1

Extruded Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Line Operator

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

... extruded products for defects, and to check for quality conformance to specification; adjust ... operating conditions and product measurements • Report major process change to Production ...

Assistant Operator (2289)

Hopkinsville, KY · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

... all extruded items and products being produced • Provide support and assistance as needed to the Operator I and Operator II during start up, changeover, and shut down • Assist in moving and ...

7 Line Operator

Milford, NH · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

Preparation of extruded cable for electrical testing when applicable. * Takes corrective action to ... Operator is considered secondary and is responsible to assume duties of the primary Emergency ...

Press Operator

Decatur, AL

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

PRESS OPERATORS NEEDED DECATUR AL 1st & 3rd shift available 12 hour shifts 6-6 (2/2/3 schedule) Job ... Set up exit table for extruded material to successfully transfer from lead out to run out table.

Material Production Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Preparation and Production of Extruded Ingot Materials * Ingots are manufactured and delivered on ... Ability to use crushers, grinders to make TE powders as well as operating complex hot forming and ...

Material Production Operator

Dallas, TX

$15.75 - $19/hr

Preparation and Production of Extruded Ingot Materials * Ingots are manufactured and delivered on ... Ability to use crushers, grinders to make TE powders as well as operating complex hot forming and ...

Slit Film Operator

Bridgeport, AL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

A Slit Film Operator maintains and operates a film extrusion line to cut continuous lengths of extruded film. The individual strands are threaded through tension bars and feed rollers onto a winder ...

Material Production Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Preparation and Production of Extruded Ingot Materials * Ingots are manufactured and delivered on ... Ability to use crushers, grinders to make TE powders as well as operating complex hot forming and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Extruded Operator information

See salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do extruded operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for extruded operator in the United States is $18.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Extruded Operator?

An Extruded Operator is a skilled worker responsible for operating and monitoring machines that shape materials—such as plastics or metals—by forcing them through a die to create products with specific cross-sectional profiles. Their duties typically include setting up extrusion equipment, adjusting machine settings for proper output, ensuring product quality, and performing routine maintenance. Extruded Operators play a crucial role in manufacturing industries that produce pipes, tubing, sheets, or custom profiles. They must pay attention to detail and follow safety protocols to prevent defects and ensure efficient production.

Is extrusion operator a good job?

Extrusion operators work in manufacturing environments where they operate machinery to shape materials like plastics or metals. The job typically offers steady employment, requires attention to safety protocols, and may involve shift work; it can be a good entry-level position in manufacturing with opportunities for skill development and advancement.

What is an extrusion operator's salary?

The average salary for an extrusion operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications or specialized knowledge may earn higher wages, and the job often involves working in manufacturing environments with the use of extrusion machinery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Extruded Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Extruded Operator, you generally need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with extrusion machinery, quality control systems, and sometimes forklift certification are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe operation, product quality, and efficient production in a manufacturing environment.

What does an extrusion operator do?

An extrusion operator operates machinery that shapes materials such as plastics, metals, or rubber by forcing them through a die to create continuous profiles. They set up, monitor, and adjust equipment to ensure quality and safety, often working with tools like extruders and gauges. Attention to detail and understanding of process parameters are essential for maintaining efficient production.

What is the difference between Extruded Operator vs Injection Molding Operator?

AspectExtruded OperatorInjection Molding Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories with extrusion lines, continuous productionFactories with injection molding machines, batch production
Industry UsagePlastic, rubber, and metal manufacturingPlastic and polymer product manufacturing
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Both Extruded Operators and Injection Molding Operators work in plastic manufacturing environments, handling machinery that shapes materials. While they share similar credentials and work settings, extruded operators focus on continuous extrusion processes, whereas injection molding operators work with batch processes to produce complex shapes. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role in the manufacturing industry.

What are the typical challenges faced by an Extruded Operator and how can they be managed effectively?

