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Extruder Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

LF Extruder Operator 3rd

Little Falls, MN ยท On-site

$22.50 - $26/hr

Setup, Operation of, and cleaning of the extruder used for petfood production. * Inspection of product to make sure it is meeting customer specifications, density, and size. * Operation of dryer and ...

Extrusion Operator

Clara City, MN ยท On-site

$22 - $31/hr

Extruder Operators Requirements: * Can do basic mathematics, is mechanically inclined and comfortable with hand tools. * Previous food/animal feed extrusion experience preferred. * Exposure in a ...

Extrusion Operator

Clara City, MN ยท On-site

$22 - $31/hr

Start- up, run, troubleshoot, shutdown and clean the extruder machine. * Coordinate production runs with Supervisor to ensure orders are completed on time. * Monitor and record the salt, caustic ...

New

Extruder Operator

New Hope, MN ยท 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 ...

Responsible for uptime and running of production extruder lines. * Produces quality product in a timely manner. * Obtains the correct documentation for the run. * Ensures the correct ingredients are ...

Dry Packaging Operator

Perham, MN ยท On-site

$23.44/hr

Communicate with Extruder Operators on product times and bin space * Starting and setting up all required equipment for production * Controlling packaging materials, code dates, expiration dates ...

POSITION SUMMARY To maintain the continual operation of the Extruder while adhering to all OSHA standards, safety standards and quality standards applicable according to Balchem Corporations Policies.

POSITION SUMMARY To maintain the continual operation of the Extruder while adhering to all OSHA standards, safety standards and quality standards applicable according to Balchem Corporation ...

Production Supervisor

Brainerd, MN ยท On-site

$29.50 - $31/hr

Your typical schedule will be Monday through Friday from 10PM to 6:30 AM (+$3.00 SHIFT DIFFERENTIAL)Help assemble, calibrate, operate, and monitor extruder and all auxiliary equipment (pumps, micro ...

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Extruder information

See Minnesota salary details

$16

$18

$19

How much do extruder jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for extruder in Minnesota is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an extruder?

As an extruder, you operate specialized machinery used in the manufacture of thermoplastic materials, used in turn for purposes like car and plane manufacture. Your duties include mixing materials, inputting settings, and ensuring a safe and successful extrusion process. You also perform routine maintenance on equipment, and report any mechanical degradation or breakage, especially where it may affect safe operation. A career as an extruder does not require you have formal qualifications or a college degree, but you should have a high school diploma or GED certificate, mechanical aptitude, and a strong eye for detail. Skills and experience gained at a trade school or vocational program will set you ahead of other candidates and help you gather professional contacts.

What does an extruder do?

An extruder operates machines that shape materials such as plastic, metal, or food by forcing them through a shaped die to create products of a specific size and shape. Their responsibilities include setting up, monitoring, and adjusting the extruding machines to ensure quality and efficiency. Extruders also inspect finished products, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot any issues that arise during the process. This role is commonly found in manufacturing industries, especially in plastics and food production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an extruder, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Extruder, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with experience in manufacturing or plastics processing. Familiarity with extrusion machinery, quality control systems, and safety protocols is typically required, and some employers may prefer certifications in industrial operations. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you adapt to production changes and maintain high standards. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and high-quality output in extrusion manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges faced by extruders in a manufacturing setting, and how can they be addressed?

Extruders often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting machine malfunctions, and managing raw material variations. To address these issues, it's important to closely monitor process parameters, perform regular equipment maintenance, and communicate frequently with quality control and maintenance teams. Developing strong problem-solving skills and staying up-to-date with standard operating procedures can also help extruders overcome these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Extruder vs Molder?

AspectExtruderMolder
Primary FunctionShapes materials by forcing them through a dieForms objects by pouring or pressing material into molds
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plantsFactories, manufacturing plants
CertificationsMachine operation, safety trainingMachine operation, safety training
Industry UsagePlastic, metal, food processingPlastic, metal, rubber industries

Both extruders and molders work in manufacturing environments and often require similar certifications. While extruders shape materials by forcing them through dies, molders form objects by pouring or pressing materials into molds. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role within manufacturing industries.

