Extrusion Manufacturing Technician (2nd Shift)

Manufacturing Technician - ExtrusionRubbercraft is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Technician - Extrusion to support the production of high-quality rubber extrusions used in aerospace and other critical applications.The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience setting up, operating, adjusting, and troubleshooting extrusion equipment while maintaining strict production and quality standards. Prior experience in rubber extrusion manufacturing is highly preferred.This position requires mechanical aptitude, strong attention to detail, and an understanding of extrusion processes, material preparation, equipment operation, and dimensional quality control. The Manufacturing Technician 2 is expected to independently perform routine production assignments, troubleshoot common equipment and process issues, minimize material waste, and contribute to production goals.The technician will receive direction from a supervisor or lead regarding production priorities and specialized assignments but should be capable of performing standard extrusion operations with minimal supervision following appropriate training.About Rubbercraft: Rubbercraft is a leading manufacturer of precision-engineered elastomeric components and assemblies for the aerospace and defense industry. With decades of experience supporting mission-critical applications, Rubbercraft specializes in seals, gaskets, molded components, and other highly engineered solutions designed to perform in demanding environments.2nd Shift Position – Requires approximately 3 months of initial training on 1st Shift before transitioning to 2nd Shift.Work Schedule: 2nd Shift (2:30 PM - 11 PM PST). Candidates must be available to work 1st Shift (5:00 AM - 1:30 PM PST) for approximately 3 months of initial training before transitioning to their regular 2nd Shift schedule.Key ResponsibilitiesSet up, operate, and monitor rubber extrusion equipment to manufacture products according to customer specifications and quality requirements.Prepare, warm, mix, and process rubber compounds to ensure proper material consistency and flow.Work with various rubber compounds, including silicone, EPDM, neoprene, nitrile, and other elastomeric materials.Perform equipment start-ups, changeovers, shutdowns, and machine adjustments to maintain consistent production.Monitor and adjust extrusion parameters, including temperature, pressure, speed, and material feed, to maintain dimensional accuracy and product quality.Identify and troubleshoot common extrusion issues, including dimensional variations, material inconsistencies, surface defects, and equipment malfunctions.Perform visual and dimensional inspections using calipers and other measuring tools to verify compliance with engineering drawings and specifications.Read and interpret manufacturing work instructions, production routers, engineering drawings, and quality requirements.Maintain accurate production records, including material usage, batch traceability, work orders, and quality documentation.Identify opportunities to improve production efficiency, reduce scrap, and minimize equipment downtime.Perform routine equipment cleaning, inspections, and basic preventive maintenance.Safely handle raw materials, production tooling, and finished products.Follow established safety procedures, manufacturing processes, quality standards, and customer requirements.Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with housekeeping and 5S practices.Collaborate with supervisors, engineering, maintenance, quality, and other production personnel to resolve manufacturing issues.Assist in training less-experienced technicians on established extrusion processes and safe equipment operation as needed.Perform other duties as assigned.Minimum Qualifications – RequiredPrevious experience in a manufacturing, production, or machine operation environment.Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to learn equipment setup, operation, adjustments, and basic troubleshooting.Ability to follow manufacturing work instructions, engineering drawings, and product specifications.Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and commitment to safety and quality.Ability to work independently with minimal supervision following appropriate training.Preferred QualificationsHands-on experience in rubber extrusion manufacturing is highly preferred.Experience independently setting up, operating, adjusting, and troubleshooting extrusion equipment.Familiarity with rubber compounds such as silicone, EPDM, neoprene, and nitrile.Experience using calipers and other measuring tools to verify dimensional accuracy and product quality.Experience manufacturing products for aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated industries.Experience training or mentoring manufacturing technicians.Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is highly preferred.