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Plastic Extrusion Line Operator Jobs in California

IPS, through its three operating companies, operates 13 manufacturing plants in the US, Europe and ... Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs): line efficiency, scrap rate, uptime, throughput ...

IPS, through its three operating companies, operates 13 manufacturing plants in the US, Europe and ... Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs): line efficiency, scrap rate, uptime, throughput ...

Plastic Extrusion Supervisor

Fontana, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

IPS, through its three operating companies, operates 13 manufacturing plants in the US, Europe and ... Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs): line efficiency, scrap rate, uptime, throughput ...

Direct 3-8 operators, manage the run schedule to hit output and scrap targets, lead difficult ... in plastic extrusion with 1-2 years leading others; * PVC pipe experience strongly preferred

Extrusion Operator

Fontana, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Extrusion Operator Location: Fontana, CA Shift: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM About the Company: IPS ... Weld-On products are globally recognized as the premium products for joining plastic pipes and ...

PrideStaff is looking for experienced Plastic Pipe Extrusion Operators for a manufacturing company ... the line clean and safe. * Other duties as assigned Qualifications Include the Following: * 1-3 ...

Extrusion Technician

Fontana, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Proven experience operating plastics extrusion machinery in a manufacturing environment. * Strong mechanical knowledge with familiarity in machining processes such as CNC lathe work and fabrication ...

Extrusion Operator

Modesto, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

PrideStaff is looking for experienced Plastic Pipe Extrusion Operators for a manufacturing company ... the line clean and safe. * Other duties as assigned Qualifications Include the Following: * 1-3 ...

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Production Machine Operator

Fresno, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.59/hr

Responsible for monitoring production on the assigned extrusion line * Perform continuous checks ... Wrap and label finished coils with plastic stretch wrap. Stack 16 coils per pallet for TW and 20 ...

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Plastic Extrusion Line Operator information

What does a plastic extrusion line operator do?

A Plastic Extrusion Line Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery that shapes plastic materials into products such as tubing, sheets, or custom profiles. They monitor the extrusion process to ensure quality and consistency, adjust machine settings as needed, and inspect finished products for defects. Operators also handle raw materials, troubleshoot equipment issues, and maintain safety and cleanliness standards in the production area.

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

To thrive as a Plastic Extrusion Line Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring prior manufacturing experience. Familiarity with extrusion machinery, quality control instruments, and safety protocols is essential, and some roles may require forklift certification. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators excel in troubleshooting and maintaining production efficiency. These competencies ensure safe operations, consistent product quality, and minimized downtime in a manufacturing environment.

What are some common challenges faced by plastic extrusion line operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Plastic Extrusion Line Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and managing raw material changes. To address these, operators must stay attentive to machine settings, regularly inspect product output for defects, and perform preventative maintenance. Collaborating closely with maintenance technicians and quality control teams is essential for quickly resolving issues and minimizing downtime. Continuous learning about new materials and machine technologies also helps operators adapt and excel in this fast-paced environment.

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

AspectPlastic Extrusion Line OperatorPlastic Molding Machine Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, continuous operationManufacturing plants, batch processing
Industry UsagePlastic extrusion, tubing, pipingInjection molding, parts manufacturing
Job FocusOperating extrusion lines to produce continuous plastic profilesOperating molding machines to produce plastic parts

The main difference is that Plastic Extrusion Line Operators focus on continuous extrusion processes for products like pipes and sheets, while Plastic Molding Machine Operators work with injection molding machines to produce specific plastic parts. Both roles require similar skills and work environments but serve different manufacturing needs.

What cities in California are hiring for Plastic Extrusion Line Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Plastic Extrusion Line Operator job openings:

Plastic Extrusion Supervisor

Fontana, CA

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Plastic Extrusion Supervisor
Location: Fontana, CA

About the Company:
IPS Corporation is a global, market-leading provider of Water and Flow Management Solutions and Specialty Adhesives Solutions for applications where failure is not an option. Founded in 1954 in Los Angeles, CA, IPS began by producing clear cements for laminating acrylic sheet for aircraft canopies. We were first to produce reliable cement for use with PVC, CPVC, and ABS pipe and fittings, and first to introduce plastic recessed washing machine and ice maker outlet boxes. Since then, we have expanded our offering to more than 10,000+ products and solutions across multiple fast-growth industries such as residential and commercial construction, irrigation, pool amp; spa, marine or industrial manufacturing.
Today our industry leading products are proudly manufactured at facilities throughout the world and available through a nationwide network of customer-focused distributors. We offer premium brands, world-class customer service, seamless processes, and a global supply chain. IPS, through its three operating companies, operates 13 manufacturing plants in the US, Europe and China supporting sales to over 85 countries.
IPS Corporation is a portfolio company that is part of Centerbridge Partners. Centerbridge Partners, L.P. is a private investment management firm employing a flexible approach across investment disciplines — private equity, private credit and real estate — in an effort to develop the most attractive opportunities for its investors. The Firm was founded in 2005 and has approximately $36 billion in capital under management with offices in New York and London. Centerbridge is dedicated to partnering with world-class management teams across targeted industry sectors and geographies. For more information, please visit www.centerbridge.com.
About the Role:
The Plastic Extrusion Supervisor is responsible for overseeing daily extrusion operations, ensuring consistent product quality, meeting production targets, optimizing line efficiency, and maintaining a safe working environment. This role demands strong technical knowledge of plastic extrusion processes combined with proven leadership skills.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Directly supervise, train, and mentor a team of extrusion operators, technicians, and material handlers (typically 6–12 direct reports).
  • Oversee daily production schedules across multiple extrusion lines to ensure on-time delivery of high-quality products.
  • Monitor and optimize extrusion processes, including melt temperature, screw speed, haul-off speed, cooling, and dimensional control.
  • Troubleshoot common extrusion issues such as dimensional variations, surface defects, melt fracture, surging, and die swell.
  • Manage setup, changeovers, and startup/shutdown procedures for extruders and downstream equipment.
  • Work closely with Quality, Engineering, and Maintenance teams to resolve process and quality concerns.
  • Enforce all safety policies and procedures (OSHA compliance, lockout/tagout, PPE, machine guarding) and lead safety meetings.
  • Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs): line efficiency, scrap rate, uptime, throughput, and OEE.
  • Control raw material usage (resins, additives, colorants) and minimize waste.
  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and Kaizen methodologies.
  • Conduct employee performance reviews, coaching, disciplinary actions, and participate in hiring decisions.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, ISO/QMS standards, and all regulatory requirements.
Required Qualifications
  • Minimum 5+ years of hands-on experience in plastic extrusion, with at least 2–3 years in a supervisory or lead role.
  • Strong technical knowledge of single-screw and twin-screw extruders, dies, calibrators, haul-offs, cutters, winders, and auxiliary equipment.
  • Experience with a variety of polymers including HDPE, LDPE, PP, PVC, ABS, PC, and engineering resins.
  • Proven ability to troubleshoot extrusion defects and optimize process parameters for consistent quality and output.
  • Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement tools.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and ERP/MRP systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and process specifications.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and basic ERP/MRP systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and work instructions.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Formal training in extrusion technology (e.g., Paulson, Rauwendaal, or equivalent).
  • Experience with profile extrusion, pipe/tubing, sheet, film, or compounding.
  • Knowledge of die design, maintenance, and repair.
  • Experience with statistical process control (SPC) and quality systems.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand for long periods, walk production floor, and climb stairs/ladders as needed.
  • Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs occasionally.
  • Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with noise, heat, and moving machinery.
  • Willingness to work flexible shifts, including overtime, nights, and weekends when required.
Salary Range: $90,000 - $120,000