Plastics Processing Machine Operators

As a Plastics Processing Machine Operator, you’ll be responsible for operating and managing sophisticated machinery that transforms raw materials into finished products through various processes. You’ll work with a variety of materials, including thermoplastics, thermosets, and elastomers, understanding their properties and how they behave under different processing conditions.

Your role may include duties as follows:

  1. Set up and operate polymer processing machines (e.g., extruders, injection moulding machines, compounders).
  2. Monitor and adjust machine parameters to ensure proper product dimensions and quality.
  3. Perform regular quality checks on produced items.
  4. Troubleshoot and resolve issues with machinery or product quality.
  5. Control melting, mixing, and forming processes for various polymer products.

This role puts you at the heart of creating plastic products that shape our daily lives. From extrusion and injection moulding to compounding and recycling, you’ll bring innovative designs to life while supporting sustainability in the plastics industry.

Vocational Education Training Options

An apprenticeship with a manufacturer is the best way to gain employment as a Plastics Processing Machine Operator Machinist. You can undertake the following qualification as an apprenticeship:

  • Certificate II in Polymer Processing (PMB20121)
  • Certificate III in Polymer Processing (PMB30121)

Salary Expectations

Median salary is $59,800

This wage reflects VET qualification with typical experience in the field and excludes apprentice rates. 
 
Source: Salary information based on job advertisement data from Your Career and Jobs and Skills Australia.  Data from 2023 ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours for this role is unavailable.