Lead Extrusion Operator

Lead Extrusion Operator

Westborough, Massachusetts, United States

About the Job

Are you a technical expert who thrives on the production floor rather than behind a desk? We are seeking a Lead Extrusion Operator to lead our extrusion line. This isn't just a "clipboard and whistle" role—you are the heartbeat of the shift, blending high-level personnel management with high-precision machine operation.

In this role, you will be the go-to technical resource, ensuring our extrusion processes run at peak efficiency while mentoring a dedicated team of operators. If you have "dirt under your fingernails" and a mind for process improvement, we want to hear from you.

What's In It For You?

• The Best of Both Worlds: Stay sharp on the tools while building your leadership resume.
• Direct Impact: You have the autonomy to troubleshoot on the fly and implement immediate process improvements.
• Stability & Growth: Work in a high-demand sector of manufacturing with a company that invests in the latest extrusion technology.
• Culture of Respect: Join a team where the leadership understands the complexities of the floor because they've been in your shoes.

Key Responsibilities

• Hands-on Operation: Setup, start up, and run extrusion lines (single/twin screw) alongside your team to meet daily production quotas.
• Technical Leadership: Troubleshoot complex processing issues (surging, melt fracture, gauge variations) and perform tooling changes or die cleans.
• Team Supervision: Manage shift scheduling, conduct daily huddles, and provide real-time coaching to junior operators.
• Quality Control: Perform regular gauge checks and visual inspections to ensure all products meet tight tolerances and ISO standards.
• Safety Stewardship: Enforce strict adherence to PPE, Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, and maintain a 5S-compliant workspace.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate production logs, downtime reports, and scrap tracking to identify trends and reduce waste.
• Preventative Maintenance: Perform basic mechanical repairs and coordinate with the maintenance department for major overhauls.

Skills & Qualifications

• Extrusion Expertise: Minimum 5+ years of experience in plastic or profile extrusion, with a deep understanding of resins, heat profiles, and screw speeds.
• Leadership Background: 2+ years in a lead or supervisory role within a manufacturing environment.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Proficient with hand tools, calipers, micrometers, and reading technical blueprints/schematics.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to diagnose root causes of material defects and adjust machinery parameters (RPM, Pressure, Temperature) accordingly.
• Communication: Strong verbal and written skills to bridge the gap between floor operations and upper management.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for long shifts, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in a high-temperature industrial environment.
• Technical Savvy: Experience with ERP/MRP systems for inventory tracking and basic proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Competitive Pay: Compensation is determined by candidate experience, education, certifications, and specific job-related skills. $26-$32/hr

Comprehensive Benefits: Includes premium health insurance (medical, dental, vision) and eligibility for an incentive recognition bonus program. Access to training and development to expand your technical certifications.

Apply Today! Ready to take the next step in your manufacturing career? Join a team that values technical expertise!

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.