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Extruder Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Cargill

Extruder Operator

Kansas City, KS

$26/hr

Communicate effectively with batching operators, meat room operators, and other production personnel regarding product flow and operational status. * Maintain a clean and orderly work area, including ...

Cargill

Extruder Operator

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$26/hr

Communicate effectively with batching operators, meat room operators, and other production personnel regarding product flow and operational status. * Maintain a clean and orderly work area, including ...

Cargill

Extruder Operator

Kansas City, KS

$26/hr

Communicate effectively with batching operators, meat room operators, and other production personnel regarding product flow and operational status. * Maintain a clean and orderly work area, including ...

Parker

Extruder Operator I - 3rd Shift

Manhattan, KS

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Prevent excess waste of product and/or components by operating the equipment in an efficient manner. * Maintain production schedules. * Participate in peer-based teams (i.e., Natural High Performance ...

New

Westlake

Extrusion Operator - C Shift

Mcpherson, KS · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

SUMMARY The production operator is assigned to a specific cell or work area on a production shift ... extruder, checks print strip and performs assigned task during start-up. * Is responsible for ...

Westlake

Extrusion Operator (A Shift)

Mcpherson, KS · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

SUMMARY The production operator is assigned to a specific cell or work area on a production shift ... extruder, checks print strip and performs assigned task during start-up. * Is responsible for ...

Westlake

Extrusion Operator (A Shift)

Mcpherson, KS · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

SUMMARY The production operator is assigned to a specific cell or work area on a production shift ... extruder, checks print strip and performs assigned task during start-up. * Is responsible for ...

Westlake

Extrusion Operator (B Shift)

Mcpherson, KS · On-site

SUMMARY The production operator is assigned to a specific cell or work area on a production shift ... extruder, checks print strip and performs assigned task during start-up. * Is responsible for ...

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Extruder Operator information

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$10

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How much do extruder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for extruder operator in Kansas is $17.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.85 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.

What are popular job titles related to Extruder Operator jobs in Kansas?

For Extruder Operator jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Extruder Operator jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Extruder Operator jobs in Kansas are:

What are popular job titles related to Extruder Operator jobs in KS?

For Extruder Operator jobs in KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Extruder Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Extruder Operator job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,694 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Extruder Operator

Cargill

Kansas City, KS

$26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Cargill rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 224 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 49 rated food wholesalers

Job description

Cargill is a family company committed to providing food and agricultural solutions to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. We sit at the heart of the supply chain, partnering with producers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living. By providing customers with lifes essentials, we enable businesses to grow, communities to prosper, and consumers to live well.

This position is in our specialized portfolio enterprise where we serve diverse businesses who support unique customers or markets, including animal nutrition and health, bioindustrial, road safety salt and Cargill joint ventures.

Job Type: Full Time
Shift(s) Available: 3rd
Compensation: $26.00/hr.

New, easy-to-apply options are available for this role: chat with our recruiting assistant Ana at careers.cargill.com or text CargillJobs to 60196.

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Insurance
  • Health and Wellness Incentives
  • Paid Vacation and Holidays
  • 401(k) with Cargill matching contributions
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Short-Term Disability and Life Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Employee Discounts

Recommended for all production roles:

  • Extrude quality product efficiently while meeting established production standards.
  • Conduct and document in-process quality checks every 30 minutes.
  • Ensure proper additive ingredients are used and applied at specified rates.
  • Set up and change die plates and knife heads as required.
  • Minimize startup and changeover times while maintaining safety and product quality.
  • Communicate effectively with batching operators, meat room operators, and other production personnel regarding product flow and operational status.
  • Maintain a clean and orderly work area, including the extrusion line and surrounding production areas.
  • Assist with weekly sanitation of production equipment.
  • Provide accurate shift handoff information and transfer responsibilities between shifts.
  • Complete all production and quality documentation accurately and legibly.

What You Will Need:

  • Eligible to work in the United States without visa sponsorship
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Ability to perform physical job duties which may include bending, lifting to 50lbs, kneeling, climbing, crawling, and twisting safely, with or without a reasonable accommodation
  • Ability to work in varied indoor and outdoor conditions which may include heat, cold, dust, loud noise, etc., with the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including a respirator
  • Ability to understand and communicate in English(verbal/written)
  • Ability to work in elevated areas (4 feet and above)
  • Basic use of a computer
  • Ability to work overtime including weekends, holidays, or different shifts with advance notice
  • Must be able to operate machinery and/or industrial equipment
  • 1 year experience in production or manufacturing environment.
.

What Will Put You Ahead:

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification.
  • One or more years of food extrusion experience.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Word.
  • Experience in pet food, food manufacturing, or related processing industries.
  • Familiarity with GMP, HACCP, SQF, and food safety regulations.

Considered candidates will receive a phone call from a (952) area code. Please note that this position does not include relocation reimbursement.

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet


To apply using chat/text, please click Apply Now button OR use this link to create a login to apply.

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About Cargill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cargill was founded in 1865 as a single grain warehouse in Iowa, U.S. Since then, we’ve grown to become a global partner connecting people around the planet. But one thing has remained constant over the years: our purpose of nourishing the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way. Cargill is committed to conducting business with integrity, operating responsibly, enriching communities and nourishing the world. In the fiscal year 2021, Cargill provided $110.5 million in total charitable contributions in 56 countries to support our communities. Cargill businesses and employee-led groups partner with local civic, nonprofit and non-governmental organizations on programs and projects that improve food security and nutrition; support human rights, equity and inclusion; strengthen farmer livelihoods; and advance our commitments in the areas of land use, water and climate.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

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