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Extruder Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Tuffy's Treat Company

Extruder Operator

Delano, MN · On-site

$25.62/hr

An Extruder Operator is the engine behind the pet treat-making process . They operate and optimize extrusion equipment that mixes, cooks, shapes, and cuts ingredients into finished treats. Through ...

Tuffy's Treat Company

Extruder Operator

Delano, MN · On-site

$25.62/hr

An Extruder Operator is the engine behind the pet treat-making process . They operate and optimize extrusion equipment that mixes, cooks, shapes, and cuts ingredients into finished treats. Through ...

Richardson International

Extruder Operator

New Hope, MN · On-site

$27.78/hr

As part of Richardson's global agriculture and food business, our food and ingredients division playsa central rolein connecting farm to table through our vertically integrated supply chain.As a ...

Barrett Petfood

LF Extruder Operator 3rd

Little Falls, MN · On-site

$22.50 - $26/hr

Join Barrett Petfood as a Full-Time Skilled Operator and dive into an exciting onsite role in ... Setup, Operation of, and cleaning of the extruder used for petfood production.Inspection of product ...

Barrett Petfood

LF Extruder Operator 3rd

Little Falls, MN · On-site

$22.50 - $26/hr

Join Barrett Petfood as a Full-Time Skilled Operator and dive into an exciting onsite role in ... Setup, Operation of, and cleaning of the extruder used for petfood production. * Inspection of ...

Barrett Petfood

BRD Dryer Op 3rd

Brainerd, MN

$21 - $23/hr

Communicate often with maintenance, quality, and extruder operators * Conduct cleaning daily PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS * Prolonged periods of standing and walking through the factory. * Must be able to ...

Barrett Petfood

BRD Dryer Op 3rd

Brainerd, MN · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Communicate often with maintenance, quality, and extruder operators * Conduct cleaning daily PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS * Prolonged periods of standing and walking through the factory. * Must be able to ...

Simos

Production Associate

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$20/hr

Sets up and starts extruder machinery, checking all controls for adherence to operating/safety procedures. * Notifies appropriate personnel of any issues, problems or concerns in a timely manner.

Barrett Petfood

BRD Dryer Op 3rd

Brainerd, MN · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Join Barrett Petfood as a Full-Time Dryer Operator in Brainerd, Minnesota, and be part of a dynamic ... with maintenance, quality, and extruder operatorsConduct cleaning dailyPHYSICAL ...

Barrett Petfood

Production Supervisor

Brainerd, MN · On-site

$29.50 - $31/hr

... extruder and all auxiliary equipment (pumps, micro-motions, dry coating applicator, tanks ... operator PMs are completed per shiftWork with Maintenance Department to identify and correct any ...

New

TE Connectivity

R&D/PRODUCT DVL TECHNICIAN V

Plymouth, MN · On-site

$77K - $116K/yr

You'll be at the front end of innovation, operating extrusion equipment, solving technical ... Ideal Candidate A self-starter who can walk up to an extruder, select the right tooling, make good ...

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All JobsExtruder Operator JobsExtruder Operator Jobs in Minnesota

Extruder Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do extruder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for extruder operator in Minnesota is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $20.72 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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Extruder Operator jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Extruder Operator job openings:

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

Extruder Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Extruder Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,199 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Extruder Operator

Tuffy's Treat Company

Delano, MN • On-site

$25.62/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

2nd Shift

3PM - 1AM (Monday - Thursday)

$24.17/HR + 6% Shift Differential


Our Story

KLN Family Brands is a 3rd generation family-owned business that started in 1964 with its corporate headquarters located in Perham, MN, in the heart of MN lakes country. Together, our companies manufacture a diverse and expanding range of high-quality human and pet food products.

At KLN Family Brands, our vision is that “We are a proud people-first company. We are successful because of trust-based relationships and first-rate products for our families and friends. We better the world by caring for others. We challenge. We grow. We inspire.”

Some companies have to “fudge the story” a little. Some need the extra “spin” to shine a positive light on themselves. That’s not who we are at KLN Family Brands, and that’s not what we do. We tell the story of our brand – our people, the quality of our products, our spirit & moxie, our tradition, and the way we treat our community & beyond. We do it in a genuine way because we genuinely believe we’re a pretty amazing company.

The Opportunity

Extruder Operator

What is an Extruder Operator? An Extruder Operator is the engine behind the pet treat-making process. They operate and optimize extrusion equipment that mixes, cooks, shapes, and cuts ingredients into finished treats. Through careful monitoring and adjustments, they keep the process running efficiently while producing high-quality products that meet safety and quality standards.


RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Duties:

  • Review and follow daily production schedule verifying against their product information sheets for accuracy
  • Communicate with dry ingredient personnel as to which materials should be used for their immediate production needs
  • Coordinate with slurry operators to verify which liquid products are being made
  • Operate the extruder and monitor ancillary equipment to produce products that meet the desired specifications set forth by the Quality Assurance Department
  • Visually inspect and save samples throughout all runs to be taken to the Quality Control Lab for final analysis
  • Responsible to record operation parameters and turn in at the end of each shift
  • Monitor all feed formulas presented to them for color, odor and grind notifying supervisor of anything that looks out of specification
  • Cleaning systems as required between production runs
  • Setting up die plates for each different run and monitoring knife wear
  • Proficient in using batch logic system
  • Able to operate cutters, grillers, ovens and other equipment used in the extrusion department
  • Calibrate process flow monitors prior to each run
  • Daily clean up and sanitation of extruder area
  • Involved in weekly cleaning of extrusion area
  • Notify maintenance of any unusual equipment noises or failures
  • Train new departmental employees
  • Will perform miscellaneous duties as assigned by Supervisor

Additional Responsibilities

  • Cross train in dry ingredient receiving on operation of dry ingredient system
  • Cross train in slurry room

SAFETY

  • Attend safety trainings
  • Follow all safety instructions and policies
  • Report any injuries or near miss accidents to supervisor
  • Report any unsafe acts or conditions to supervisor
  • Wear required PPE that is determined by site


ENVIRONMENTAL

  • Keep work area clean and free of debris


FOOD SAFETY

  • Assist in maintaining all sanitation schedules
  • Attend food safety trainings
  • Follow all GMPs and food safety instructions


JOB QUALIFICATIONS & PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS

  • General mathematical ability
  • Self-motivation
  • Learning, memorizing and executing a sequence of procedures
  • Good hand – eye coordination
  • Willing and able to get along with others
  • Good judgement and reasoning abilities
  • Basic Leadership Skills
  • Can lift up to 80+ pounds
  • Ability to drive a forklift and pass certification exam


Benefits

  • Holiday pay
  • Paid Time Off, with an additional day for your birthday!
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
  • FSA, Medical & Dependent Care
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Pet Insurance
  • 401K with company match