Industrial Grinder Operator - Safety-Focused Production

Plastic Recycling, Inc.; Indianapolis, Northern (IN, KY); Hybrid; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Plastic Recycling, Inc. is seeking a Machine Operator to operate and maintain grinding equipment, ensuring safe and efficient material processing in a manufacturing setting. You will support plant operations and follow safety, environmental, and quality guidelines.

Responsibilities include setting up machines, monitoring output, performing preventive maintenance, and keeping accurate production records. The role requires reading work orders and following instructions, with forklift certification

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Experience operating industrial equipment or machinery preferred.
• Experience in manufacturing, recycling, plastics, or heavy industrial environments is a plus.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.
• Ability to read work orders and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Forklift certification (or ability to obtain).

Responsibilities

• Operate industrial grinding equipment to process raw materials, scrap, or finished goods as required.
• Set up machines for proper material size reduction and adjust controls as needed to meet specifications.
• Monitor equipment performance and product output to ensure quality standards are met.
• Perform routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and cleaning of grinding machinery.
• Identify and report mechanical issues or abnormalities to maintenance or supervision promptly.
• Maintain accurate production records, including material processed, downtime, and output quantities.
• Follow all safety policies, including lockout/tagout procedures and proper use of PPE.
• Keep work area clean, organized, and free of hazards.
• Assist with material handling, staging, and loading/unloading as needed.
• Works effectively as part of a team and contributes to a positive, collaborative work environment.
• Contributes positively to team goals and outcomes.
• Support other production areas when required.

Skills

Reading work orders

Mechanical aptitude

Safety-focused

Team player

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Forklift certification

Job description

Plastic Recycling, Inc. is seeking a Machine Operator to operate and maintain grinding equipment, ensuring safe and efficient material processing in a manufacturing setting. You will support plant operations and follow safety, environmental, and quality guidelines.

Responsibilities include setting up machines, monitoring output, performing preventive maintenance, and keeping accurate production records. The role requires reading work orders and following instructions, with forklift certification