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Extruder Operator Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Extruder Operator information

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How much do extruder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for extruder operator in Michigan is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Extruder Operator jobs in Michigan?

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

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

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

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

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

Extruder Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Extruder Operator job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,884 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Principal Tooling Development Engineer

Custom Profile

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Are you a master of the extrusion process who loves solving complex engineering puzzles and mentoring others?
We are seeking a Principal Tooling Development Engineer to serve as our resident corporate expert on tooling and extrusion process development. In this high-impact role, you will be the go-to authority for the entire organization, focusing on complex new item development, advanced material trials, and multi-facility scrap reduction initiatives.
Rather than handling standard production runs, you will collaborate closely with the Engineering Manager to tackle our most challenging, non-standard projects. A core focus of this role is institutional growth-you will champion continuous improvement and actively train and elevate the technical skills of teams across all our facilities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Lead complex tooling redesigns, die work, shape block modifications, material trials, and color trials.
  • Develop and introduce new materials, cutting-edge technologies, and advanced processes to the organization; document precise process parameters and standard work instructions.
  • Partner closely with the Tooling Manager and Design Engineer to establish and document organizational best practices for tool design. Work with Sales on new part designs, dimensional tolerances, and material selection.
  • Support and train Set-Up Operators and Operators during first production runs. Review all critical dimensions and processes, following up to resolve future run issues.
  • Partner with production teams to design, modify, and implement robust training programs that incorporate extrusion best practices.
  • Troubleshoot complex existing tooling and processes. Work alongside manufacturing teams to achieve CI goals based on a priority list jointly created with the Engineering Manager and Plant Managers across all facilities.
  • Coordinate across manufacturing and engineering departments to ensure seamless completion of profiles and first production protocols.
  • Maintain a clean, organized work area adhering to daily housekeeping and 5S standards. Promote a safety-first culture and an enjoyable, efficient team environment.

Requirements
Qualifications and Requirements
  • Experience: Minimum of 5 years of hands-on plastic profile extrusion experience required. (A suitable combination of advanced technical education and experience will also be considered).

Required Core Strengths:
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD.
  • Solid experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, Excel).
  • Excellent organizational and follow-up skills.
  • Strong verbal, written, and presentation communication skills.

Preferred Experience:
  • Streamline and flat-back extrusion dies and vacuum calibration tools.
  • Single and dual extrusions running on a single-screw extruder.
  • Blueprint reading.
  • Exposure to ERP/MRP manufacturing systems.

Physical Demands & Work Environment
  • Must be able to safely lift and/or move up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work effectively in a moderate-noise manufacturing plant environment.
  • Adherence to all safety protocols is mandatory; safety glasses, hearing protection, and closed-toe shoes must be worn at all times on the production floor.
  • Travel: Travel to other company facilities is required to support multi-site development and production goals.

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