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Overnight Plastic Extruder Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Extruder Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining extruder equipment to produce plastic materials used in packaging. This role includes performing startups, monitoring product ...

Stops extruder at the end of the run and disassembles and cleans the plastic from some or all of the extruder and die parts. * Tends machines and equipment other than extruder lines at times.

Extruder Operator

Putnam, CT · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

To operate in a team environment in the manufacturing of specialty plastic compounds while ... Sets extruder operating parameters according to the manufacturing master reference set-up sheet.

The Extruder Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining extruder equipment to produce plastic materials used in packaging. This role includes performing startups, monitoring product ...

As an extruder operator, you will be responsible to set up, maintain and operate machinery. You ... Loads extruder hopper with plastic granules and color concentrate per job specifications. When ...

As an extruder operator, you will be responsible to set up, maintain and operate machinery. You ... Loads extruder hopper with plastic granules and color concentrate per job specifications. When ...

Extruder Operator

Beaverton, MI · On-site

$18.52 - $26.31/hr

Experienced Plastics Thermoforming Operator Extrusion / Thermoforming We are seeking a skilled and experienced Plastics Thermoforming Operator to join our production team. This role is responsible ...

Extrusion Operators are responsible for the safe operation of plastic extrusion equipment to produce quality product by continual adjustments of gauges that control extruder speed, temperatures ...

Extrusion Operators are responsible for the safe operation of plastic extrusion equipment to produce quality product by continual adjustments of gauges that control extruder speed, temperatures ...

Extruder Operator 1 REPORTS TO: Production Supervisor DEPARTMENT: Production FLSA Status ... Non-Exempt X Exempt COST CENTER: 6721 SUMMARY Operates plastic extrusion machines such as cut-off ...

Extruder Operator 1 REPORTS TO: Production Supervisor DEPARTMENT: Production FLSA Status ... Non-Exempt X Exempt COST CENTER: 6721 SUMMARY Operates plastic extrusion machines such as cut-off ...

Extruder Operator

Beaverton, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $18.25/hr

Experienced Plastics Thermoforming Operator Extrusion / Thermoforming We are seeking a skilled and experienced Plastics Thermoforming Operator to join our production team. This role is responsible ...

Norton area engineering grade plastic fabricator is seeking 2nd shift employees for temp to perm opportunities in machine operator, material handling, blending and drying. Pay is $18-$22/ hour plus ...

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Overnight Plastic Extruder Operator information

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How much do overnight plastic extruder operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for overnight plastic extruder operator in the United States is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an overnight plastic extruder operator do?

An Overnight Plastic Extruder Operator is responsible for running and monitoring machines that shape raw plastic materials into specific forms, such as sheets, pipes, or films, during overnight shifts. Their duties include setting up the extruder, adjusting controls to maintain product quality, performing regular inspections, and troubleshooting issues as they arise. Operators also ensure that safety protocols are followed and may be required to clean and maintain equipment. Working overnight often means limited supervision and greater responsibility for keeping production on track.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an overnight plastic extruder operator?

To thrive as an Overnight Plastic Extruder Operator, you need a solid understanding of extrusion processes, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with extrusion machinery, quality control tools, and basic maintenance procedures is typically required, and some employers may prefer candidates with OSHA safety certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and effective communication are important soft skills that help in managing overnight production and minimizing downtime. These skills ensure consistent product quality, safe operations, and efficient teamwork during overnight shifts.

What are common challenges faced by overnight plastic extruder operators, and how can they be managed?

Overnight Plastic Extruder Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality during long shifts, addressing unexpected machine malfunctions, and staying alert during overnight hours. Managing these challenges requires strong attention to detail, regular monitoring of equipment, and effective communication with team members on other shifts. Staying organized and following established safety and maintenance protocols can help operators prevent issues and ensure a smooth production process throughout the night.

What is the difference between Overnight Plastic Extruder Operator vs Day Plastic Extruder Operator?

AspectOvernight Plastic Extruder OperatorDay Plastic Extruder Operator
Work ShiftTypically overnight or third shiftUsually daytime shifts
CredentialsRelevant certifications, experience in plastic extrusionSame as overnight role, often requiring similar skills
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plant, similar machineryManufacturing plant, same industry setting
Employer UsageCommon in 24-hour production facilitiesStandard in daytime manufacturing operations

The main difference between an Overnight Plastic Extruder Operator and a Day Plastic Extruder Operator lies in their work shifts. Both roles require similar skills, certifications, and work in the same environment, but the overnight role covers night hours, often to ensure continuous production. Employers may assign these roles based on operational needs, with both positions being essential for maintaining manufacturing efficiency around the clock.

