Extrusion Technician

Extrusion TechnicianExtrusion Technicians help design, operate, control, and troubleshoot extrusion processes central to the business activities of the company. The primary duty of an Extrusion Technicians is to optimize the specialized processes and keep them on track, even if problems arise. The Extrusion Technician position is both a hands-on and supportive role in Manufacturing Operations, and ensures equipment is set up and operating properly in manufacturing. Extrusion Technicians have strong experience with plastic extrusion machinery and will provide training and technical assistance to extrusion Line Operators. Extrusion Technicians will "hit the ground running" and will be able to easily grasp technical problems, troubleshoot and quickly arrive at and implement solutions. Extrusion Technicians are responsible for start-up of multiple extrusion lines and for ensuring the equipment is shut down, cleaned, maintained, and stored properly. Extrusion Technicians will have a combination of advanced technical experience, interpersonal skills, can solve practical problems and have working knowledge of a variety of plastic materials. Extrusion Technicians work with Line Operators, Quality, Engineers, and Management to resolve issues. Extrusion Technicians participate in continuous improvement activities including support of new product design, process development, equipment validations and process validations. Monitor safety and maintenance needs on the floor, reporting major problems and fixing minor ones.Essential FunctionsSet-up, operate, assist, and maintain extrusion equipment to extrude thermoplastic materials to form tubes, rods, and profiles according to specifications and to meet output goalsInstalls dies, mandrels, machine screws and sizing rings using hand tools.Performs first part inspection as well as in process checks for multiple lines.Troubleshoot, repair, and performs maintenance on extrusion equipmentEnsure materials necessary for extrusions are dried to specifications and according to the manufacturing schedule. Mixes, blends, or colors raw materials as requiredRead job specifications to determine machine adjustments and material requirementsAdjust settings and controls to ensure extrusion is within defined processing standardsPerform troubleshooting of plastics extrusion machineryRecord all data into data collection systemPackage and label finished products per specificationComplete all assigned housekeeping, cleaning/preventative maintenance tasksProgram MicroVu to inspect partsWriting Non-Conformances in database and taking part in MRB ReviewSet-up/ repair and run tooling in machine shopEnsure the cleanliness of the plant is maintained by the manufacturing team members.Set-up Laser Linc System of Laser Micrometer and Ultrasonic Wall System.Monitor the use of PPE for manufacturing area.CompetenciesKnowledgeable about processes of screw and tool design, material characteristics, temperature control, automated feedback loops and ancillary downstream equipmentAptitude for math and ability to calculate production amounts, ratios, and percentagesDemonstrate and promote teamwork on a consistent basisAbility to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule formAbility to read and follow documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.Communication proficiency, written and oralWorks within an ISO 9001 environment and promotes 6S principlesAbility to work within a team environment and to accept supervision and guidanceAbility to train Line Operators in new extrusion processesExcellent organizational and housekeeping skillsComputer knowledge, Office 365, ERP, Custom AP programs for data collectionSelf-starter with the ability to work alone and take instructionsPreferred Education and Experience:Minimum of 10+ years of extrusion experience with basic understanding of process engineering practices. Polymer processing vocational or technical education or certification in addition to prior work experience a plusHigh School Diploma / GED is requiredUnderstands interrelating functions of the extruder and ancillary equipment such as pullers, cutters, pumps etc.Ability to verify quality such as color, width, thicknessAbility to work in a fast-paced and demanding manufacturing environmentFamiliarity with manufacturing safety and ergonomics.Able to operate independently with minimal supervisionMust be dependable, and will work collaboratively within a team and possess a positive attitudeSupervisory ResponsibilityThis position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.Work EnvironmentThis job operates in a Manufacturing environment. This role routinely uses standard machining equipment such as Lathes, Milling Machines, Files, Grinders, and computers. A large portion of the work will be performed in the plant where the noise may be loud.Physical DemandsThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The employee is required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Job requires sitting for long periods of time, walking, using fingers, hands, and arms to lift, reach, push and pull. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 55 pounds. Able to wear gloves, hair covers, lab coats and safety glasses in a clean room environmentPosition Type and Expected Hours of WorkThis is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Alternate 4-10 hour shifts are available 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. as approved by Manager.