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Extruder Operator Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Extrusion Operator (D Shift)

Mcpherson, KS

$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 ...

New

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 ...

Pipe Trainee

Maize, KS · On-site

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

Extrusion Operator is responsible for running extrusion machines, packing and moving pipe to ... Starting up extruder, monitoring material flow, making adjustments to extruder and downstream ...

Pipe Trainee

Maize, KS · On-site

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

Extrusion Operator is responsible for running extrusion machines, packing and moving pipe to ... Starting up extruder, monitoring material flow, making adjustments to extruder and downstream ...

Pipe Trainee

Maize, KS

$21.50 - $27.50/hr

Extrusion Operator is responsible for running extrusion machines, packing and moving pipe to ... Starting up extruder, monitoring material flow, making adjustments to extruder and downstream ...

... extruder, former, and trim press. * Troubleshoot and correct issues on the line to reduce downtime ... Support operators when issues arise, including assisting with defective parts and rework.

... extruder, former, and trim press. * Troubleshoot and correct issues on the line to reduce downtime ... Support operators when issues arise, including assisting with defective parts and rework.

Showing results 21-33

Extruder Operator information

See Kansas salary details

$10

$17

$22

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:

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.

Extrusion Operator (D Shift)

Westlake

Mcpherson, KS

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Westlake Chemical rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 100 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

Westlake Pipe & Fittings,a Westlake division(NYSE:WLK),is one of the largestpolyvinyl chloride pipe and fittingsmanufacturerin North America. With23manufacturing and distribution locations, the company supplies gasketed, solvent weld and restrained joint pipes and a wide range of fittings for a diverse list of markets including municipal water and sewer, plumbing, water well, pool and spa, and agricultural and turf irrigation. Westlake Pipe & Fittings is an industry leader in product development with Certa-Lok spline-lock technology and product systems that are focused on buildingA Better Foundation. To learn more, visit the website atWestlakePipe.comand follow us onLinkedInandFacebook.

SUMMARY

The production operator is assigned to a specific cell or work area on a production shift and is responsible for the efficient operation of the production equipment and required to perform the following duties.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

May include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Perform the primary thinking encompassed by this job description.
  • Comply with all Company policies and procedures.
  • Maintain operation of multiple lines, including loading gaskets and packaging end product for shipment.
  • Visually inspect product for quality assurance purposes.
  • Measure and record pipe dimensions as required. Take the proper action according to SPC Charting.
  • Control dimensions to maintain pipe specifications with direct supervision.
  • Move bundled pipe from work area (scrap and good product).
  • Assist in production line start-up activities and changeovers.
  • Follow all operational and safety procedures.
  • Cut and band scrap as directed.
  • Maintain a clean, safe and orderly work area per established housekeeping standards.
  • Understand Belling Operations.
  • Report any equipment malfunctions, product defects or unsafe conditions immediately.
  • Read and Understand SOP's contained in Operator Manual
  • Relieve and assist other operators as needed.
  • Work as a team with other personnel.
  • Other duties as required.
  • Follows all SAFETY rules per orientation.
  • Possess the skill and ability to purge a line down with supervision.
  • Proper stacking of pipe in lifts.
  • Perform visual inspection for quality of pipe; seek higher authority when in doubt.
  • Remove gaskets from scrap pipe. Pipe with gaskets will NOT be placed in the scrap cart.
  • Knows and can display how to get all quality readings from the pipe.
  • Can accurately fill out and use the Control Charts to maintain weights at or below goal
  • Is responsible for assisting supervisor and manufacturing personnel during changeovers. Areas included but not limited to: Changing tank rubbers, cleaning sprayers, putting in pull pipe, cleaning around beller, spray tanks, vacuum tanks and the extruder, checks print strip and performs assigned task during start-up.
  • Is responsible for recording vacuum on vent system and notifies supervisor or lead operator on any low vacuum.
  • Can completely and accurately fill out operator sheets.
  • Is responsible for cutting any quality samples assigned by QC.
  • Can communicate all issues to both lead operator and the supervisor.
  • Maintaining clean, organized work area.
  • Is responsible for keeping gaskets loaded in beller when running gasketed product.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • No prior experience or training required.
  • Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions in English. Communication skills (written and verbal) and be able to work well with operators, shift leaders and office personnel. Shares information with co-workers as needed.
  • Ability to read a tape measure, add and subtract two-digit numbers and to multiply and divide with 10's and 100's. Ability to perform these operations using units of American money and weight measurement, volume, and distance.
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
  • To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 40-50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid, hot and cold conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, outside weather conditions, risk of electrical shock, and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.

If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here.You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.


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