Machine Operator

About the role

A Plastic Manufacturing Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery used to shape, extrude, or mold plastic materials into finished components. They monitor production parameters, perform quality checks, and troubleshoot mechanical issues to ensure consistent output and minimal material waste. The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and performing basic setup of manufacturing equipment used to produce plastic and medical device components. The operator ensures products are manufactured safely, efficiently, and consistently in accordance with approved work instructions, production schedules, quality requirements, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The role is responsible for maintaining product quality, production efficiency, equipment cleanliness, and complete production traceability.

Key responsibilities:

• Configure machine parameters including temperature, pressure, speed, and cycle times
• Load raw materials such as plastic resins, colorants, and chemical additives into feeders
• Monitor equipment continuously to ensure smooth, efficient, and uninterrupted production cycles
• Perform process changeovers by swapping molds, dies, or inserts for new production runs
• Inspect finished components visually for defects, flash, warping, or surface inconsistencies
• Measure part dimensions using micrometers, calipers, or gauges to match engineering blueprints
• Troubleshoot processing issues like machine malfunctions, component defects, or material flow clogs
• Perform routine maintenance including cleaning machinery, purging barrels, and lubricating moving parts
• Maintain production logs detailing total output, downtime, material usage, and machine settings
• Follow safety protocols precisely, including the correct use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Key requirements:

• High school diploma or vocational or technical certificate in plastics technology or manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is an advantage
• Mechanical aptitude and experience working with injection molding, blow molding machines, extrusion, assembly, or packaging equipment is an advantage
• Blueprint reading skills to accurately interpret technical engineering drawings and specifications
• Troubleshooting capabilities to quickly identify process deviations and correct machine parameters
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods over 8- to 12-hour factory shift schedules
• Lifting capacity to safely handle tools, molds, or material bags weighing up to 20 kg
• Manual dexterity for handling small plastic components, hand tools, and precision measurement instruments
• Attention to detail, good communication skills, and ability to work as a team player
• Willingness to learn and ability to work under minimum supervision
• Ability to use measuring equipment such as vernier calipers, micrometers, go/no-go gauges, and pin gauges