Extrusion Operator

Description

Extrusion Operator

What is my day to day like?

As an Extrusion Operator, you play a critical role in supporting continuous manufacturing operations by safely operating, maintaining, and optimizing extrusion equipment to produce high-quality sheet products. This position ensures production efficiency, material accuracy, and compliance with safety, quality, and BRC standards.


The typical day-to-day of this position will include but is not limited to:

• Operate, monitor, and adjust extrusion lines and auxiliary equipment to maintain product specifications, centerline conditions, and production targets.
• Perform start-up, shutdown, and changeover activities, including disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly of extruder components, dies, and related systems.
• Continuously monitor sheet quality, perform measurements and testing (SPC, micing, oven testing), and take corrective action when needed.
• Troubleshoot extrusion, material flow, and equipment issues to minimize downtime and maintain product quality.
• Manage raw material systems including blenders, dryers, hoppers, and silos by setting ratios, calibrating equipment, and monitoring material usage.
• Support material handling processes by ensuring proper flow, cleanliness, and identification of raw materials, blends, and finished goods.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and perform preventative maintenance tasks in accordance with GMP and AIB standards.
• Operate and support auxiliary systems such as grinders, laminators, and scrap systems when applicable.
• Complete production reporting and system entries (e.g., downtime, material usage, and output) accurately and in real-time.
• Maintain a clean, organized work environment and perform housekeeping duties to prevent contamination.
• Identify, report, and escalate safety, quality, or mechanical issues promptly.
• Work in accordance with all company policies and procedures regarding safety, quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance.

What makes a person successful in this position?

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• 2+ years of experience in extrusion, manufacturing, or industrial operations preferred.
• Working knowledge of extrusion processes, material systems, and auxiliary equipment (blenders, dryers, grinders, etc.).
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot equipment and process issues.
• Understanding of SPC, product measurement, and quality control processes.
• Ability to read and interpret production work orders, specifications, and centerline documents.
• Experience working in GMP, food safety, or BRC-regulated environments preferred.
• Basic computer skills for production reporting and system use.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to follow SOPs and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to safely work with tools, machinery, and at heights when required.

What will my schedule be like?

This is a full-time position, working 12-hour shift. This role is fully onsite to support continuous manufacturing operations and requires flexibility to support production demands across shifts.