What cities are hiring for Overnight Plastic Extruder Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Overnight Plastic Extruder Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Plastic Extruder Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Plastic Extruder Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Overnight Plastic Extruder Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Overnight Plastic Extruder Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Overnight Plastic Extruder Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,207 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

PM EXTRUDER OPERATOR

Hickman's Family Farms

Avondale, AZ • On-site

$18.39/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Hickman's Family Farms rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 65 rated farming


Job description

Job Summary:
The Extruder Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining extruder equipment to produce plastic materials used in packaging. This role includes performing startups, monitoring product quality, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance on high-speed extrusion equipment. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and capable of working independently in a fast-paced production environment, supporting Hickman's commitment to efficient and quality packaging production.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Operate and monitor extruder equipment, ensuring consistent flow and quality of extruded plastic material.
  • Perform equipment startups, calibrations, and shutdowns according to standard operating procedures.
  • Build pallets of finished products and ensure proper labeling and storage.
  • Utilize the HMI (Human-Machine Interface) for machine controls, making minor adjustments to optimize production.
  • Regularly inspect product quality, check for defects or overfilling, and take corrective action as needed.
  • Monitor coil levels and refill as necessary to prevent machine stoppages or collisions.
  • Obtain forklift and pallet jack OSHA certification; assist with moving raw materials and finished products as required.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area, following all safety and GMP protocols.
  • Assist maintenance team in troubleshooting and repairing machinery when technical issues arise.

Resumen del Puesto:
El Operador de Extrusora es responsable de operar y mantener el equipo de extrusión para producir materiales plásticos utilizados en el empaque. Este puesto incluye realizar arranques, monitorear la calidad del producto, resolver problemas y realizar mantenimiento rutinario en equipos de extrusión de alta velocidad. El candidato ideal es detallista, consciente de la seguridad y capaz de trabajar de manera independiente en un entorno de producción de ritmo rápido, apoyando el compromiso de Hickman's con una producción de empaque eficiente y de alta calidad.
Funciones y Responsabilidades:
  • Operar y monitorear el equipo de extrusión, asegurando un flujo constante y calidad uniforme del material plástico extruido.
  • Realizar arranques, calibraciones y apagados del equipo según los procedimientos operativos estándar.
  • Armar tarimas con los productos terminados y asegurar el etiquetado y almacenamiento adecuados.
  • Utilizar la interfaz HMI (Interfaz Humano-Máquina) para controlar la máquina, haciendo ajustes menores para optimizar la producción.
  • Inspeccionar regularmente la calidad del producto, verificar defectos o sobrellenado, y tomar acciones correctivas cuando sea necesario.
  • Monitorear los niveles de bobina y rellenar según sea necesario para evitar paros o colisiones en la máquina.
  • Obtener la certificación OSHA para el uso de montacargas y patines hidráulicos; asistir en el movimiento de materiales y productos terminados cuando se requiera.
  • Mantener un área de trabajo limpio y organizada, siguiendo todos los protocolos de seguridad y Buenas Prácticas de Manufactura (GMP).
  • Apoyar al equipo de mantenimiento en la resolución de problemas y reparación del equipo cuando surjan fallas técnicas.

Required Skills and Abilities:
  • High school diploma or equivalent; technical training in manufacturing or related field preferred.
  • Previous experience in manufacturing, especially with extrusion or thermal forming equipment.
  • Basic understanding of HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems and ability to make machine adjustments.
  • Forklift and pallet jack certification, or willingness to obtain certification.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality control and product standards.
  • Ability to follow safety protocols and maintain a safe work environment.
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality to meet production schedules.

Education and Experience:
  • No specific education requirement listed
  • Prior food production or processing experience preferred, but not required

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to stand, walk, squat, bend, and lift for extended periods.
  • Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise and machinery.
  • Ability to frequently lift and move items up to 50 pounds.

Work Schedule:
  • This position begins with daytime hours for training. Upon successful completion of training, the employee will transition to a PM (evening/night) shift. During the training period, the employee will learn the necessary skills and responsibilities, and once fully trained, will be expected to work in the PM shift as the primary role.

Habilidades y Capacidades Requeridas:
  • Diploma de preparatoria o equivalente; se prefiere capacitación técnica en manufactura o campo relacionado.
  • Experiencia previa en manufactura, especialmente con equipos de extrusión o termoformado.
  • Conocimientos básicos de sistemas HMI (Interfaz Humano-Máquina) y habilidad para hacer ajustes al equipo.
  • Certificación en montacargas y patín hidráulico, o disposición para obtenerla.
  • Gran atención al detalle y compromiso con el control de calidad y los estándares del producto.
  • Capacidad para seguir protocolos de seguridad y mantener un entorno de trabajo seguro.
  • Asistencia y puntualidad confiables para cumplir con los horarios de producción.

Educación y Experiencia:
  • No se requiere educación específica.
  • Se prefiere experiencia previa en producción o procesamiento de alimentos, pero no es obligatoria.

Requisitos Físicos:
  • Capacidad para estar de parado, caminar, agacharse, doblarse y levantar objetos por períodos prolongados.
  • Comodidad trabajando en un entorno de manufactura con exposición a ruido y maquinaria.
  • Capacidad para levantar y mover objetos que pesen hasta 50 libras con frecuencia.

Horario de Trabajo:
Este puesto comienza con un horario diurno durante el período de capacitación. Al completar con éxito la capacitación, el empleado pasará a un turno PM (vespertino/nocturno). Durante la capacitación, el empleado aprenderá las habilidades y responsabilidades necesarias, y una vez completamente capacitado, trabajará en el turno PM como función principal.

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