Infographic showing various Extruder job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $38,686 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

LF Extruder Operator 3rd

Barrett Petfood

Little Falls, MN โ€ข On-site

$22.50 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

medical insurance 100% on Us!

Great careers start with great benefits!

Join the Barrett Petfood family and enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical (company paid), dental, and vision insurance; a 401(k) with company match; life insurance; health savings account; paid time off; seven paid holidays; employee discounts; complimentary pet food; and fun, company-sponsored events.

apply today!

Join Barrett Petfood as a Full-Time Skilled Operator and dive into an exciting onsite role in Little Falls, Minnesota! Here, you will be part of a dynamic team that prioritizes innovation and customer-centric solutions. With a focus on high performance and safety, you'll engage in hands-on work that directly contributes to creating quality pet food products. Enjoy competitive pay ranging from $22.50 to $26ย per hour (+$3 shift differential)ย as you develop your skills in a fun and collaborative environment. This is your chance to solve real problems while working alongside passionate individuals who share your dedication to excellence.

Take the opportunity to grow your career in a place that values integrity and creativity. Apply today and unleash your potential with Barrett Petfood!

What would you do as a Skilled Operator

As a new Skilled Operator at Barrett Petfood, you can expect a fast-paced and engaging work environment focused on quality and efficiency. Each day, you will operate and maintain various manufacturing equipment, ensuring that production processes run smoothly. You will be responsible for monitoring machinery, conducting inspections, and troubleshooting any issues that arise. Collaboration with your team will be key, as you work together to meet daily production goals while maintaining a customer-centric focus. Your schedule will be Monday through Friday, from 10:00pm-6:30am.

Day to day responsibilities
  • Day-to-day operation of the plant
  • Work with the Meat Room and Mill to ensure product meets specifications.
  • Setup, Operation of, and cleaning of the extruder used for petfood production.
  • Inspection of product to make sure it is meeting customer specifications, density, and size.
  • Operation of dryer and testing of kibble.
  • Operations of the Vertical Cooler, mixing and adding paletants to kibble.
  • Troubleshoot equipment to ensure product is within specifications.
  • Clean under and around plant machinery

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Prolonged periods of standing and walking through the factory.
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds at times.

Prepare to engage in problem-solving activities that enhance operational efficiency and safety, making a tangible impact on the pet food manufacturing process.

Requirements for this Skilled Operator job

To be successful as a Skilled Operator at Barrett Petfood, candidates should possess a strong foundation in mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills. Effective communication is essential, as you will need to collaborate closely with team members to ensure smooth operations and resolve any issues that arise. Attention to detail is crucial; you'll be monitoring equipment and quality standards throughout the production process. A proactive approach to problem-solving will help you navigate daily challenges and implement continuous improvements. Time management and the ability to work efficiently under pressure will also contribute to your success in meeting production targets.

Additionally, a commitment to safety and a customer-centric mindset will enhance your ability to contribute positively to the company culture and ensure the highest quality pet food products leave our facility.

Will you join our team?

So, what do you think? If you feel this is the right job for you, go ahead and apply! We look forward to meeting you!


NOTICE - BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION

Barrett Petfood is committed to a safe workplace for all of our employees.

In connection with your employment with the Company, notice is hereby given that a
consumer report and/or investigative consumer report may be obtained from a
consumer reporting agency for employment purposes. These reports may contain
information about your character, general reputation, personal characteristics and mode
of living, whichever are applicable. They may involve personal interviews with sources
such as your neighbors, friends or associates. The reports may also contain information
about you relating to your criminal history, credit history, driving and/or motor vehicle
records, education or employment history or other background checks.
You have the right, upon written request made within a reasonable time after the receipt
of this notice, to request disclosure of the nature and scope of any investigative
consumer report. The scope of this notice and authorization is not limited to the present
and, if you are hired, will continue throughout the course of your employment and allow
the Company to conduct future screenings for retention, promotion or reassignment, as
permitted by law unless revoked by you in writing.