ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Extrusion Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

ERG

Senior Engineer - Energetics Processing

Indian Head, MD · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Pressing and extrusion of propellants and explosives using mechanical, screw, and ram presses * Machining of propellants and explosives using conventional lathes, mills, saws, and computer numerical ...

ERG

Senior Engineer - Energetics Processing

Indian Head, MD · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Pressing and extrusion of propellants and explosives using mechanical, screw, and ram presses * Machining of propellants and explosives using conventional lathes, mills, saws, and computer numerical ...

ERG

Senior Engineer - Energetics Processing

Indian Head, MD

$112K - $153K/yr

Pressing and extrusion of propellants and explosives using mechanical, screw, and ram presses * Machining of propellants and explosives using conventional lathes, mills, saws, and computer numerical ...

All JobsExtrusion JobsExtrusion Jobs in Washington

Extrusion information

See Washington salary details

$13

$21

$29

How much do extrusion jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for extrusion in Washington is $21.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.52 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 Washington?

The most popular types of Extrusion jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Extrusion jobs in Washington?

For Extrusion jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Extrusion jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Extrusion jobs in Washington are:

Extrusion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Extrusion job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,406 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

R&D Technician / Manager - Rotational Molding Materials

Specialty Powders LLC

Columbia, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description:

Position Summary

Hands-on R&D professional responsible for rotational molding material and product development, supporting new product innovation, customer problem-solving, and commercialization. This role bridges lab development, plant scale-up, and customer application needs.


Key Responsibilities


Product Development & Formulation

  • Develop and optimize roto molding formulations (PE, XLPE, advanced polymers and Special Effects PE)
  • Design materials to meet customer performance requirements
  • Modify formulations using additives, crosslinking systems, and blends
  • Lead new product development from concept to commercialization

Testing & Process Development

  • Operate R&D rotational molding equipment
  • Perform and interpret testing: impact, MFI, density, ESCR, thermal/mechanical
  • Develop test methods, specifications, and validation plans
  • Design and execute DOE to establish processing windows and scale-up correlations

Technical Support

  • Troubleshoot customer processing and performance issues
  • Recommend materials, additives, and process conditions
  • Address issues such as warpage, sintering, brittleness, and durability

Collaboration

  • Work with manufacturing, sales, customers, and leadership
  • Support plant trials, scale-up, and customer development efforts
  • Communicate technical results to diverse stakeholders

Materials Expertise

  • Strong knowledge of Polyethylene (PE) and cross-linkable PE (XLPE)
  • Familiarity with higher-value materials (PA, PC, PP, specialty polymers) preferred


Requirements:

Qualifications

  • BS in Polymer Science, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
  • 5+ years (Technician) / 8–10+ years (Manager) experience in roto molding or plastics
  • Expertise in formulation, processing, and material testing
  • Hands-on experience with R&D and pilot-scale equipment

Preferred

  • Crosslinking systems (e.g., peroxide)
  • DOE and statistical analysis
  • Fuel tanks / regulated applications or similar
  • Scale-up from lab to production environments

Key Skills

  • Problem-solving and analytical capability
  • Strong customer-facing and communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects
  • Commercial and application-focused mindset

Additional Capabilities

  • Powder processing, stabilization, pigmentation, and aesthetics
  • Compounding: extrusion (single/twin screw), blending, feeders
  • Masterbatches, color systems, specialty visual effects
  • Quality systems and qualification processes
  • Lean / Six Sigma mindset (plus)

Travel

  • 10–30% (customers, plants, trials)

Leveling

  • Role may be filled at Technician or Manager level based on experience and leadership scope.