Operator- 1st Shift

Posted Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 5:00 AM

Are you a forward-thinking leader passionate about optimizing supply chain operations? PTA Plastics, an employee-owned and innovative leader in the plastic injection molding, contract manufacturing and tool-building industry, is looking for an Operator- 1st Shift (6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) 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.

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.

Pay: $17.94/hr- $24.50/hr

• 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.

• 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.

• 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)

To conform to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), applicants for employment at PTA Plastics must be a U.S. citizen or national, lawfully admitted for permanent residence into the U.S. (i.e., current green card holder), or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § .