Production Operator (1st Shift)

Plastic Recycling, Inc.; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Plastic Recycling, Inc. in Kentucky is seeking a Plant Operator to safely operate, monitor, and maintain production equipment, ensuring efficient processing and adherence to quality and safety standards.

You will manage material flow, perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and keep accurate production records while working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in manufacturing, recycling, or industrial operations preferred.
• Ability to operate forklifts or willingness to become certified.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate processing equipment (grinders, conveyors, shredders) per SOP.
• Monitor material flow and equipment performance for quality.
• Adjust machine settings to meet specs and minimize downtime.
• Perform routine inspections, cleaning, and basic preventative maintenance.
• Identify and report mechanical or operational issues.
• Maintain accurate production records (throughput, downtime, tracking).
• Follow safety policies including lockout/tagout and PPE.
• Keep work areas clean and organized for safety.
• Assist with material handling, staging, and movement.
• Collaborate with team to meet daily goals.

Skills

Forklift operation

Mechanical aptitude

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Description

Position Summary

The Plant Operator is responsible for safely operating, monitoring, and maintaining production equipment to ensure efficient processing of materials while meeting company quality and safety standards. This role supports daily plant operations, maintains production flow, and contributes to a clean, organized, and high-performing work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate processing equipment such as grinders, conveyors, shredders, and auxiliary systems in accordance with standard operating procedures
• Monitor material flow and equipment performance to ensure consistent production and product quality
• Adjust machine settings as needed to meet production specifications and minimize downtime
• Perform routine inspections, cleaning, and basic preventative maintenance on equipment
• Identify, troubleshoot, and report mechanical or operational issues to maintenance or supervision
• Maintain accurate production records including throughput, downtime, and material tracking
• Follow all safety policies and procedures, including lockout/tagout and proper use of PPE
• Keep work areas clean and organized to support safe and efficient operations
• Assist with material handling, staging, and movement throughout the plant
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet daily production goals

Requirements

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Previous experience in manufacturing, recycling, or industrial operations preferred
• Ability to operate forklifts or willingness to become certified
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot basic equipment issues
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and remain active for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with noise, dust, and varying temperatures

Work Environment

• Industrial manufacturing setting
• Exposure to moving machinery and heavy equipment
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times