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Entry Level Extrusion Operator Jobs in Columbia, SC

... entry level, mid-level, and highly skilled level positions. Salary: (Based on experience ... Previous experience in manufacturing, plastic extrusion, fiber optic cables or electronics

... entry level, mid-level, and highly skilled level positions. Salary: (Based on experience ... Previous experience in manufacturing, plastic extrusion, fiber optic cables or electronics

Entry Level Extrusion Operator information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$11

$16

$20

How much do entry level extrusion operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level extrusion operator in Columbia, SC is $16.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.47 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is extrusion operator easy?

Extrusion operators typically perform repetitive tasks involving operating machinery and monitoring production processes, which can be straightforward with proper training. However, the job requires attention to safety protocols, understanding machine functions, and sometimes working in noisy or fast-paced environments, making it moderately challenging for beginners.

What is an extrusion operator's salary?

The average salary for an entry-level extrusion operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $45,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications or experience in specific machinery may earn higher wages, and some positions offer shift differentials or overtime pay.

Is extrusion operator a skilled job?

An entry-level extrusion operator is generally considered a semi-skilled position that requires training on specific machinery and safety procedures. Basic mechanical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions are important, but extensive prior experience is usually not necessary. On-the-job training is common to develop the necessary skills for operating extrusion equipment safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Entry Level Extrusion Operator vs Entry Level Machine Operator?

AspectEntry Level Extrusion OperatorEntry Level Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, basic technical skills
Work EnvironmentPlastic or metal extrusion lines, manufacturing plantsVarious manufacturing settings, machinery operation
Industry UsagePlastic, rubber, or metal extrusion industriesMultiple manufacturing sectors
Job FocusOperating extrusion machinery, quality checksOperating various machinery, ensuring production flow

Entry Level Extrusion Operators and Entry Level Machine Operators both work in manufacturing environments, often requiring similar skills and certifications. However, extrusion operators specialize in operating extrusion machinery for plastics or metals, while machine operators may handle a broader range of equipment. Both roles are essential for production lines and typically require on-the-job training.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry level extrusion operator roles typically do not pay $4,000 a week; such high wages are usually associated with specialized trades, management positions, or roles requiring significant experience or certifications. High-paying jobs without a degree often involve skilled labor, sales, or entrepreneurial work, but they generally require specific skills or training beyond entry level.
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Extrusion Operator jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Extrusion Operator jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Entry Level Extrusion Operator jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Entry Level Extrusion Operator job openings:
Production Line Operator

Production Line Operator

Prysmian Group

Lexington, SC • On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Prysmian is the world leader in solutions for energy and digital connections, developing resilient, high-performing, sustainable, and innovative cable systems for the transmission, power grid, electricity and digital solutions. From underground and submarine cables and systems for power transmission and distribution, to medium low voltage cables for the construction and infrastructure sectors, we keep the lights on. We also produce a comprehensive range of optical fibers, copper cables and connectivity for voice, video, and data transmission connecting the world.
With 9,000 dedicated team members in North America and 35,000 globally, Prysmian brings unmatched scale, innovation, and expertise to the energy and telecommunications industries.
At Prysmian, your work matters. Wherever you're based and whatever you do, you'll have the opportunity to make an impact as part of a global team committed to excellence and transforming the world around us.
About the Position:
We, at Prysmian, consider all our operators to be the top craftsmen of fiber optic and cable manufacturing. The operation of our machines requires a range of skills and abilities that necessitate an attention to detail, the ability to learn detailed procedures, and patience. The positions that Prysmian is looking to fill include a need of different skill levels that are categorized as: entry level, mid-level, and highly skilled level positions.
Salary: (Based on experience & department)
Starting range: $17 to $21
Shifts:
  • 12 hour 2-2-3 Schedule: 7:30AM - 7:30PM
  • 12 hour 2-2-3 Schedule: 7:30PM - 7:30AM

What does Prysmian Lexington Offer?
  • Growth Opportunities & Wage Progressions
  • Structured Training Programs
  • Annual Gainshare Bonus
  • Annual PPE Stipends
  • 13 paid holidays a year
  • Comprehensive Benefit Package
  • Dental, Vision, and Health Insurance
  • 401K with up to 6% company match
  • Discounted Employee Stock Purchase Programs
  • Paid Parental Leave Benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • And more!

