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Extruder Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Owens Corning

Extruder Operator

Rockford, IL

$26 - $30/hr

Extruder Operator: Level 1 and Extruder Operator: Level 2. Employees must be in good standing and proficient in being an Extruder Operator: Level 1 before moving to Level 2. Principal Duties and ...

Owens Corning

Extruder Operator

Rockford, IL · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Extruder Operator: Level 1 and Extruder Operator: Level 2. Employees must be in good standing and proficient in being an Extruder Operator: Level 1 before moving to Level 2. Principal Duties and ...

Express Employment

Extruder Operator

Brighton, MI

$19 - $22/hr

Extruder Operator We are searching for dependable, mechanically inclined individuals who enjoy hands-on manufacturing work to join the team in Brighton, MI as an Extruder Operator. * 1st Shift:

1 Resource Group

Extruder Operator

Baytown, TX · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

The Extruder Operator will be responsible for operating and maintaining extrusion equipment, ensuring product quality, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. This role involves working ...

Sunrise Plastic Enterprise, Inc

Extruder Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Extruder Operator Department: Manufacturing / Production Reports To: Production Supervisor Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt Work Schedule: Assigned Shift; overtime, weekends, and holidays may be ...

Calmont Wire & Cable

Be Seen First

Extruder Operator

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$22 - $40/hr

Extruder Operator Job Summary: Our custom manufacturing firm makes the most advanced wire and cable in the world. We design and manufacture wire and cable for NASA and a wide variety of high ...

1 Resource Group

Extruder Operator

Baytown, TX · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

The Extruder Operator will be responsible for operating and maintaining extrusion equipment, ensuring product quality, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. This role involves working ...

Surge Staffing

Extruder Operator

Las Vegas, NV

$20 - $23/hr

Extruder Operator Pay: $20-$23 per hour, based on experience Schedule: Thursday-Saturday, 5:40 PM-6:00 AM Job Summary We are hiring an experienced Extruder Operator to join a specialty plastics ...

Omega Flex

Extruder Operator/Machine Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

We are currently looking to hire an Extruder Machine Operator in our Houston, TX facility. If you have experience running extruder machines, this is an excellent opportunity for you to join an ...

1 Resource Group

Extruder Operator

Baytown, TX · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

The Extruder Operator will be responsible for operating and maintaining extrusion equipment, ensuring product quality, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. This role involves working ...

Omega Flex Inc

Extruder Operator/Machine Operator

Exton, PA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

We are currently looking to hire an Extruder Machine Operator in our Exton, PA facility. If you have experience running extruder machines, this is an excellent opportunity for you to join an ...

Omega Flex Inc

Extruder Operator/Machine Operator

Exton, PA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

We are currently looking to hire an Extruder Machine Operator in our Exton, PA facility. If you have experience running extruder machines, this is an excellent opportunity for you to join an ...

Omega Flex

Extruder Operator/Machine Operator

Exton, PA · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

We are currently looking to hire an Extruder Machine Operator in our Exton, PA facility. If you have experience running extruder machines, this is an excellent opportunity for you to join an ...

CRH

Extruder Operator

Colfax, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Extruder Operator Infrastructure Products Group Colfax, North Carolina, United States Job ID: 527869 Non-Exempt Oldcastle, a CRH company, is reinventing what's possible in building solutions. We are ...

Ultima Plastics LLC

Extruder Operator

Evansville, IN · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Extruder Operator - Second Shift Responsibilities: - Oversee and coordinate daily production activities - Set up and operate production equipment - Monitor production processes to ensure efficiency ...

Partners Personnel

Extruder Operator

Temecula, CA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

The Extruder Operator position plays a crucial role in producing high-quality products by expertly operating and maintaining extrusion machinery. This role requires precision in monitoring production ...

New

Spartech

Extruder Operator

Crawfordsville, IN · On-site

$19/hr

Extruder Operator - Starting Wages are $19 per hour!! Crawfordsville, IN How can you make a difference at your job and can have the opportunity to grow? Join the Crawfordsville - Spartech Team!

Surge Staffing

Extruder Operator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Extruder Operator Pay: $20$23 per hour, based on experience Schedule: ThursdaySaturday, 5:40 PM6:00 AM Job Summary We are hiring an experienced Extruder Operator to join a specialty plastics ...

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Extruder Operator information

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$12

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How much do extruder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for extruder operator in the United States is $19.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an extruder operator?

Extruder Operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that shape materials, such as plastic, rubber, or food, using an extrusion process. They monitor machine controls, adjust settings, and ensure that products meet quality and safety standards. Extruder Operators also troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and keep detailed production records. Their work is essential in manufacturing industries that produce pipes, films, sheets, and various molded items.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an extruder operator?

