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Extrusion Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Extrusion Engineer

Santa Clara, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Minimum 5 years of extrusion experience. * Demonstrated experience in extrusion, tooling, and machine maintenance and process * Medical device or highly regulated industry manufacturing background

Extruder Operator

Stockton, CA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

Setup extrusion lines producing bubble-wrap film from resin. * Load resin, additives, and blends into hoppers; verify correct material types and ratios. * Complete or assist with roll changes on the ...

Extruder Operator

Stockton, CA

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

Setup extrusion lines producing bubble-wrap film from resin. * Load resin, additives, and blends into hoppers; verify correct material types and ratios. * Complete or assist with roll changes on the ...

Showing results 41-60

Extrusion information

See California salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do extrusion jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for extrusion in California is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is extrusion in manufacturing?

Extrusion is a manufacturing process where material, such as plastic or metal, is pushed through a shaped die to create objects with a fixed cross-sectional profile. This process is commonly used to produce items like pipes, tubing, and sheets. Extrusion allows for continuous production of long pieces with consistent shapes and is valued for its efficiency and versatility in various industries.

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

To thrive as an Extrusion Operator, you need a solid understanding of extrusion machinery, material properties, and quality control, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with industry-specific tools such as extrusion lines, die heads, PLC controls, and measurement gauges is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help operators maintain production quality and address issues quickly. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and consistent manufacturing of products that meet quality and safety standards.

What are the most common challenges faced by extrusion operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Extrusion operators often face challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, managing machine downtime, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Variations in raw material quality or temperature fluctuations can impact the final product, so attention to detail and quick problem-solving are crucial. Effective communication with maintenance teams and adherence to standard operating procedures help mitigate these issues. Continuous training and proactive equipment checks also play a key role in minimizing defects and ensuring smooth production.

What is the difference between Extrusion vs Machinist?

AspectExtrusionMachinist
Primary RoleShaping material by forcing it through a dieManufacturing parts using machine tools
Work EnvironmentFactories, extrusion plantsMachine shops, manufacturing facilities
Required SkillsMaterial handling, die setupBlueprint reading, machine operation
CertificationsOften none, but technical training helpfulMachining certifications often preferred

Extrusion involves shaping materials like metals or plastics by forcing them through a die, primarily used in manufacturing large quantities of uniform profiles. Machinists operate machine tools to create precise parts from metal or other materials. While extrusion focuses on shaping bulk material, machinists refine or produce individual components. Both roles require technical skills, but extrusion emphasizes material handling and die setup, whereas machinists focus on precision machining and blueprint interpretation.

What is an extrusion job?

An extrusion job involves operating machinery that shapes materials such as plastics, metals, or rubber by forcing them through a die to create continuous profiles or products. Workers in this role monitor equipment, ensure quality standards, and may need knowledge of safety procedures and basic maintenance. The job often requires attention to detail and familiarity with extrusion processes and tools.

What are the most commonly searched types of Extrusion jobs in California?

The most popular types of Extrusion jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Extrusion jobs?

Cities in California with the most Extrusion job openings:

Infographic showing various Extrusion job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,694 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Machine Operator (3rd Shift - Extrusion)

AIRTECH INTERNATIONAL INC

Huntington Beach, CA โ€ข On-site

$23 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

ABOUT AIRTECH:

Airtech is a family-owned, community focused, global leader founded in 1973. We are the market leader in materials used in the manufacturing of high-performance composite parts. Our products are used by the aerospace, automotive, marine, green energy, and recreational sports industries to create cutting edge lighter, stronger, and greener components.

JOB SUMMARY:

Airtech is looking for an experienced Extruder Operator to run extrusion equipment used to manufacture high-quality materials for our customers.

This is a hands-on production role that requires prior machine operating experience. The Extruder Operator will be responsible for setting up the machine based on production orders, monitoring the machine while it is running, checking product quality, making adjustments as needed, and labeling and packing finished product.

This position is a good fit for someone who has operated production or manufacturing equipment before, is comfortable working in a hot environment, and can safely wear a respirator when required for machine setup or job duties.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Set up and operate extrusion equipment based on production orders and work instructions.
  • Check equipment controls and safety features before starting production.
  • Monitor the machine during operation to make sure product is running properly.
  • Watch for defects, material issues, or quality concerns during production.
  • Make basic machine adjustments as needed to support product quality and production goals.
  • Collect product samples for quality checks.
  • Label, package, and pack finished product according to work order instructions.
  • Follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
  • Work safely in a hot manufacturing environment.
  • Wear a respirator when required for machine setup or assigned job duties.
  • Follow OSHA safety standards and company safety procedures.
  • Work well with supervisors, leads, and other team members.
  • Perform other tasks and duties as assigned by the supervisor.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Prior machine operating experienceย preferred but not required.
  • Experience operating extrusion, plastics, film, coating, laminating, converting, or similar manufacturing equipment preferred.
  • Must be comfortable working in a hot production environment.
  • Must be able to safely wear a respirator when required.
  • Ability to set up, monitor, and adjust production equipment.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to identify product defects or quality issues.
  • Reliable, safety-minded, and comfortable working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to stand, move, lift up to 70 lbs., pack, and support various production needs throughout the shift.
EDUCATION:ย 
  • High school diploma or equivalent work experience required.

SCHEDULE & SHIFT:

  • Shift: 3rd (11:00 PMย to 7:30 AM)
  • Schedule 3D; 11pm-7:30am; OFF Tue/Wed ; $23.50/hr.ย 
    • Train onย Schedule 3Aย for 3-4 months:ย 11pm-7:30am; OFF Fri/Sat; $23.00/hr.ย ย 

WE HIRE YOU TO RETIRE YOU:

Working for Airtech means being part of a global family that believes in long-term employment and promoting from within, along with personal and professional development. Airtech offers a competitive compensation package which includes medical/dental/vision benefits, paid vacation and holidays, and a company-funded retirement plan. We put safety first to ensure we can all go home to our families after producing the best quality product in the most efficient way possible.

Learn more about us atย www.airtechjobs.com.

Airtech International is committed to equal employment opportunity. We do not discriminate based on an individualโ€™s race, religion, creed, color, sex (including gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, or sexual orientation), age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal law.