Extrusion Machine Operator

Extrusion Machine Operator This role operates and maintains plastic extrusion machinery in a high-volume production environment. You set up, run, and troubleshoot extrusion lines, support related molding operations, and ensure safe, efficient, and continuous production while maintaining a clean and organized work area. Responsibilities Operate with a strong safety mindset at all times, following all safety procedures and guidelines. Set up, operate, and maintain plastic extrusion machinery according to production orders, trials, and sample requirements. Maintain continuous machine operations by following production directions and quickly addressing issues to minimize downtime. Monitor process conditions, equipment performance, and control systems, including software used to run extrusion lines. Move materials, finished products, and equipment using a forklift in a safe and efficient manner. Perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on machines, tools, and related equipment to keep lines running smoothly. Maintain overall cleanliness and organization of the extrusion equipment and surrounding production area. Obtain required materials, components, and supplies before and during production runs and prior to changeovers. Notify appropriate personnel when material, component, or spare part inventories are low or require replenishment. Use respirators as required and follow all related safety and hygiene protocols. Lift and move boxes, compounds, and other materials up to 50 lbs continuously throughout the shift. Support general production activities, including basic manual labor tasks related to construction, landscaping-type work, and other physical duties as needed. Assist with blow molding and injection molding processes as needed to support overall production. Perform other related duties as assigned to support safe, efficient, and high-quality production. Essential Skills Demonstrated experience with plastic extrusion operations. Experience with injection molding processes. Experience with blow molding processes. Ability to safely operate extrusion machines and related production equipment. Ability to safely operate a forklift to move materials and equipment. Comfort working in a physically demanding role that requires continuous lifting of up to 50 lbs. Ability to use a respirator in accordance with safety requirements. Strong safety mindset and commitment to following all safety procedures. Ability to work effectively in production environments that involve manual labor, lifting, and repetitive tasks. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience in general production, manufacturing, or similar environments. Experience in construction, landscaping, or other manual labor roles that involve physical work. Familiarity with compounding and handling plastic materials. Comfort working with injection molding machines and blow molding equipment. Ability to work on 1st, 2nd, or 3rd shift, depending on production needs. Willingness to perform both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance tasks on machines and tools. Why Work Here? Employees benefit from a comprehensive total rewards package that supports long-term financial security and work-life balance. The organization offers competitive pay, an incentive bonus plan, and robust benefits including medical, dental, vision, company-paid life insurance, and short- and long-term disability coverage, along with flexible spending accounts and a strong 401(k) matching program. Team members enjoy generous paid time off and holiday programs, annual raises, and performance-based bonuses tied to days of pay. There is significant opportunity to increase earnings through overtime, and the facility fosters a close-knit culture with a stable workforce and multiple shifts that support flexibility. Work Environment The role is based in a busy manufacturing facility with approximately 100 employees, including about 50 in production across three shifts. The work environment is dirty and can be hot during the summer months. Respirator use is required for roughly half of the time on the job, and the position involves continuous lifting of up to 50 lbs. You will work with extrusion machines and related molding equipment in an industrial setting that emphasizes safety, reliability, and teamwork. The facility operates 1st, 2nd, and 3rd shifts, offering around-the-clock production and frequent opportunities for overtime. Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of Hamilton, NJ. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $50000.00 - $70000.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.