Machine Operator - Plastics Recycling

WasteRecruit Ltd; Peterborough; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

WasteRecruit Ltd is recruiting on behalf of a plastics recycling facility for a Machine Operator. The role involves hands-on production, operating the line from start-up to shutdown, converting recycled plastics into high-quality granules, and ensuring safety and quality standards are met.

We welcome experienced operators and motivated learners. The position follows a 4 on, 3 off, 12-hour shift pattern and requires a proactive approach to maintenance and process control.

Qualifications

• Experience in plastics recycling environment is preferred.
• Experience producing recycled plastic granules/pellets from PP/PE/HDPE/LDPE is desirable.
• Solid understanding of extrusion, compounding, and pelletising processes.
• Knowledge of health & safety requirements in manufacturing/recycling sectors.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate and monitor plastics recycling lines.
• Process recycled plastics into finished granules/pellets.
• Start up and shut down production lines safely and efficiently.
• Monitor machine performance and adjust parameters for quality and efficiency.
• Perform machine changeovers, screen changes and routine cleaning.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping in the production area.
• Follow all health & safety procedures and operating standards.
• Report maintenance issues and assist with planned maintenance.
• Identify opportunities to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
• Carry out other duties to support the production operation.

Skills

Plastic recycling experience

Extrusion & compounding understanding

Health & Safety awareness

Independent worker

Tools

Forklift licence

Job description

We are currently looking to recruit an Machine Operator to join our clients plastics recycling facility. This is a hands-on production role suited to an experienced operator with a strong background in plastics recycling, extrusion and compounding. The successful candidate will be responsible for independently operating the production line and converting recycled plastic materials into consistent, high-quality plastic granules. You will take ownership of the production process, from line start-up and material preparation through to extrusion, pelletising, quality control and shutdown, while ensuring production targets, quality standards and Health & Safety requirements are consistently met. However, we are also keen to speak to candidates without experience who are willing to learn and have a proactive and positive attitude towards work.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, operate and monitor plastics recycling compounding and extrusion lines.
• Process recycled plastic materials into finished plastic granules/pellets.
• Safely and efficiently start up and shut down production lines.
• Monitor machine performance and adjust processing parameters to maintain product quality and production efficiency.
• Carry out machine changeovers, screen changes and routine cleaning.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping across the production area.
• Follow all company Health & Safety procedures, policies and operating standards.
• Report maintenance issues promptly and assist with planned maintenance activities where required.
• Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve efficiency and maximise production output.
• Carry out any other reasonable duties required to support the wider production operation.

Essential Experience & Skills

• Previous experience within the plastics recycling industry is ideal.
• Proven experience producing recycled plastic granules/pellets from PP, PE, HDPE and/or LDPE.
• Good understanding of extrusion, compounding and pelletising processes.
• Understanding of Health & Safety requirements within a manufacturing, plastics or recycling environment.
• Reliable, hardworking and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• A flexible approach to working shifts and overtime when required.

Desirable Experience

• Experience operating single-screw or twin-screw extrusion lines.
• Forklift licence.
• Mechanical aptitude and basic maintenance skills.
• Experience working with recycled PP, HDPE and LDPE materials.
• Previous experience within a plastics compounding or pelletising environment.

The Person

We are looking for a reliable, hands-on and technically capable Machine Operator who understands the importance of process control and product quality. You will be someone who can take ownership of a production line, identify issues before they become problems and make the necessary adjustments to maintain consistent output and quality. A strong work ethic, attention to detail and commitment to Health & Safety are essential. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced plastics recycling operator to join a growing operation and play an important role in producing high-quality recycled plastic materials.

Shift: 4 on 3 off - 12 hour shifts