Plastics Machine Operator
Tasks & duties
Plastics machine operators may do some or all of the following:
-
start up and shut down the machinery
-
check for defects in the products
-
fix basic mechanical and process problems
-
conduct basic quality control tests
-
pack the product
-
weigh the product
-
transport the product within the manufacturing site
Skills & knowledge
Plastics machine operators need to have:
-
knowledge of the machines they are working on
-
knowledge of production processes and packaging methods
-
understanding of product standards and safety regulations
-
practical and problem-solving skills
-
communication and people skills
-
basic maths skills
Entry requirements
There are no specific requirements to become a plastics machine operator, but three years of secondary education is recommended, and School Certificate or NCEA equivalent may be required by some employers.
Training on the job
Plastics machine operators can complete unit standards that lead to the National Certificate in Plastics Processing Technology or National Certificate in Materials Processing. For further information contact the Plastics and Materials Industry Training Organisation (PaMPITO).
Useful Experience
Useful experience for plastics machine operators includes:
-
work in the plastics or rubber industry
-
work in other factory jobs, particularly shift work
Related courses
Plastics Processing Technology
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
Document Actions