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Extruder Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Hickman's Family Farms

PM EXTRUDER OPERATOR

Avondale, AZ · On-site

$18.39/hr

The Extruder Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining extruder equipment to produce plastic materials used in packaging. This role includes performing startups, monitoring product ...

Hickman's Family Farms

PM EXTRUDER OPERATOR

Avondale, AZ · On-site

$18.39/hr

The Extruder Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining extruder equipment to produce plastic materials used in packaging. This role includes performing startups, monitoring product ...

APEL Extrusions Inc.

Quality Manager

Phoenix, AZ

The Company APEL Extrusions, Inc. is an independent extruder, finisher and fabricator of aluminum ... APEL Operating System while providing Quality leadership within the APEL organization. The ...

All JobsExtruder Operator JobsExtruder Operator Jobs in Arizona

Extruder Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do extruder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for extruder operator in Arizona is $17.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine operators, industrial machinery operators, or roles in the oil and gas industry. These positions typically require advanced technical skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer higher wages compared to standard machine operator roles like extruder operators.

What are Extruder Operators?

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.

Is extrusion operator a skilled job?

An extrusion operator is considered a skilled worker who operates and monitors extrusion machinery, requiring knowledge of machine settings, safety procedures, and quality control. The role often involves technical skills, attention to detail, and sometimes certification or training in machinery operation. It is generally classified as a semi-skilled or skilled trade depending on the complexity of the equipment used.

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

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 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.

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 and experience in operating extrusion machinery may earn higher wages and additional benefits.

What are some 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 does an extruder operator do?

An extruder operator manages machinery that shapes raw materials, such as plastics or metals, by forcing them through a die to create continuous profiles or products. They monitor equipment, adjust settings for quality, and perform routine maintenance to ensure efficient production. Knowledge of safety procedures and sometimes certification in operating heavy machinery are important in this role.
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Extruder Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Extruder Operator job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 34% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 3% Nights, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 48% Physical, and 52% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $37,297 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

PM EXTRUDER OPERATOR

Hickman's Family Farms

Avondale, AZ • On-site

$18.39/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Hickman's Family Farms rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 64 rated farming

Job description

Job Summary:
The Extruder Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining extruder equipment to produce plastic materials used in packaging. This role includes performing startups, monitoring product quality, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance on high-speed extrusion equipment. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and capable of working independently in a fast-paced production environment, supporting Hickman's commitment to efficient and quality packaging production.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operate and monitor extruder equipment, ensuring consistent flow and quality of extruded plastic material.
  • Perform equipment startups, calibrations, and shutdowns according to standard operating procedures.
  • Build pallets of finished products and ensure proper labeling and storage.
  • Utilize the HMI (Human-Machine Interface) for machine controls, making minor adjustments to optimize production.
  • Regularly inspect product quality, check for defects or overfilling, and take corrective action as needed.
  • Monitor coil levels and refill as necessary to prevent machine stoppages or collisions.
  • Obtain forklift and pallet jack OSHA certification; assist with moving raw materials and finished products as required.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, following all safety and GMP protocols.
  • Assist maintenance team in troubleshooting and repairing machinery when technical issues arise.

Resumen del Puesto:
El Operador de Extrusora es responsable de operar y mantener el equipo de extrusión para producir materiales plásticos utilizados en el empaque. Este puesto incluye realizar arranques, monitorear la calidad del producto, resolver problemas y realizar mantenimiento rutinario en equipos de extrusión de alta velocidad. El candidato ideal es detallista, consciente de la seguridad y capaz de trabajar de manera independiente en un entorno de producción de ritmo rápido, apoyando el compromiso de Hickman's con una producción de empaque eficiente y de alta calidad.
Funciones y Responsabilidades:
  • Operar y monitorear el equipo de extrusión, asegurando un flujo constante y calidad uniforme del material plástico extruido.
  • Realizar arranques, calibraciones y apagados del equipo según los procedimientos operativos estándar.
  • Armar tarimas con los productos terminados y asegurar el etiquetado y almacenamiento adecuados.
  • Utilizar la interfaz HMI (Interfaz Humano-Máquina) para controlar la máquina, haciendo ajustes menores para optimizar la producción.
  • Inspeccionar regularmente la calidad del producto, verificar defectos o sobrellenado, y tomar acciones correctivas cuando sea necesario.
  • Monitorear los niveles de bobina y rellenar según sea necesario para evitar paros o colisiones en la máquina.
  • Obtener la certificación OSHA para el uso de montacargas y patines hidráulicos; asistir en el movimiento de materiales y productos terminados cuando se requiera.
  • Mantener un área de trabajo limpio y organizada, siguiendo todos los protocolos de seguridad y Buenas Prácticas de Manufactura (GMP).
  • Apoyar al equipo de mantenimiento en la resolución de problemas y reparación del equipo cuando surjan fallas técnicas.

Required Skills and Abilities:
  • High school diploma or equivalent; technical training in manufacturing or related field preferred.
  • Previous experience in manufacturing, especially with extrusion or thermal forming equipment.
  • Basic understanding of HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems and ability to make machine adjustments.
  • Forklift and pallet jack certification, or willingness to obtain certification.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality control and product standards.
  • Ability to follow safety protocols and maintain a safe work environment.
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality to meet production schedules.

Education and Experience:
  • No specific education requirement listed
  • Prior food production or processing experience preferred, but not required

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to stand, walk, squat, bend, and lift for extended periods.
  • Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise and machinery.
  • Ability to frequently lift and move items up to 50 pounds.

Work Schedule:
  • This position begins with daytime hours for training. Upon successful completion of training, the employee will transition to a PM (evening/night) shift. During the training period, the employee will learn the necessary skills and responsibilities, and once fully trained, will be expected to work in the PM shift as the primary role.

Habilidades y Capacidades Requeridas:
  • Diploma de preparatoria o equivalente; se prefiere capacitación técnica en manufactura o campo relacionado.
  • Experiencia previa en manufactura, especialmente con equipos de extrusión o termoformado.
  • Conocimientos básicos de sistemas HMI (Interfaz Humano-Máquina) y habilidad para hacer ajustes al equipo.
  • Certificación en montacargas y patín hidráulico, o disposición para obtenerla.
  • Gran atención al detalle y compromiso con el control de calidad y los estándares del producto.
  • Capacidad para seguir protocolos de seguridad y mantener un entorno de trabajo seguro.
  • Asistencia y puntualidad confiables para cumplir con los horarios de producción.

Educación y Experiencia:
  • No se requiere educación específica.
  • Se prefiere experiencia previa en producción o procesamiento de alimentos, pero no es obligatoria.

Requisitos Físicos:
  • Capacidad para estar de parado, caminar, agacharse, doblarse y levantar objetos por períodos prolongados.
  • Comodidad trabajando en un entorno de manufactura con exposición a ruido y maquinaria.
  • Capacidad para levantar y mover objetos que pesen hasta 50 libras con frecuencia.

Horario de Trabajo:
Este puesto comienza con un horario diurno durante el período de capacitación. Al completar con éxito la capacitación, el empleado pasará a un turno PM (vespertino/nocturno). Durante la capacitación, el empleado aprenderá las habilidades y responsabilidades necesarias, y una vez completamente capacitado, trabajará en el turno PM como función principal.

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