Machine Operator – Plastics Recycling

We are currently looking to recruit an Machine Operator to join our clients plastics recycling facility. This is a hands-on production role suited to an experienced operator with a strong background in plastics recycling, extrusion and compounding. The successful candidate will be responsible for independently operating the production line and converting recycled plastic materials into consistent, high-quality plastic granules. You will take ownership of the production process, from line start-up and material preparation through to extrusion, pelletising, quality control and shutdown, while ensuring production targets, quality standards and Health & Safety requirements are consistently met. However, we are also keen to speak to candidates without experience who are willing to learn and have a proactive and positive attitude towards work.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, operate and monitor plastics recycling compounding and extrusion lines.
• Process recycled plastic materials into finished plastic granules/pellets.
• Safely and efficiently start up and shut down production lines.
• Monitor machine performance and adjust processing parameters to maintain product quality and production efficiency.
• Carry out machine changeovers, screen changes and routine cleaning.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping across the production area.
• Follow all company Health & Safety procedures, policies and operating standards.
• Report maintenance issues promptly and assist with planned maintenance activities where required.
• Identify opportunities to reduce waste, improve efficiency and maximise production output.
• Carry out any other reasonable duties required to support the wider production operation. Essential Experience & Skills
• Previous experience within the plastics recycling industry is ideal.
• Proven experience producing recycled plastic granules/pellets from PP, PE, HDPE and/or LDPE.
• Good understanding of extrusion, compounding and pelletising processes.
• Understanding of Health & Safety requirements within a manufacturing, plastics or recycling environment.
• Reliable, hardworking and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• A flexible approach to working shifts and overtime when required. Desirable Experience
• Experience operating single-screw or twin-screw extrusion lines.
• Forklift licence.
• Mechanical aptitude and basic maintenance skills.
• Experience working with recycled PP, HDPE and LDPE materials.
• Previous experience within a plastics compounding or pelletising environment. The Person We are looking for a reliable, hands-on and technically capable Machine Operator who understands the importance of process control and product quality. You will be someone who can take ownership of a production line, identify issues before they become problems and make the necessary adjustments to maintain consistent output and quality. A strong work ethic, attention to detail and commitment to Health & Safety are essential. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced plastics recycling operator to join a growing operation and play an important role in producing high-quality recycled plastic materials. Shift: 4 on 3 off – 12 hour shifts either (Apply online only) or (Apply online only) Please send a cv to (email address removed) or call (phone number removed) quoting reference M9703. Tags Machine Operator, Production Operator, Process Operator, Extrusion Operator, Extruder Operator, Plastics Operator, Plastics Recycling, Plastic Recycling, Recycling Operative, Recycling Operator, Plastics Manufacturing, Plastic Manufacturing, Extrusion, Plastic Extrusion, Polymer Extrusion, Compounding, Plastics Compounding, Polymer Compounding, Pelletising, Pelletizing, Granulation, Plastic Granules, Plastic Pellets, Recycled Plastics, Recycled Polymer, PP, Polypropylene, PE, Polyethylene, HDPE, High Density Polyethylene, LDPE, Low Density Polyethylene, Single Screw Extrusion, Twin Screw Extrusion, Extrusion Line, Production Line, Manufacturing Operator, Machine Minder, Machine Setter, Machine Operative, Plant Operator, Process Technician, Production Technician, Recycling Plant, Plastics Processing, Polymer Processing, Material Processing, Process Manufacturing, Continuous Production, Production Machinery, Industrial Machinery, Machine Setup, Machine Changeovers, Screen Changes, Quality Control, Process Control, Production Targets, Preventative Maintenance, Basic Maintenance, Mechanical Aptitude, Manufacturing, Production, Factory Operative, Factory Operator, Shift Operator, Shift Work, 12 Hour Shifts, Health and Safety, Forklift, FLT