Extruded Operators often face challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and managing production deadlines. Staying attentive to detail is crucial, as small variations in temperature or feed rate can impact the final product. Collaborating closely with maintenance and quality control teams helps address issues quickly and ensures smooth production flow. Continuous learning about new materials and machine upgrades can also help operators stay effective and advance in their careers.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Extruded operators and similar manufacturing roles can earn around $3,000 per month with on-the-job training and experience, often without requiring a college degree. These jobs typically involve operating machinery, quality control, and safety procedures, and may offer overtime or shift differentials to increase pay.
More about Extruded Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Extruded Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Extruded Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Extruded Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 4% Internship, 52% As Needed, 37% Full Time, 2% Nights, and 4% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,222 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Line Operator

Line Operator

WL Plastics LLC

Rapid City, SD • On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


WL Plastics rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 81 rated plastic manufacturers


Job description

Line Operator - Rapid City, SD- Night Shift

Job Description

Rapid City, SD

Line Operator
$21.00 - $24.00 per hour plus $1 per hour extra shift differential.

Work HALF of the month, having every other weekend as 3-day weekend!

Higher starting wage will be considered for acceptable manufacturing experience.

Increases based on successful completion of Employee Qualifications Logs

BRIEF JOB DESCRIPTION:

• The Line Operator will work as part of a team to support one of the production lines with a focus on operating, caring for, and maintaining the extrusion equipment, and improving the machines performance.

• Key activities include process monitoring, minor maintenance, troubleshooting, and process improvement.

• The Line Operator reports to the Production Supervisor or Lead Operator at the manufacturing facility.

RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE:

• Adjust controls to draw product into specified diameter.

• Assist with changeovers on extrusion machines according to production line changes.

• Clean work areas.

• Load machine hoppers with mixed materials.

• Measure and examine extruded products for defects, and to check for quality conformance to specification; adjust controls as necessary to alter product.

• Reel extruded products into rolls of specified lengths.

• Start machines and set controls to regulate vacuum, air pressure, sizing rings, temperature, and synchronize speed of extrusion.

• Document machine operating conditions and product measurements

• Report major process change to Production supervisor.

• Package product and move to staging area for quality control inspection.

• Performing other duties assigned by Production Supervisor

• 12-hour shifts to include weekend work will be required

• Accountable for understanding and putting into practice the SHE Principles.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Must have excellent communication skills.

• Proficient with reading, writing, and basic math skills relating to the job, function or assignment.

• Ability to use and interpret precision instruments, tools, machinery and equipment.

• Must be able to work safely in a production environment; must be physically capable of performing job related tasks and job duties.

• Good organizational skills- must have ability to determine priorities, manage time properly, and multi-task.

• Adherence to Quality Policy and ISO 9001 Procedural requirements.

• Work closely with quality assurance, shipping personnel, and production supervisor.

• Initiative, adaptability, and communication skills are necessary for success in this position.

• Must be a U.S. citizen or a non-U.S. citizen having legal status to reside and work in the U.S. for reasons other than practical training.

• Regular, predictable, full attendance is an essential function of the job.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Specific visions abilities require by job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, the ability to adjust focus and distinguish color.

• Walk, sit, climb, stoop, bend, kneel, balance, crouch or crawl, talk or hear.

• Use hand to fingers, handle, or feel objects, tools and controls, reach with hands and arms, climb stairs or ladders.

• Employee must be able to lift objects up to 50 lbs.

• Ability to climb stairs and/or ladders.

• Ability to stand and walk 8-12 hours per day.

• Ability to wear PPE, including, but not limited to, hard hat, safety glasses and steel toe footwear that meets ASTM F-2413-2005 standards while in required locations.

• The employee will be required to: read, communicate verbally and in written form, remember and analyze certain information, and remember and understand certain instructions or guidelines.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be required to stand, walk, and sit the employee is frequently required to use hands to touch, handle, and feel and to reach with hands and arms.

• Ability to work in varying temperatures and inclement weather; during their shifts, excluding breaks.

TRAINING:

• The company provides training in safety, equipment operation, and quality requirements.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• Travel is not usually required. Travel to other cities or manufacturing facilities may be necessary for training or benchmarking purposes.

Safety is the most important part of all jobs within WL Plastics; therefore, candidates and employees must be able to demonstrate the ability to initiate, lead, and uphold safety policies, procedures, and housekeeping standards at all times.

Company Description

WL Plastics is North America's largest manufacturer of solid wall polyethylene pipes, offering both High and Medium Density Polyethylene solutions. From municipal water systems to industrial applications, our pipes are trusted to serve a wide variety of industries with strength and durability.

What WL Plastics employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom