Operator - CO - 3rd Shift

Kids for the Future; Niwot (CO); On-site; USD 23,419 - 33,062; Full time

Job summary

PTA Plastics is hiring an Operator 1 to join our team in Niwot, CO. You will operate plastic injection molding machines, inspect parts for quality, and package products for shipping. A strong eye for detail and the ability to follow English work instructions are essential.

As an employee-owned company serving Fortune 500 OEMs, we emphasize safety, quality, and collaboration across molding, QA, and engineering teams. High school diploma required; related experience a plus.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience operating plastic injection molding machines or similar equipment is a plus.
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to understand work instructions in English.

Responsibilities

• Operate plastic injection molding machines according to established procedures and guidelines.
• Observe machine operation to detect work defects or machine malfunctions.
• Inspect finished products for quality based on the quality plan and report defects.
• Monitor and control the production process to maintain output and minimize waste.
• Record operational data, including scrap, in the Job Book.
• Perform secondary operations as needed (assembly, trimming, milling, pad printing).
• Package products according to work instructions and maintain a clean, safe workplace.
• Communicate with Molding, QA, and Engineering to ensure objectives are met.

Skills

Attention to detail

English communication

Safety awareness

Mechanical aptitude

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Injection molding equipment

Job description

• Location 7350 Dry Creek Parkway,Niwot, CO, 80503,United States
• Base Pay $17.94 - $24.50 / Hour
• Employee Type FT Non-Exempt
• Required Degree High school
• Manage Others No

Company Overview:

PTA Plastics, an employee-owned and innovative leader in the plastic injection molding, contract manufacturing and tool-building industry, is looking for an Operator 1 to join our dynamic team.

At PTA Plastics, we’re more than just a manufacturer; we partner with Fortune 500 OEMs in the medical device, defense, homeland security, and technology sectors, constantly pushing the boundaries of product development and manufacturing excellence. As an employee-owned company, every team member has a stake in our success, creating a collaborative and entrepreneurial environment where innovation thrives.

Job Summary:

As an Operator at PTA Plastics, you will perform the necessary tasks of manufacturing an injection-molded part. Your primary focus will be on collecting freshly produced parts, ensuring parts measure up to visible quality standards, and placing parts in boxes for shipping.

• Operate plastic injection molding machines according to established procedures and guidelines.
• Observe machine operation to detect work defects or machine malfunctions.
• Inspect finished products for quality based on the quality plan, identifying any defects or abnormalities such as cracks, splay, sink, drag lines, blemishes, color variations, etc.
• Understand and follow work instructions and quality plans to produce parts that meet specified requirements.
• Monitor and control the production process to maintain consistent output and minimize waste.
• Record operational data, including scrap, in the Job Book.
• Perform secondary operations as needed, such as assembly, trimming, milling, pad printing, etc.
• Package products at the press according to work instructions.
• Maintain a clean and safe workplace.
• Communicate with Molding, Q.A., and Engineering personnel to ensure objectives are met.
• Follow safety protocols to maintain a safe working environment.
• Adhere to company policies, procedures, and quality standards to meet customer requirements and expectations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Duties:

Qualifications & Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience operating plastic injection molding machines or similar manufacturing equipment is a plus.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to understand work instructions and quality plans in English to produce parts that meet specified requirements.
• Strong communication skills, including English reading, writing, and speaking skills, to understand work instructions and effectively communicate with team members and supervisors.
• Flexibility to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing production demands.
• Commitment to following safety protocols and maintaining a safe work environment.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand, walk, and move around the production floor for extended periods.

Capable of lifting and carrying heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for handling small tools, machine components, and molds.

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.

Comfortable wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection.

Occasional bending, kneeling, and reaching to access equipment and perform maintenance tasks.

Good vision and color perception for inspecting parts and identifying any defects or abnormalities.

Ability to work in temperature-controlled environments and withstand exposure to noise levels associated with manufacturing machinery.

Ability to receive, comprehend and utilize required training from OSHA and Company including but not limited to the following:

First Aid and CPR (optional)

Equal Employment Opportunity & ADA Compliance Statement:

PTA Plastics is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, PTA Plastics will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations in the hiring process and in the workplace.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process or to perform essential job functions, please contact [e-mail]

Pursuant to the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act (CADA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) , PTA Plastics does not discriminate against individuals with disabilities in any aspect of employment, including hiring, job assignments, promotions, compensation, benefits, training, discipline, and termination.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Employees may be required to perform other duties as assigned.