Free machine operator job description template
Fill in the [brackets] and cut anything that doesn’t fit your job. Unlock one-tap copy and PDF download free with your email.
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Machine Operator (Metal and Plastic) job description template · Fill in the [brackets]
Machine Operator (Metal and Plastic)
About the job
[Business name] is hiring a Machine Operator (Metal and Plastic) who sets up and runs machines that cut, shape and form metal and plastic parts to specification. [One or two sentences about your business and why someone would want to work there.]
What you’ll do
- Set up and adjust machines according to blueprints
- Monitor machine status to ensure proper functioning
- Insert material into machines, manually or with material handling equipment
- Operate stock removal metalworking machines, such as lathes and mills
- Adjust machine settings for temperature, cycle times and speed and feed rates
- Remove finished products and document output
- Measure, test and inspect finished workpieces according to blueprints
What you need
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Machine operating experience [or willingness to train]
- Ability to read basic blueprints and use measuring tools
- Able to stand and lift [weight]
Nice to have
- CNC experience
- Certification
How to apply
[Apply link, email or phone], by [date].
[Business name] is an equal opportunity employer.
✓ Unlocked. Use the buttons above the template to copy it or save it as a PDF.
Example: the template filled in for a small business
Hypothetical example for Mid-State Plastics, a 25-person molding plant.
Mid-State Plastics is hiring a Machine Operator for injection molding (first shift, Monday to Friday). You'll set up, run and inspect parts. We train on our machines; basic math and measuring skills are required.
Notice what makes it work: real hours, the actual tools, who they report to, and one honest reason to want the job. That’s the difference between a blank template and a job description that gets the right applicants.
What a machine operator does
A machine operator sets up and runs machines that cut, shape and form metal and plastic parts to specification. Typical duties include:
- Set up and adjust machines according to blueprints
- Monitor machine status to ensure proper functioning
- Insert material into machines, manually or with material handling equipment
- Operate stock removal metalworking machines, such as lathes and mills
- Adjust machine settings for temperature, cycle times and speed and feed rates
- Remove finished products and document output
Duties adapted from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Requirements, training and licenses
The Bureau of Labor Statistics says certification is optional but can show competence and help with advancement, and training is typically about a year on the job.
Training: Moderate-term on-the-job training, about one year.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook: Metal and Plastic Machine Workers.
How much does a machine operator make?
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook. A median means half earned more and half earned less. Pay in your area may be higher or lower; check postings for similar jobs near you. A growing number of states and cities require a pay range in job postings, so check your local rules before you post.
Before you set the rate, run the free hiring cost calculator. It adds payroll taxes and other costs and shows how much work the hire needs to bring in to pay for itself.
Free template or written for you?
| Free template | Job Description $30 | Hiring Kit $299 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written for | Any business | Your business | Your business |
| Duties and schedule | Typical, with blanks | Yours, filled in | Yours, filled in |
| Pay | National figure | Set for your local market | Set for your local market |
| State rules | “Check your state” | Checked for your state | Checked for your state |
| Ready to post | No, you edit it | Yes | Yes, plus the job posting |
| Performance review form | — | Included free | Included |
| Interview guide and 30-60-90 day plan | — | — | Included |
| Use the template | Have us write it | Get the Hiring Kit |
Free template
- Typical duties with blanks to fill in
- National pay figure
- You edit it before posting
Job Description · $30
- Written for your business: your duties, schedule and pay
- Checked for your state’s rules
- Ready to post
- Free matching performance review form
Hiring Kit · $299
- Everything in the $30 job description
- The job posting
- Interview guide
- 30-60-90 day plan for the new hire
Fixed prices. See what’s included in Job Description Writing and the Hiring Kit.
Common questions
What shift rules should I state?
Say the shift, overtime expectations and any rotating schedule up front. State and federal overtime rules apply, so check with your state labor department.
Can I use this template for free?
Yes. Copy it, edit it and post it. It's a starting point written for any business, so fill in the brackets and adjust the duties to your actual job. If you'd rather have it written for your business, ready to post, our Job Description service is $30.
Is this legal advice?
No. This page is general information. Requirements for some roles, especially in healthcare, vary by state. Check your state's rules, and talk to an employment attorney if you're unsure.
Published by Groundwork Business Advisory. Updated October 2026. General information, not legal advice. Pay data: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, May 2025 wage estimates.