Plastics Packaging Molding Line Operator

Pretium Packaging; Hazleton (Luzerne County); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Pretium Packaging is seeking a mechanically inclined Technician Operator to join our fast-paced manufacturing floor. You will start up lines, verify setpoints, and run multiple packaging and printing systems to meet quality targets.

You’ll inspect, document, and adjust processes, sustain equipment with basic maintenance, and support training for fellow operators. This is an on-site position requiring attention to safety and efficiency.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; mechanical aptitude and technical training preferred.
• 1–3 years operating packaging/plastics machinery with quality targets.
• Basic math skills including fractions, percentages, ratios.
• Basic to intermediate computer skills; exposure to CNC machines.

Responsibilities

• Start up and verify machine setpoints match specifications.
• Operate extrusion blow molding, extrusion, injection molding, lining, labeling, pad printing, and silk-screen systems.
• Conduct in-process inspections and verify samples meet specifications.
• Respond to line problems and adjust machines; escalate repairs as needed.
• Document issues, root causes, and fixes; record production data.
• Assist with end-of-run procedures and housekeeping; train Operator Technicians.
• Handle other related duties and special projects.

Skills

Basic literacy

Math proficiency

Problem solving

Tech aptitude

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CNC machines

Job description

Bring your mechanical know-how to a fast-paced manufacturing floor. If you enjoy running multiple machines, dialing in setpoints, and keeping quality front and center, this role is for you.

What you’ll do

• Start up and verify: Power up lines and confirm all machine setpoints match specifications
• Run equipment: Operate extrusion blow molding, extrusion, injection molding, injection blow molding, lining, labeling, pad printing, and silk-screen systems
• Maintain performance: Clean filters, perform minor maintenance, monitor purges, and keep machines in optimal condition
• Use the right components: Check sleeves, cartons, labels, and materials against part numbers before and during runs
• Hold the line on quality: Conduct in-process inspections and verify samples meet specifications
• Fix fast: Respond to line problems, adjust machines, and elevate repairs to your supervisor as needed
• Restart confidently: Bring equipment back online after maintenance
• Own the paperwork: Document issues, root causes, and fixes; record production and quality data (manual or via data collector)
• Close it out: Properly complete end-of-run procedures and documentation
• Lead by example: Keep your work area clean; follow and reinforce all safety and housekeeping policies
• Support the team: Help train Technician Operators and provide break/lunch relief
• Pitch in: Handle other related duties and special projects

Also may include

• Box making, packing, and/or testing products
• Applying labels to finished goods

What you bring Education

High school diploma or equivalent, plus mechanical aptitude and technical training focused on packaging, plastics, and printing equipment.

Experience

1–3 years operating packaging/plastics machinery with proven ability to meet output and quality targets.

Core capabilities

• Language: Basic reading, writing, and speaking proficiency
• Math: Comfortable with arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry; able to calculate fractions, percentages, ratios, proportions, variables, and formulas
• Reasoning: Solve practical problems involving several concrete variables; interpret written, oral, diagram, or schedule instructions
• Tech: Basic to intermediate computer skills; exposure to CNC machines

Tools & machines you’ll handle

• Mechanic’s tools, calipers, gauges, and weight scales
• Extrusion blow mold, extrusion, injection mold, injection blow mold
• Lining, labeling, pad printing, silk-screen equipment

Physical requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, moving, talking, hearing, pushing, carrying, reaching, and grasping
• Normal mental/visual attention with manual coordination; periods of concentrated attention
• Vision: clarity at 20 inches or less and 20 feet or more; sharp focus; depth/space judgment; color differentiation
• Strength: light to medium work—exert up to 50 pounds of force continuously and up to 50 pounds frequently

Environment & PPE

Work near moving mechanical parts with exposure to noise, dust, high temperatures, heat from machinery, hot water, hot plastic, and heater bands. Required PPE may include hair net, safety glasses, earplugs, and gloves.