Essential Production Operator Responsibilities:
  • The operator reviews all details of design; Pulls orders and raw materials for production. Paying attention to the details of specific colors, fiber sizes, lengths and group numbers
  • Sets up assigned process per Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). Set up includes loading and unloading fiber bobbins and fiber spools.
  • Performs break-down process of ribbon and dye components. Cleans components with approved chemicals including isopropyl alcohol, and acetone and follows all safety procedures and utilizes proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Documents daily production reports.
  • Completes quality check points as listed on the SOP to ensure that process is running appropriately and reducing any needs for rework, or scrap.
  • Loads, unloads, and, with the use of approved tools (including power-operated reel lift), moves reels to appropriate locations in accordance with operations workflows.
  • Sets up the jacketing process per the SOP ensuring safety precautions are taken and ensures that quality product is being produced.
  • Maintains a clean and safe work environment. Identifies any potential safety hazards to Team Lead, or HSE Manager to promote the "Zero and Beyond" safety goal/initiative.
  • Completes all operator Preventative Maintenance (PM) duties on a daily basis.
  • Loads, and unloads fiber ribbon reels to string up unitize process lines.
  • Monitors the unitize process for any potential quality defects and documents all required data within the SAP database system.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Basic mathematic skills-adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing, and basic percentages
  • Basic computer utilization skills
  • Must achieve required hours of On-the-Job Training, peer training and pass a certification test within probationary time-period
  • Ability to learn and comprehend written instructions (daily operations tasks, and hazardous materials handling)
  • Ability to utilize hand tools in compliance with all safety guidelines
  • Able to work 12-hour shifts, weekends, and holidays (2-2-3 schedule)
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills
  • Tactful and professional manner
  • Ability to reflect and uphold company mission, vision, and values in daily conduct

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Previous experience in manufacturing, plastic extrusion, fiber optic cables or electronics
  • Experience working with Continuous Improvement (CI), or Lean processes
  • Lean or CI certifications
  • Previous SAP or ERP experience
  • Forklift experience / certifications

Job Offer Fraud Alert
We take the security of our candidates seriously. Please be aware of job offer scams involving individuals falsely claiming to represent our company.
Our company will **never**:
  • Ask for payment, fees, or financial information at any stage of the recruitment process
  • Request passwords, banking details, or copies of personal identification via email or text
  • Extend a job offer without a formal interview process
  • Communicate from non-company email addresses (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo)

All legitimate communications from our recruitment team will come from an official company email domain (ending in @prysmian.com).
If you believe you have been contacted regarding a fraudulent job offer or are unsure about the authenticity of a message, please contact us directly at narecruiting@prysmian.com.
Prysmian, as an Equal Opportunity Employer, aims to attract and recruit individuals with diverse backgrounds, skills, and abilities. We strongly believe that diversity brings significant value at all levels of the organization, increasing the possibility of capturing market opportunities and maximizing value for our customers and stakeholders. With Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) as part of our Social Ambition 2030 and a strategic pillar of our Company culture, Prysmian is committed to the development of an organization that prioritizes talent, where people feel respected, included, and free to fully express their potential just as they are.
All Managers and HRs in Prysmian are responsible for ensuring DE&I policies are respected during the recruiting process, as well as recognizing and mitigating unconscious biases that must not influence our selection processes. All persons will be considered for employment without regard to their race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, origin, citizenship status, socio-economic status, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, military service or veteran status, pregnancy, parental leave, medical conditions, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. Prysmian will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation for any disclosed physical or neurological condition or disability of a qualified applicant unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business.
Visit our DE&I Page to learn more about Prysmian's commitments.
Your application data will be treated according to our Data Protection Policy. If you believe you require assistance to complete this form or to participate in an interview, please contact us at talent.mobility@prysmiangroup.com.