Thermoplastics Molding Line Operator

Pretium Packaging; Aurora (IL); On-site; USD 20,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Referral Bonus up to $3000

Benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Collaborative team environment

Job summary

Pretium Packaging is seeking a Machine Operator for our Aurora, IL plastics production floor. You will set up and run multiple molding lines, monitor performance, perform routine maintenance, and verify parts meet specifications through in-process checks.

You will document issues, assist in training, and provide relief coverage during breaks while maintaining a clean, safe work environment. Competitive salary and benefits offered.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Experience with plastic molding machines preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
• Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Start up production machines and verify set points.
• Operate extrusion blow mold, extrusion machine, injection blow mold, injection mold, label, pad printer, and silk-screen equipment.
• Perform minor maintenance and monitor conditions during purging.
• Document problems, root causes, and solutions; record production/quality data and close out runs.
• Assist in training Technician Operators and provide relief coverage for breaks and lunches.
• Keep area clean and safe; uphold safety and housekeeping standards.
• Troubleshoot line issues and adjust machines as needed.

Skills

Manual dexterity

Problem-solving

Communication

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Plastic molding machines

Packaging equipment

Printing equipment

Job description

About Pretium Packaging

Pretium Packaging designs and manufactures innovative packaging for a wide range of markets. We pair high-quality products with exceptional service, and we foster a collaborative environment where people are encouraged to improve, innovate, and build sustainable practices.

Role Overview

As a Machine Operator on our plastics production floor, you’ll shepherd each production run from start-up to close-out. You’ll set machines, monitor performance, complete routine maintenance, and verify that every part meets spec through in-process checks—all while keeping safety at the forefront.

A Day in the Life

You arrive to a clean, well-organized line and begin by verifying machine set points before starting up. You rotate between equipment—extrusion blow mold, extrusion machine, injection blow mold, injection mold, labeling systems, pad printers, and silk-screen units—keeping a close eye on performance. You clean filters, handle minor maintenance, and monitor conditions while purging. Throughout the run you capture weights on M.O. Weight and Process Check Sheets, pull samples to confirm they meet specifications, and fine-tune settings when you see an opportunity to improve quality. When repairs are needed, you alert your supervisor and restart equipment once maintenance is complete. You document issues, root causes, and fixes, record production and quality data (manual/data collector), and close out the run. Along the way, you verify sleeves, boxes, labels, and materials by part number, keep the area clear of debris, uphold housekeeping standards, support teammates by sharing techniques, and cover breaks and lunches. And when special projects arise, you jump in.

Core Responsibilities

• Work safely at all times, following company safety policies and practices.
• Start up production machines and periodically confirm set points are accurate.
• Operate extrusion blow mold, extrusion machine, injection blow mold, injection mold, label, pad printer, and silk-screen equipment.
• Keep machines running properly: clean filters, perform minor maintenance, and monitor conditions during purging.
• Verify correct sleeves, boxes, labels, and materials by part numbers for the active line.
• Maintain M.O. Weight and Process Check Sheets.
• Conduct in-process quality inspections; check samples to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Troubleshoot line issues and make proper machine adjustments.
• Notify supervisor when repairs or maintenance are needed and restart machines after work is completed.
• Document problems, root causes, and solutions; record production/quality data (manual/data collector) and close out runs.
• Keep the area clean and free of debris; uphold safety and housekeeping standards.
• Assist in training Technician Operators and collaborate to meet team goals.
• Provide relief coverage for breaks and lunches.
• Perform other related duties and special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience with plastic molding machines preferred.
• Solid grasp of plastics manufacturing processes and equipment.
• Mechanical aptitude; technical training with packaging, plastics, and printing equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
• Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective problem-solving abilities.
• Clear verbal and written communication skills.

Compensation & Benefits

• Full-Time, Direct Hire Position
• Competitive Salary
• Benefits
• Referral Bonus: up to $3000
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Collaborative environment with a diverse, supportive team

Starting pay for this position is $18/hr and shift differential pay

“Responsible for food safety, food quality and site safety.”