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Extruder Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Operator, Extruder I

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$29.58 - $31.99/hr

The Operator, Extruder 1 is a high skill role that will set up and operate extrusion lines and related equipment, including nylon extruders, pay-offs and take-ups. These lines that fall under this ...

Operator, Extruder I

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$29.58 - $31.99/hr

The Operator, Extruder 1 is a high skill role that will set up and operate extrusion lines and related equipment, including nylon extruders, pay-offs and take-ups. These lines that fall under this ...

Mill/Winder Operator

La Porte, IN

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Prepare and start up the Extruder, Mill, and assist with threading the line * Refeed rolls as instructed by the calendar operator * Follow all relevant policies and procedures (Safety, 5S, and ARC ...

Production Operator

Evansville, IN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Sets up extruder to run a product in accordance with standard operating conditions with minimal downtime and loss of product. * Monitors and troubleshoots during the extrusion process. * If safety or ...

Extrusion Operator 1 Reports To: Production Supervisor Direct reports: n/a Key relationships ... Bring compound to extruder and compound according to set-up sheet * Make spools/boxes according to ...

Production Operator- Extrusion

Evansville, IN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Sets up extruder to run a product in accordance with standard operating conditions with minimal downtime and loss of product. * Monitors and troubleshoots during the extrusion process. * If safety or ...

Sabert is looking for Experienced Machine Operators to join our team! Starting rate: $24.75 - $26 ... Heat Related (when working on extruder die) Schedule: * 12 hours shift: from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm or ...

Production Operator | Entry Level Are you ready to be part of a company that helps keep food, flowers, and medical supplies safe during transport? This entry-level Production Operator position is a ...

Showing results 21-40

Extruder Operator information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do extruder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for extruder operator in Indiana is $18.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $20.14 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.

Is extrusion operator a good job?

An extrusion operator is responsible for operating machinery that shapes materials like plastics or metals, often working in manufacturing environments. The job typically requires attention to safety protocols, technical skills, and may involve shift work; it can offer steady employment and opportunities for skill development. Overall, it can be a stable career for those interested in manufacturing and machinery operation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Extruder Operator jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Extruder Operator jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Extruder Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,084 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Operator, Extruder I

Southwire Company LLC

Lafayette, IN • On-site

$29.58 - $31.99/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Southwire rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

A leader in technology and innovation, Southwire Company, LLC is one of North America's largest wire and cable producers. Southwire and its subsidiaries manufacture building wire and cable, utility products, metal-clad cable, portable and electronic cord products, OEM wire products and engineered products. In addition, Southwire supplies assembled products, contractor equipment, electrical components, hand tools and jobsite power and lighting solutions. The company also offers digital solutions including contractor planning and utility grid resiliency as well as field services including cable testing, rejuvenation and replacement to support our customers as a value-add partner. We are proud to offer competitive compensation, employee benefits, tuition reimbursement and unlimited growth opportunities. Our more than seven decades of progressive growth can be attributed to our determination to developing innovative systems and solutions, exercising environmental stewardship and enhancing the well-being of the communities in which we work and live. How will you power what's possible?
Location: Lafayette, IN
Shift: 7p - 7a
Pay Rate: $29.58 - $31.99
Job Description
JOB OVERVIEW:
The Operator, Extruder 1 is a high skill role that will set up and operate extrusion lines and related equipment, including nylon extruders, pay-offs and take-ups. These lines that fall under this job class mainly operate as two person lines
For example, some commonly ran machines that would fall under this job title would be: 6 inch PVC Extruder (BWP), Met Extruder (MC Plant), Jacket Lines (Heflin) CV Lines (North Campus)
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
High school diploma or equivalent
Must read, write, and speak English; Bilingual in Spanish is a plus
Must be able to stand and lift heavy loads for long periods of time
Must be able to read and comprehend production orders and the instrumentation on complex equipment
Must be able to lift up to 45 lbs
Basic math skills (adding, subtracting, etc..)
Judgments concerning operation of extrusion line and related equipment are encountered
PRIMARY JOB TASKS:
Must be able to work under supervision and maintain ongoing communication with the supervisor and peers through verbal instruction and reports
Put scrap into the designated scrap bins
Responsible for proper setup of extrusion line and related equipment with correct tip and die and correct wire size
Responsible to maintain correct wire size, insulation thickness and concentricity
Responsible for application of correct print of acceptable quality on cable
Responsible to observe Southwire safety rules, maintain good housekeeping and perform all other duties as assigned
Responsible for using proper compound and correct amounts of color concentrate
Responsible to keep wire and compound loss at a minimum during start-up and changeovers
Responsible for correct inventory of WIP tags daily
CROSS TRAINING:
Will be required to cross-train on equipment within your identified workgroup at your facility
Once trained in more complex jobs, may be required to fill the position in the event of absence or vacancy
Will be required to rotate on a set frequency within your workgroup to maintain skill proficiency
QUALITY:
Use the company's ISO Quality System documentation to help guide all daily quality activities
Do not release products until all quality checks have been passed
Immediately report quality issues to the supervisor or quality manager
SAFETY:
Working safely is a condition of employment
Follow all company environmental rules/procedures and handle all materials in a manner designed to minimize environmental impact
Extruders give off a substantial amount of radiant heat
The hopper vacuums, motors, air-wipes and other machinery can be quite noisy
Properly wear all required PPE
Review and know all Job Hazard Analyses for proper job sequence and hazards associated with the jobs assigned to do
Review and know all Safety Data Sheets for the jobs assigned to do
Maintain all work areas to 5S standards
Perform pre-operation safety inspection and hazard analysis
PHYSICAL/ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDS:
Physical activity associated with daily performance of this job include: balance, climbing, fingering, grasping, hearing, kneeling, lifting, pulling, pushing, reaching, repetitive motions, standing, stooping, walking and sitting
Must be able to work in hot and cold environments normally found in a prefabricated building without climate-control
The operator is constantly exposed to water, some heat, cold, dust and fumes
Benefits We Offer:
  • 401k with Matching & Pension Plan (Eligible for Pension after 1,000 Hours Worked)
  • Family and Individual Insurance Packages (Health, Life, Dental, and Vision)
  • Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays
  • Long & Short-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Insurance Plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Referral Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Programs
  • Advancement & Professional Growth opportunities
  • Parental Leave
  • & More

Southwire is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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