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Extruder Operator Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

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Extruder Operator information

See Massachusetts salary details

$13

$21

$27

How much do extruder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for extruder operator in Massachusetts is $21.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $23.12 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 Massachusetts?

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

Infographic showing various Extruder Operator job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,710 per year, or $21 per hour.

Multi-Line Extruder Operator - 2nd Shift

Turners Falls, MA โ€ข On-site

Judd Wire, Inc.
Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturingย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

$22.63 - $28.03/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Description
HT Extruder Operator 2nd shift
Judd Wire Inc., a Sumitomo Electric Group company, is looking for HT Extruder 2nd shift in our Turners Falls, MA manufacturing facility. Operator will set up tubing, semi-pressure and pressure processes on extruder lines which include: operation of multi-head/tandem; multi-extrusion lines; various printers; to jacket a wide range of short run, heavy/large wire, cable, braided products with extruded compounds of various colors according to specifications and established procedures. Run two extruders singly or simultaneously dependent upon demand.
Hiring Range: $22.63-28.03/hour, 2nd shift $2.00/hour shift differential
Job Duties:
  • Work from shop orders, requisitions, move various heavy sized wire reels to take off apparatus; properly mix various components and chemicals to obtain and maintain stability with regard to footage, lengths, wall thickness, proper die and leader sizes. Work in MIS system.
  • Schedule production, selecting shop orders to consolidate runs for best efficiency and to meet time requirements.
  • Set ups are exacting/precise and require placing and adjusting dies and leaders in extruder; obtaining and maintaining proper temperatures, speeds, feeds. Ensure adequate cleaning of heads, screws and barrels.
  • Operate marking/printing machines of various types (3) as specified to apply identification number, stripe or legend to extruded wire/cable. Operate multiple pay-off and take-ups per shop packet or wire size.
  • Perform visual and tactile checks of work and take samples according to specifications and instructions. Operate testing equipment and perform tests according to specifications including: concentricity, OD/ID, elongation, adherence, and other tests are required.
  • Monitor operations on a continuous basis and as needed make adjustments to water trough, speeds, feeds, and other variables to meet quality and quantity parameters.
  • Detect and report defective materials, improper compounding, malfunctioning equipment, unusual conditions to supervision. Maintain equipment and work areas in clean and orderly condition.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule

Qualifications/Requirements
  • 1-3 years experience in extrusion or relevant transferable manufacturing experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to produce quality product consistently by following standard operating procedures, using judgement and the ability to maintain mental and visual attention.
  • Maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Position requires moderate physical effort.

Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental and Vision
  • FSA/HSA
  • 401(k) with Employer Match
  • Life, AD&D and Disability
  • PTO and Holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 5 day work week, voluntary Overtime, Overtime after 8 hours/day or more than 40 hours per week

About Judd Wire, Inc.
Judd Wire, a Sumitomo Electric Group Company, is a high technology wire company, specializing in the use of electron beam crosslinked thermosets for wire insulation. By applying irradiation crosslinking technology to insulating materials, Judd Wire meets the needs of the wire and cable industry for economical, high-performance products. Judd Wire manufactures electronic wire and cable in over 100 styles recognized by Underwriters Laboratory, Canadian Standards and/or Military Specifications.
Judd Wire's two U.S. based factories are part of the Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. (SEI), the largest manufacturer of wire and cable in Japan that provides Judd Wire with access to their extensive network of research and product development facilities.
To learn more about us, please visit https://www.juddwire.com/
Get a behind the scenes look at this department High Temp Extrusion - Judd Wire
About Sumitomo Electric Group
Since the founding of Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. in 1897 with copper wire production, we have developed many new technologies and products through innovative R&D activities based on Sumitomo Electric manufacturing technologies for electric wires and power cables. With more than 350 subsidiaries worldwide, we continue to introduce a wide variety of products that fulfill the expectations of society, in five business fields: Automotive, Information & Communications, Electronics, Environment & Energy, and Industrial Materials. We are a Fortune global 500 company.
To learn more about Sumitomo Electric Group, please visit http://global-sei.com

Judd Wire logo

About Judd Wire

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Turners Falls, MA, US

Year founded

1953