Plastic Turning Machine Operator in Tennessee Career Overview
As a Plastic Turning Machine Operator, you play a vital role in the manufacturing process of plastic components. Your responsibilities are essential to ensuring that products meet specified design and quality standards. Here are key aspects of your role:
Machine Operation: You are responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring plastic turning machines. Your expertise ensures that machinery runs efficiently and produces components to precise specifications.
Product Quality: You inspect finished pieces for defects, ensuring that they adhere to quality control guidelines. Your attention to detail helps maintain the integrity of the products being manufactured, which is fundamental to customer satisfaction.
Production Efficiency: By optimizing machine performance and throughput, you contribute to the overall productivity of the manufacturing operation. Your ability to identify and resolve issues can significantly impact the production timeline.
Safety Compliance: You follow safety protocols to maintain a safe working environment, reducing the risk of workplace accidents and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
Collaboration: You often work closely with engineers and other manufacturing staff to discuss project specifications and production improvements. Your input can help in the development of new processes or products.
The role of a Plastic Turning Machine Operator is foundational to the plastic manufacturing industry, supporting a wide range of applications from consumer products to industrial components. Your work enables the continuous production and supply of plastic goods that are essential in everyday life and various industrial sectors.
Plastic Turning Machine Operator Salary in Tennessee
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Plastic Turning Machine Operator in Tennessee
To become a Plastic Turning Machine Operator in Tennessee, you typically need specific educational qualifications and training. Here are the recommended programs:
Plastics and Polymer Engineering Technology
- Focuses on the properties, processing, and applications of plastics. This program covers both the theoretical and practical aspects of working with polymer materials.
Machine Shop Technology
- Provides training in fundamental machining practices. You will learn how to operate various machine tools and understand manufacturing processes.
Machine Tool Technology
- Emphasizes the operation and maintenance of machine tools used in the manufacturing of components. This program often includes hands-on training with various types of machinery.
Precision Metal Working
- Covers techniques for producing high-precision components. Training includes working with machinery to create detailed metal parts often used in conjunction with plastic components.
Precision Production
- Focuses on the skills needed for efficient production processes. This program teaches students about production techniques and quality control within machining environments.
In addition to these degree programs, you may also benefit from on-the-job training or internships that provide practical experience with plastic turning machines and related equipment.
Best Schools to become a Plastic Turning Machine Operator in Tennessee 2024
Ivy Tech Community College
NTMA Training Centers of Southern California
Owensboro Community and Technical College
Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology
Central Community College
Amarillo College
- Set up, operate, or tend lathe and turning machines to turn, bore, thread, form, or face metal or plastic materials, such as wire, rod, or bar stock.
Plastic Turning Machine Operator Required Skills and Competencies in Tennessee
Technical Proficiency: You need to be adept at operating plastic turning machines, including understanding machine controls, settings, and programming.
Attention to Detail: Precision is vital in this role, requiring you to closely monitor specifications and tolerances during the production process.
Troubleshooting Skills: You should be able to identify and resolve mechanical issues promptly to minimize downtime and maintain production efficiency.
Quality Control: You must be skilled in inspecting finished products and assessing them against quality standards to ensure they meet specifications.
Mathematical Ability: A solid grasp of basic math is necessary for measurements, calculations, and understanding dimensions and tolerances.
Safety Awareness: You must prioritize safety by adhering to operational safety protocols and understanding the proper handling of machinery and materials.
Physical Stamina: This position often requires standing for extended periods and lifting heavy materials. Physical endurance is important for maintaining productivity.
Communication Skills: You should effectively communicate with team members and supervisors, sharing information about machine performance and production issues.
Time Management: Being able to manage your time efficiently is essential to meet production deadlines and optimize workflow.
Adaptability: You need to quickly adapt to new technologies and processes as manufacturing techniques evolve.
Team Collaboration: Working effectively as part of a team is important, requiring you to coordinate with others in production and maintenance roles.
Job Duties for Plastic Turning Machine Operators
Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances.
Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.
Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines.
Industrial control software
- Autodesk HSMWorks
- Computer numerical control CNC editor software
Inventory management software
- Inventory tracking software
Object or component oriented development software
- G-code
- M-code
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Plastic Turning Machine Operator in Tennessee
The job market for Plastic Turning Machine Operators in Tennessee reflects a steady demand, bolstered by the state's manufacturing sector. You can expect to find various opportunities across the following aspects:
Demand: As industries increasingly rely on precision plastic components, the need for skilled operators is growing. This trend is particularly evident in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and medical devices that frequently use plastic parts.
Growth Potential: The overall growth for manufacturing jobs, including those for Plastic Turning Machine Operators, is anticipated to rise in the coming years. Technological advancements and an emphasis on efficiency may lead to the development of new processes, creating additional demand for skilled operators who can adapt to evolving machinery and techniques.
