Manufacturing Technician

Rubbercraft is seeking an Extrusion Operator I to support the production of high-quality rubber extrusions used in aerospace and other critical applications. This position is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring rubber extrusion equipment while ensuring products meet customer specifications and company quality standards. The Extrusion Operator I follows established manufacturing procedures, maintains accurate production documentation, and works safely in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

The Extrusion Operator I receives initial instructions, equipment requirements, and guidance from a supervisor or lead. Once trained, routine production activities are performed independently, with completed work reviewed for quality, accuracy, and compliance with company standards.

About Rubbercraft : Rubbercraft (RCC) is a trusted leader in engineered elastomer solutions serving aerospace, defense, and industrial markets. Our team designs and manufactures precision-molded seals, gaskets, and custom rubber components that perform in the most demanding environments. We take pride in craftsmanship, collaboration, and a culture built on innovation and reliability.

Job Accountabilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor rubber extrusion equipment to produce material that meets production schedules and quality requirements.
• Load raw rubber compounds into extrusion equipment and maintain continuous material flow throughout the production process.
• Prepare rubber compounds by warming, conditioning, and handling material according to established work instructions.
• Monitor extrusion process parameters including temperature, pressure, speed, and material flow to ensure consistent product quality.
• Perform machine start-ups, shutdowns, product changeovers, and basic equipment adjustments.
• Conduct visual and dimensional inspections using measuring instruments such as calipers, gauges, and other inspection tools to verify product compliance.
• Identify product defects and make process adjustments or notify supervision as appropriate.
• Complete production documentation including travelers, work orders, production logs, quality records, and material traceability documentation accurately and timely.
• Assist in troubleshooting equipment, tooling, and process issues to minimize downtime and reduce scrap.
• Perform routine cleaning, preventive maintenance, and general care of extrusion equipment.
• Safely move raw materials, finished products, and tooling using appropriate material handling equipment when required.
• Follow all company safety policies, quality standards, work instructions, and customer requirements.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area using 5S and good housekeeping practices.
• Work collaboratively with Production, Maintenance, Quality, Engineering, and other departments to meet operational goals.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to improve safety, quality, efficiency, and productivity.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• 0-2 years of manufacturing experience; rubber, plastics, extrusion, or similar manufacturing experience is a plus.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow written work instructions, routers, and production documentation.
• Basic math skills, including measurements, decimals, and fractions.
• Ability to use measuring equipment such as calipers, rulers, and gauges.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to safely operate production equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality products.
• Ability to work independently after training while contributing effectively within a team environment.
• Willingness to work overtime and weekends as business needs require.

Preferred

• Experience operating rubber extrusion or similar manufacturing equipment.
• Experience working in an ISO, AS9100, or other regulated manufacturing environment.
• Forklift or pallet jack experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot basic equipment or process issues.
• Ability to prioritize work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Dependable with excellent attendance and punctuality.
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to workplace safety.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull up to 35 pounds; occasionally up to 50 pounds with assistance.
• Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, kneeling, and repetitive hand movements.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery, rubber compounds, noise, heat, and industrial chemicals while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to distinguish colors and identify product defects through visual inspection.

Benefits:

At Rubbercraft, we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work.

RCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to complete the application process may contact Human Resources.

This position requires access to information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a "U.S. person" as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15), which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, as required by U.S. export control laws.
M-F: 5 AM - 1:30 PM