Extrusion Operator

Extrusion Operator Location: Houston, TX Position Type: Full-Time Position C.E. Shepard Company is seeking an experienced Extrusion Operator with hands-on experience operating single-screw and twin-screw extrusion lines in a plastics manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will be responsible for machine setup, operation, troubleshooting, quality control, and maintaining production efficiency while ensuring all safety and quality standards are met. Essential Duties & Responsibilities include: Set up, operate, and monitor single-screw and twin-screw extrusion equipment. Adjust machine parameters including temperature zones, screw speeds, pressures, feed rates, and cooling systems. Start up and shut down extrusion lines according to company procedures. Monitor product quality throughout production runs and make process adjustments as necessary. Troubleshoot extrusion process issues to minimize downtime and material waste. Perform product inspections using calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other measuring devices. Maintain accurate production records, quality checks, and machine logs. Blend and load raw materials according to production specifications. Coordinate material changes, color changes, and product changeovers. Work closely with Quality Control and Production Supervisors to ensure specifications are met. Perform routine equipment inspections and preventative maintenance tasks. Identify mechanical or process issues and communicate with maintenance personnel. Follow all OSHA, safety, housekeeping, and manufacturing procedures. Assist with packaging and staging of finished products as needed. Qualifications include: 5+ years of extrusion operating experience preferred. Experience operating single-screw and/or twin-screw extruders required. Experience in plastics manufacturing, compounding, pipe, sheet, film, pelletizing, profile, or tubing extrusion preferred. Strong understanding of extrusion processes and material flow characteristics. Ability to read production specifications, work orders, and quality requirements. Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities. Strong math and measurement skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Preferred Experience includes: Plastic resin processing. Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), PVC, HDPE, LDPE, or engineered plastics. Extrusion compounding operations. Quality inspection and process control. Forklift certification or experience. Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement practices. Physical Requirements include: Ability to stand for extended periods. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with moving machinery and varying temperatures. Ability to wear required PPE. Skills Needed include: Single-Screw Extrusion Twin-Screw Extrusion Process Optimization Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis Quality Control Machine Setup & Changeovers Preventive Maintenance Production Documentation Safety Compliance Teamwork & Communication Temp to Perm position 40+ hours a week Start working on 1st shift 7am-3pm Mon-Fri, once trained will be moved to 3rd shift 11pm-7am and would be considered 3rd shift lead with increase. Lunches: 8 hrs-30 min paid 10 hrs-45 min paid