Extrusion Operator
What is my day to day like?
As an Extrusion Operator, you play a critical role in supporting continuous manufacturing operations by safely operating, maintaining, and optimizing extrusion equipment to produce high-quality sheet products. This position ensures production efficiency, material accuracy, and compliance with safety, quality, and BRC standards.
The typical day-to-day of this position will include but is not limited to:
- Operate, monitor, and adjust extrusion lines and auxiliary equipment to maintain product specifications, centerline conditions, and production targets.
- Perform start-up, shutdown, and changeover activities, including disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly of extruder components, dies, and related systems.
- Continuously monitor sheet quality, perform measurements and testing (SPC, micing, oven testing), and take corrective action when needed.
- Troubleshoot extrusion, material flow, and equipment issues to minimize downtime and maintain product quality.
- Manage raw material systems including blenders, dryers, hoppers, and silos by setting ratios, calibrating equipment, and monitoring material usage.
- Support material handling processes by ensuring proper flow, cleanliness, and identification of raw materials, blends, and finished goods.
- Maintain equipment cleanliness and perform preventative maintenance tasks in accordance with GMP and AIB standards.
- Operate and support auxiliary systems such as grinders, laminators, and scrap systems when applicable.
- Complete production reporting and system entries (e.g., downtime, material usage, and output) accurately and in real-time.
- Maintain a clean, organized work environment and perform housekeeping duties to prevent contamination.
- Identify, report, and escalate safety, quality, or mechanical issues promptly.
- Work in accordance with all company policies and procedures regarding safety, quality, food safety, and regulatory compliance.
What makes a person successful in this position?
- High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
- 2+ years of experience in extrusion, manufacturing, or industrial operations preferred.
- Working knowledge of extrusion processes, material systems, and auxiliary equipment (blenders, dryers, grinders, etc.).
- Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot equipment and process issues.
- Understanding of SPC, product measurement, and quality control processes.
- Ability to read and interpret production work orders, specifications, and centerline documents.
- Experience working in GMP, food safety, or BRC-regulated environments preferred.
- Basic computer skills for production reporting and system use.
- Strong problem-solving, organizational, and teamwork skills.
- Ability to follow SOPs and work independently with minimal supervision.
- Ability to safely work with tools, machinery, and at heights when required.
What will my schedule be like?
This is a full-time position, working 12-hour shift. This role is fully onsite to support continuous manufacturing operations and requires flexibility to support production demands across shifts.