Extruder Operator

Job Title: Extruder Operator

Job Description

This role operates and monitors extrusion lines to produce high-quality film products in a clean, well-organized manufacturing environment. You will set up, run, and adjust extrusion equipment, perform quality checks, and document production data while following strict safety and quality standards on rotating 12-hour shifts.

Responsibilities

• Operate the extrusion line and all related operational functions, including machine set-up, adjustment of films and resins, use of color concentrates and additives, and control of production speeds for both input and output.

• Perform start-up and shutdown procedures for the extrusion line, including changeovers, managing down times, die and screw tear down, screen pack changes, and use of line-specific tools while following proper lockout/tagout procedures.

• Maintain extruded product to required specifications for gauge, length, width, bond strength, color, dyne level, and surface finish, and identify any surface defects in a timely manner.

• Perform and document all required quality control tests, including double-check and data collection procedures currently in place, to ensure consistent product quality.

• Transfer production and quality data accurately into the daily production log book and all relevant quality control documents or forms used in the production process.

• Follow the production schedule and all related documentation, including special instructions, to ensure customer orders are produced accurately and on time.

• Communicate any line malfunctions or process issues promptly to minimize production downtime and support efficient problem resolution.

• Maintain a clean and orderly work area and warehouse by following housekeeping standards throughout the shift.

• Maintain a safe working environment by following all company safety policies and procedures and reporting unsafe conditions, near-misses, and incidents.

• Uphold company quality standards by consistently following established processes and contributing to continuous improvement efforts.

• Complete a written tape measure test at the office as part of the hiring and qualification process.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support production, quality, and operational goals.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent, or 1–2 years of relevant experience, or a forklift certification.

• Experience in machine operation, particularly in extrusion, production, or general labor within a manufacturing environment.

• Ability to read and interpret production tickets and related production documentation.

• Ability to work at an accelerated pace while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

• Ability to perform basic math calculations and measure accurately using a measuring tape or other instruments.

• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with supervisors, coworkers, and support teams.

• Basic computer literacy to enter production and quality data into logs, forms, and systems.

• Dedication to continuous improvement, including willingness to learn new processes and adopt best practices.

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and to bend, stretch, or stand for extended periods of time during 12-hour shifts.

• Willingness and ability to complete and pass a written tape measure test conducted on-site.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Prior experience operating extrusion lines or similar plastic processing equipment.

• Familiarity with films, resins, color concentrates, and additives used in extrusion processes.

• Knowledge of lockout/tagout procedures and safe machine operation practices.

• Comfort working with production schedules and meeting customer order requirements.

• Experience recording production and quality data in log books, forms, or digital systems.

• Strong problem-solving skills to identify and respond to line malfunctions or quality issues.

• Forklift certification, if not already possessed, is beneficial for material handling responsibilities.

Why Work Here?

You will join a workplace that values safety, quality, and continuous improvement in a clean, organized manufacturing environment. The company promotes equal opportunity and fair consideration for all candidates, fostering an inclusive culture where diverse backgrounds and perspectives are respected. You will benefit from structured training, stable shift schedules, and the opportunity to build and grow your skills in machine operation and production within a supportive team setting.

Work Environment

The work environment is a clean, well-lit manufacturing facility focused on safety, quality, and efficiency. The role follows rotating 12-hour shifts, with all new team members training on a 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday schedule for the first two weeks, then moving into night shifts from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. on designated shifts. You will work on and around extrusion lines and related production equipment, using measuring instruments, line-specific tools, and computer systems for data entry. The position requires standing for extended periods, regular lifting up to 50 pounds, and frequent bending and stretching while maintaining a neat and orderly work area in accordance with safety and housekeeping standards.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Rapids, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $21.50/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision

• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital

• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available

• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)

• Short and long-term disability

• Health Spending Account (HSA)

• Transportation benefits

• Employee Assistance Program

• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Grand Rapids,MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 22, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.