1

Extrusion Line Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Foam Operator 1 - Days

Hopkinsville, KY · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

PE Foam Extrusion Line Operator - 2-2-3, 12 hour day shift Position Summary The PE Foam Extrusion Line Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining polyethylene (PE) foam ...

Foam Operator I - Nights

Hopkinsville, KY · On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

PE Foam Extrusion Line Operator - 2-2-3 12 hour night shift Position Summary The PE Foam Extrusion Line Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining polyethylene (PE) foam ...

Extrusion Operator 1 Reports To: Production Supervisor Direct reports: n/a Key relationships ... Run extrusion line(s) for a whole day or part of a day * Bring compound to extruder and compound ...

New

This hands-on role operates and owns a vinyl siding extrusion line, playing a key part in producing ... dies, and safely operating the extrusion machinery. * Start up extrusion lines and ensure ...

PS Extrusion Operator

Hebron, OH · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

To perform tasks necessary to efficiently control the operation of extrusion line from raw material input to finished product. Job Duties: * Maintains a clean and orderly work area/warehouse

Be Seen First

Extrusion Technician

Athens, GA · On-site

$45K - $45K/yr

Extrusion Technician We are seeking a qualified, experienced Polymer Extrusion Line Technician. You ... Operating the production line. Maintaining records of activities in the form of job reports.

Line Operator

Fairmont, MN · On-site

$22.75/hr

Manages a plastic extrusion line to ensure finished goods meet quality specifications that meet customer needs * Utilizes standard operating procedures to ensure the production line is running with ...

Showing results 41-60

Extrusion Line Operator information

See salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do extrusion line operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for extrusion line operator in the United States is $19.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Extrusion Line Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with extrusion machinery, quality control tools, and safety protocols, as well as experience using measurement systems like calipers and micrometers, is important. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help operators maintain production quality and address issues quickly. These skills are critical for ensuring efficient, safe operations and producing high-quality products that meet specifications.

Is extrusion line operator a good job?

An extrusion line operator is responsible for operating and maintaining machinery that shapes materials like plastics or metals. The job typically offers steady employment, requires attention to safety protocols, and may involve shift work. It can be a good entry-level position for those interested in manufacturing and industrial processes.

What are some common challenges faced by extrusion line operators and how can they be addressed?

Extrusion Line Operators often face challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and managing the pace of production to meet deadlines. Addressing these challenges typically involves strong attention to detail, proactive maintenance, and effective communication with maintenance and quality assurance teams. Operators can benefit from ongoing training in equipment operation and process optimization, which helps them quickly identify issues and minimize downtime. Building good teamwork and staying up-to-date on safety protocols also contribute to smoother daily operations.

What is an extrusion line operator?

Extrusion Line Operators are skilled workers responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery that shapes raw materials—such as plastic, metal, or rubber—into specific forms using the extrusion process. They monitor equipment, adjust controls, and ensure the quality of finished products throughout the production run. Their duties often include troubleshooting issues, performing routine maintenance, and adhering to safety standards. Extrusion Line Operators play a crucial role in manufacturing industries, helping produce items like pipes, sheets, and profiles.

What is the difference between Extrusion Line Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectExtrusion Line OperatorMachine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plant, production lineManufacturing or industrial setting
Industry UsagePlastic, metal, or rubber extrusion industriesVarious manufacturing sectors
Job FocusOperating extrusion machinery to produce continuous profilesOperating various types of manufacturing equipment

While both roles involve operating machinery in a manufacturing setting, an Extrusion Line Operator specializes in running extrusion equipment to produce specific profiles, whereas a Machine Operator may handle a broader range of machinery across different manufacturing processes.

What states have the most Extrusion Line Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Extrusion Line Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Extrusion Line Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,023 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Foam Operator 1 - Days

Pregis

Hopkinsville, KY • On-site

$17 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Pregis rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

73rd of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

We're Not Just in the Packaging Business-We're in the "Wow" Business
Pregis is Hiring!
Why Join Pregis?
Pregis is in the packaging business to protect what matters. We are committed to providing our customers and employees sustainable growth through purpose-driven innovation and customer-centric packaging solutions. If you are looking for a company that is thriving across various high growth industries and is innovative, customer focused, high integrity, believes in strong teamwork and collaboration, Pregis is the company for you. Check out the Pregis Purpose to learn how sustainability and social responsibility is at the very core of our company DNA.
Job Description: PE Foam Extrusion Line Operator - 2-2-3, 12 hour day shift
Position Summary
The PE Foam Extrusion Line Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining polyethylene (PE) foam extrusion equipment to produce high-quality foam products in compliance with company specifications and safety standards. This role requires strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot process and equipment issues specific to PE foam production.
Key Responsibilities
  • Set up and operate PE foam extrusion lines, including extruders, dies, cooling systems, and downstream equipment
  • Monitor and adjust process parameters such as temperature profiles, pressure, blowing agents, screw speed, and line speed
  • Perform product changeovers, start-ups, and shutdowns efficiently for various PE foam products
  • Inspect finished foam for density, thickness, cell structure, and surface quality to meet specifications
  • Troubleshoot quality issues such as shrinkage, collapse, uneven cell structure, or surface defects
  • Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and die conditioning to ensure optimal extrusion performance
  • Accurately complete production records, batch logs, and quality documentation
  • Follow safety procedures for handling heated materials, pressurized systems, and blowing agents
  • Coordinate with maintenance, quality, and production teams to optimize uptime and efficiency
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment

Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Experience in extrusion or plastics manufacturing preferred
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to read and understand work instructions, specifications, and SOPs
  • Basic math skills for measurements and production calculations
  • Ability to safely operate manufacturing equipment
  • Willingness to work in a fast-paced production environment

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with polyethylene (PE) foam extrusion
  • Familiarity with blowing agents and foam expansion processes
  • Experience with PLC/HMI control systems
  • Forklift certification (or willingness to obtain)
  • Lean manufacturing or continuous improvement experience

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand for extended periods
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Comfortable working in a hot, noisy manufacturing environment
  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination

Work Environment
Manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, noise, moving machinery, and chemical blowing agents. Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Key Competencies
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem-solving and troubleshooting
  • Teamwork and communication
  • Reliability and time management
  • Strong safety focus

#RTU1
Diversity and Inclusion
We believe in diversity of thought and bringing together other traits and characteristics that make an individual bring a unique experience to Pregis. We strive to foster an inclusive environment where behaviors and social norms ensure people are welcome.
Affirmative Action/EEO Statement/Inclusion
We offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We support inclusion and believe in welcoming a collective sum of individual differences, thoughts, traits, and characteristics to represent Pregis' culture and achievements.
Visit us at www.pregis.com for more information about Pregis LLC.

What Pregis employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Pregis logo

About Pregis

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics packaging film and sheet (including laminated) manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Deerfield, IL, US

Year founded

2005

Social media