Lead Extrusion Operator

Job Description:

The Lead Extrusion Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining sheet extrusion machines to produce high-quality products according to specifications. This role ensures consistent production output, monitors equipment performance, and performs quality checks throughout the shift.

Essential Functions:

Leadership & Oversight

• Assign tasks to assistant operators to ensure workflow efficiency

• Provide guidance and training to new assistant operators

• Act as the first point of escalation for technical, process and safety issues

• Track productivity for the team

• Monitor blending of materials

• Fill in for Shift Supervisor as needed

Machine Setup & Operation

• Set up extrusion lines according to production orders and specifications

• Operate extrusion machines safely and efficiently

• Adjust machine settings to maintain product quality and minimize waste

Quality Control

• Monitor product dimensions, appearance, and physical properties

• Perform regular quality checks and document results

• Identify and correct defects or inconsistencies in the product

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of equipment

• Troubleshoot and resolve minor mechanical issues

• Report major equipment malfunctions to maintenance team

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain accurate production records, including material usage and downtime

• Complete shift reports and communicate with incoming/outgoing operators

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all safety protocols and wear required PPE

• Ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations

• Coach assistant operators and other employees on working safely at all times

Required Qualifications and Education :

• High School diploma or GED

• 2+ years operating an extruder, ideally sheet and/or film extrusion operations

• Must be able to read, write and speak in English to follow work order instructions, record process data and communicate with all levels from operators to management

• Previous experience in a manufacturing environment

• Basic math skills to calculate and enter roll data on appropriate forms, material weight, read work instructions, monitors, etc.

• Must be able to work and lead in a team environment

• Must be able to learn troubleshooting machines, operation of controls, etc.

• Sufficient visual acuity to read instructions, operate machines, and visually inspect rolls produced for defects

• Possess good mechanical aptitude and safety awareness/attitude

• Must follow safety protocols, procedures, and wear PPE as required and lead by example throughout the department

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 12 hours per shift)

• Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, and reaching to operate and maintain extrusion equipment

• Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 lbs on a regular basis

• Perform repetitive hand and arm movements for machine adjustments and material handling

• Good visual acuity and manual dexterity for reading gauges, monitoring controls, and inspecting product quality

• Comfortable working in a factory environment with heat, noise, and moving machinery

• Ability to wear and properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear

• Must be able to climb stairs or ladders and work at various heights as needed

• Tolerance for standing and performing tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing setting

The initial schedule for this position will be Monday-Friday 8:00AM-4:30PM. It will eventually evolve to be 5:00AM-5:15PM Monday-Wednesday or Monday-Thursday once production is fully up and running.

Compensation Information:

$25-$30/hour

ITW is an equal opportunity employer. We value our colleagues' unique perspectives, experiences and ideas and create workplaces where everyone can develop their careers and perform to their full potential.

As an equal employment opportunity employer, ITW is committed to equal employment opportunity and fair treatment for employees, beginning with the hiring process and continuing through all aspects of the employment relationship.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected Veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.