Plastics Products Manufacturing Workers

Most plastics industry workers work 40 hours per week, but some shifts may last 12 hours. Because plants operate on three shifts, entry-level workers may work nights and move to day shifts as they gain experience and seniority.

Plastics plants are generally safe, well lighted and ventilated, and modern. Workers must observe safety precautions when working around hot machines and plastics, sharp machine parts, and electrical wiring, and when sawing, cutting, or drilling plastics parts. Plastics work, however, is not usually strenuous. Workers use machines to lift heavy dies and other equipment. Lifting equipment and materials takes some strength, and workers who operate machines stand much of the time.

As with most production work, jobs in the plastics industry often demand a fair amount of repetition. Workers who need great variety in their jobs may not enjoy production work. Plastics plants tend to be smaller than many other types of factories so a sense of teamwork often develops among the production workers. Such camaraderie can lead to increased job satisfaction and enjoyment.