Geographical Hotspots: Key areas in Tennessee where job opportunities for Plastic Turning Machine Operators are concentrated include:
- Nashville: Known for its expanding industrial base, Nashville hosts several manufacturing companies that require operators for their production lines.
- Memphis: This city serves as a logistics and manufacturing hub, providing ample job openings within the plastic manufacturing sector.
- Knoxville: With a mix of established manufacturers and emerging businesses, Knoxville offers opportunities for professionals seeking to enter the field.
- Chattanooga: Increasingly becoming a center for manufacturing innovation, Chattanooga presents a growing market for skilled operators.
Networking within the manufacturing community and keeping abreast of local industry developments can enhance your job search efforts. Engaging with job boards, industry associations, and local workforce development organizations may also provide insight into available positions and upcoming job fairs.
Top Related Careers to Plastic Turning Machine Operator 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Plastic Turning Machine Operator in Tennessee
National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS)
Explore the NIMS website for standards, certifications, and training programs specific to the metalworking and machining industries.
NIMS WebsiteAmerican Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
A great source for professional development resources, journals, and industry news related to mechanical engineering and manufacturing, which includes machining techniques.
ASME WebsiteSociety of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)
Provides education, training, and resources specifically targeted toward manufacturing professionals, including machining technologies.
SME WebsitePlastics Industry Association
This association offers resources related to the plastics industry, including networking opportunities, events, and industry news.
Plastics Industry Association WebsiteTechnical Education and Career Center (TECC)
Research locally available vocational programs related to machine operation and manufacturing technology. Check their offerings specific to plastics and machining.
TECC WebsiteTennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development
Helpful for labor market information, job training programs, and educational resources available in Tennessee.
Tennessee Department of Labor WebsiteO*NET Online
This resource provides detailed job descriptions, skills, and educational requirements for plastic turning machine operators and other closely related occupations.
O*NET WebsiteManufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP)
A network of centers designed to support small manufacturers in improving productivity, quality, and technological advancement.
MEP WebsiteYouTube Channels
- NYC CNC: Offers video tutorials on machining, including tips on operating lathes and turning machines.
NYC CNC YouTube Channel - This Old Tony: Provides engaging content about machining and workshop practices.
This Old Tony YouTube Channel
- NYC CNC: Offers video tutorials on machining, including tips on operating lathes and turning machines.
Utilize these resources to enhance your skills, stay updated on industry trends, and connect with fellow professionals in your field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Plastic Turning Machine Operator in Tennessee
What does a Plastic Turning Machine Operator do?
A Plastic Turning Machine Operator sets up and operates machines that mold plastic material into specific shapes and sizes. This role involves monitoring the machine's operation, ensuring quality control of the finished product, and performing basic maintenance.What are the typical working conditions for this role?
You will primarily work in a manufacturing environment. This may involve standing for long periods, working with machinery that requires focus and attention, and following safety protocols to handle potentially hazardous materials.What skills are necessary to become a Plastic Turning Machine Operator?
Key skills include technical knowledge of machinery, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and mechanical aptitude. Good communication and teamwork skills are also beneficial, as you will often work as part of a production team.What educational qualifications are required?
Most positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. While on-the-job training is common, some employers may prefer candidates with postsecondary education in machining or a related field.Is prior experience necessary?
While some employers may hire entry-level operators and provide training, relevant experience or technical training can enhance your employability and opportunities for advancement.What safety precautions should I be aware of?
As a Plastic Turning Machine Operator, you will need to follow safety protocols such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), adhering to machine safety guidelines, and being aware of your surroundings to prevent accidents.What is the job outlook for Plastic Turning Machine Operators in Tennessee?
The job outlook generally aligns with trends in the manufacturing sector. Demand for skilled machine operators continues to be steady, particularly in industries that rely on plastic production.What is the potential salary for this position?
Salaries for Plastic Turning Machine Operators in Tennessee can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer. Generally, the average salary ranges from $30,000 to $45,000 per year, with potential for overtime pay.What are the opportunities for advancement in this career?
With experience and additional training, you may advance to supervisory roles, become a lead operator, or transition into maintenance or quality control positions. Continuing education and certifications can further enhance career advancement prospects.Are there any professional organizations for Plastic Turning Machine Operators?
Yes, organizations like the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) and the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) provide resources, networking opportunities, and certifications for professionals in the field.How can I find job openings as a Plastic Turning Machine Operator?
Job openings can be found through online job boards, company websites, local classifieds, and industry-specific job fairs. Networking with other professionals and joining relevant associations can also help you discover job opportunities.