Extrusion Operator

Extrusion Operator Kreate Fletcher, North Carolina, United States About this position About Melds MELDS LLC is a growing plastics recycling and extrusion company focused on producing high-quality post-industrial recycled polypropylene for injection molding applications. As part of our continued expansion and modernization, we are investing in advanced recycling technologies, process improvements, and team development to support long-term growth. Our team is committed to safety, quality, innovation, and operational excellence. We take pride in creating sustainable materials that help reduce waste while delivering reliable products to our customers. About the role MELDS LLC is seeking an experienced Extrusion Technician to support our manufacturing operations and help drive production efficiency. This role is responsible for operating, troubleshooting, and optimizing extrusion lines to maximize throughput, minimize waste, and maintain consistent product quality. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, solutions-oriented, and experienced in plastics processing. This position plays a key role in achieving production goals while supporting our transition to a more advanced, high-efficiency manufacturing operation. What you’ll do Operate and monitor extrusion lines to meet daily production targets and performance goals. Adjust machine settings, including temperature profiles, screw speeds, and feed rates, to optimize processing conditions. Troubleshoot production issues, including strand breakage, inconsistent pellet quality, material flow disruptions, and feeding challenges. Maintain consistent heat profiles across all extrusion zones to ensure optimal material performance and product quality. Work closely with pelletizer operators to maintain proper strand flow and pellet cutting performance. Perform equipment startup, shutdown, material changeovers, and production transitions. Monitor and reduce scrap, purge material, and unplanned downtime. Ensure proper material handling procedures for boxes, bags, regrind, and blended materials. Follow all company safety procedures, including PPE requirements, lockout/tagout practices, and equipment guarding standards. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment. Collaborate effectively with production supervisors, maintenance personnel, and quality teams to resolve issues and improve performance. Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, and operational efficiency. Qualifications 2 or more years of extrusion experience preferred; plastics extrusion experience strongly preferred. Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. Understanding of extrusion processing conditions, including heat profiles, screw speeds, and material flow. Ability to identify and resolve production issues while maintaining quality standards. Ability to work in a fast-paced, production-driven manufacturing environment. Strong attention to detail and commitment to workplace safety. Effective communication and teamwork skills. Ability to work flexible schedules, including overtime and weekends when required. Preferred Qualifications Experience processing recycled plastic materials. Forklift certification or prior forklift operating experience. Experience with polypropylene materials and pelletizing systems. Knowledge of process optimization and waste reduction techniques. Previous experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment. Schedule 1st Shift: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM 2nd Shift: Monday–Friday, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM 3rd Shift: Monday–Friday, 12:00 AM – 8:00 AM Schedule may vary based on production needs. Occasional overtime and weekend work may be required. Why MELDS? Join a rapidly growing and modernizing manufacturing operation. Work with advanced recycling technologies and extrusion equipment. Build valuable technical skills in a growing industry focused on sustainability. Advance into higher-level technical, supervisory, or leadership roles. Be part of a team-oriented culture focused on safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Company Details Location: 282 Cane Creek Road, Fletcher, NC 28732 Company Details: Melds is an equal opportunity employer. The Statements used herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by an employee in this position and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the Company. The pay range for this role is: 20-20 USD per hour (Asheville) #J-18808-Ljbffr