irrigation
Personal Servicesย โ€ขย 11 - 50 employees

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Company parties
  • Free uniforms
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development

Pay: $18.00-$20.00 per hour, depending on experience
Job Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday
Start Time: 7:00 AM
About Us
Conserva Irrigation is a locally owned irrigation company specializing in irrigation system installation, maintenance, repair, and water-efficient system upgrades for residential and commercial properties. We take pride in quality workmanship, reliable service, and building long-term relationships with our customers.
We are looking for a dependable, hardworking, and motivated Junior Irrigation Technician with 1-3 years of hands-on irrigation experience to join our growing team.
Job Summary
The Junior Irrigation Technician will assist with irrigation installations, repairs, maintenance, and system upgrades. The ideal candidate should have a basic understanding of irrigation systems, previous hands-on field experience, and some experience working on new irrigation system installations.
Candidates must be comfortable performing physical outdoor work and have experience safely operating equipment such as trenching machines, jackhammers, and other power and hand tools used for irrigation installation.
This is a great opportunity for someone with basic irrigation experience who wants to continue developing their skills and grow into a more advanced Irrigation Technician role.
Responsibilities
  • Assist with residential and commercial irrigation system installations
  • Assist with trenching, pipe installation, backfilling, and jobsite cleanup
  • Install PVC and poly pipe, fittings, valves, sprinkler heads, and drip irrigation components
  • Assist with installing new sprinkler and drip irrigation systems
  • Perform basic irrigation repairs and maintenance
  • Assist with locating and repairing irrigation leaks
  • Replace or repair sprinkler heads, drip emitters, valves, and other irrigation components
  • Safely operate trenchers/trenching machines
  • Safely operate jackhammers and other power equipment
  • Use common irrigation and construction tools, including shovels, picks, drills, saws, pipe cutters, and hand tools
  • Assist experienced technicians with troubleshooting irrigation system problems
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe jobsite
  • Properly care for company tools, equipment, and vehicles
  • Follow company safety procedures and jobsite requirements
  • Work effectively with technicians and other team members

Qualifications
  • 1-3 years of irrigation, landscaping, or related field experience preferred
  • Basic knowledge of irrigation systems and components
  • Some hands-on experience with new irrigation system installations
  • Experience operating a trencher or trenching machine
  • Experience operating a jackhammer
  • Comfortable using power tools and hand tools
  • Basic understanding of PVC pipe, poly pipe, fittings, valves, sprinkler heads, and drip irrigation
  • Ability to follow instructions and work effectively as part of a team
  • Dependable, punctual, and willing to learn
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, including Arizona heat
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work, including digging, bending, kneeling, and lifting
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
  • Must maintain a professional attitude when working around customers and their properties

Preferred Experience
Experience in any of the following is a plus:
  • New irrigation system installation
  • Trenching and pipe installation
  • PVC and poly pipe repair
  • Sprinkler system repair
  • Drip irrigation installation and repair
  • Irrigation valves and valve boxes
  • Irrigation controllers
  • Landscape irrigation
  • Residential or commercial irrigation systems

Compensation
$18.00-$20.00 per hour, based on irrigation experience, equipment operating experience, and overall qualifications.
Career Growth
This position is ideal for someone who already has basic irrigation knowledge and hands-on experience but wants to continue developing their skills.
The right candidate will have the opportunity to gain additional experience in:
  • Irrigation troubleshooting and diagnostics
  • Advanced irrigation repairs
  • System upgrades
  • Smart irrigation controllers
  • Water-efficient irrigation practices
  • New system installation
  • Customer service and field operations

As your skills and experience grow, there may be opportunities to advance into a more independent Irrigation Technician role with increased responsibilities.
What We're Looking For
We want someone who is reliable, hardworking, teachable, and comfortable working with their hands. You don't need to be an irrigation expert, but you should come into the position with basic irrigation knowledge, some new installation experience, and the ability to safely operate trenching and construction equipment.
If you have 1-3 years of irrigation experience, know how to operate a trencher and jackhammer, and are looking for an opportunity to grow your irrigation career, we encourage you to apply.
Compensation: $18.00 per hour
Conserva Irrigation is constantly looking to add the best irrigation and sprinkler repair professionals to our team. We have open job positions all over the country for irrigation sales, field technicians, as well as office and administrative team members.
This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go directly to the franchisee, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this franchisee. All inquiries about employment at this franchisee should be made directly to the franchise location, and not to Conserva Irrigation Corporate.