To thrive as an Extruder Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Experience with extruder machinery, familiarity with quality control systems, and sometimes certifications in safety or equipment operation are valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure efficient production, minimize downtime, and maintain the quality and safety standards crucial in manufacturing environments.

What are common challenges faced by extruder operators and how can they be managed?

Extruder Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and minimizing downtime during equipment changeovers. These challenges can be managed by developing a strong understanding of machine settings, regularly inspecting equipment, and following preventive maintenance schedules. Collaboration with quality control and maintenance teams is also essential to quickly resolve issues and ensure smooth production runs.

What is the difference between Extruder Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectExtruder OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in extrusion processesHigh school diploma, general machinery training
Work EnvironmentPlastic, rubber, or metal manufacturing facilitiesVarious manufacturing settings including assembly lines
Industry UsagePrimarily in plastics, rubber, and polymer industriesBroad across multiple manufacturing sectors
Job FocusOperating extrusion machinery to produce specific productsOperating various machinery to produce or assemble products

While both roles involve operating machinery in manufacturing, an Extruder Operator specializes in extrusion equipment used for plastics and rubber, focusing on product quality and process control. A Machine Operator has a broader scope, working with different types of machinery across various industries. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much do extrusion operators make in the US?

Extruder operators in the US typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in operating extrusion machinery may earn higher wages and benefits. Wages can vary based on the complexity of the equipment and shift differentials.

Is extrusion operator a good job?

An extrusion operator is responsible for operating machinery that shapes materials like plastics or metals, often requiring attention to safety protocols and technical skills. The job can offer steady employment and opportunities for advancement, especially with experience and certifications. Work environments are typically manufacturing plants with shift schedules, and physical stamina is beneficial.
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Extruder Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Extruder Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,023 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Extruder Operator

Mishawaka, IN • On-site

United Petfood Producers USA Inc.
See more jobs at United Petfood Producers USA Inc.external

$23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Extruder Operator
Location: Mishawaka, IN
Department: Production
Job Type: Hourly 

Work Schedule: Sunday–Wednesday or Wednesday-Saturday Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM or 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM (12-hour shifts), Wednesday 1/2 shifts

Pay: $23 per hour / Night shift $1.00 shift differential, Weekend shift $1.50 shift Diff. 

About United Petfood

United Petfood is a private label producer of high-quality dry & wet pet food, biscuits, and snacks. We are a Belgian family business with 25 high-tech pet kitchens in Europe and the US.

Joining us means being part of an international, passionate, and driven team with one common goal: a healthy planet filled with healthy pets! We value long-lasting partnerships, innovation, and providing an environment where our people can grow and thrive.

Learn more: United Petfood Producers USA, Inc.

Position Summary

United Petfood is hiring an Extruder Operator to join our Mishawaka team. 

The Extruder Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and disassembling extrusion equipment while ensuring that production meets quality, food safety, and safety standards.


Key Responsibilities

  • Set up, operate, and disassemble extrusion equipment in accordance with SOPs and GMPs.

  • Start up production equipment according to the production schedule.

  • Troubleshoot extruder equipment and make adjustments as needed.

  • Monitor product visually and with micrometer; ensure product meets job specifications.

  • Perform die changes to ensure correct kibble sizes by brand/SKU.

  • Check and document product parameters (moisture, temperature, protein, liquid fat) frequently.

  • Maintain cleanliness throughout the work shift and follow sanitation SOPs.

  • Review production schedule throughout shift and ensure timely completion of runs.

  • Follow all safety, quality, and food safety standards.

  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Safety

  • Complete safety system documentation and report deviations.

  • Participate in mandatory safety trainings and follow all safety policies.

  • Immediately report safety issues, near misses, and injuries.

Quality & Food Safety

  • Complete required documentation and ensure compliance with quality and food safety standards.

  • Monitor Critical Control Points (CCPs) and report any deviations.

  • Take necessary action to resolve quality or food safety deficiencies.

  • Uphold the BRC system through adherence to policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications

  • Ability to read, write, and communicate in English.

  • Ability to work in an environment with exposure to odors, noise, heat, cold, dust, and chemicals.

  • Ability to lift 50lbs multiple times during a shift.

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to use hand tools and measuring devices.

  • Good math and communication skills at a high school level.

  • Ability to read and follow process operating procedures.

  • Familiarity with computer applications.

Desired Qualifications

  • Prior experience operating an extruder.

  • Previous experience setting up and running production machines.

  • Experience in a food or beverage manufacturing environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer:
United Petfood Producers USA Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees.