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Plastic Extrusion Line Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Barilla Group

... processing line according to Barilla specifications. The operator is responsible for automated mixing, die selection/installation, extrusion, cutting, and drying. $27.83 (includes 10% shift ...

KSI

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Dyersville, IA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

As the only plastic resin compounder in Iowa specializing in engineered thermoplastics, JEDA ... Extrusion Machine Operators--setting up, calibrating, and operating extruders and auxiliary ...

KSI

Machine Operator (2nd Shift)

Dyersville, IA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

As the only plastic resin compounder in Iowa specializing in engineered thermoplastics, JEDA ... Extrusion Machine Operators-setting up, calibrating, and operating extruders and auxiliary ...

JM Eagle

Extruder Operator

Wilton, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

The Extruder Operator is responsible for operating extrusion lines to manufacture pipe in ... line checks and notify the Supervisor of any changes. • Operate a forklift to move finished ...

JM Eagle

Extruder Operator

Wilton, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

The Extruder Operator is responsible for operating extrusion lines to manufacture pipe in ... line checks and notify the Supervisor of any changes. • Operate a forklift to move finished ...

Amcor

Machine Operator - Nights - 6:45pm - 7am

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Job purpose The Extrusion Machine Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring extrusion ... In-line bag machines to set film dimensions and characteristics. * Winders to control film ...

Amcor

Machine Operator - Days - 6:45am to 7pm

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Job purpose The Extrusion Machine Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring extrusion ... In-line bag machines to set film dimensions and characteristics. * Winders to control film ...

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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 Iowa are hiring for Plastic Extrusion Line Operator jobs?

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

Plastic Extrusion Line Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Extrusion Line Operator job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Processing Operator (Nights) - Ames, IA

Barilla Group
See more jobs at Barilla Groupexternal

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Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

About Barilla

At Barilla, we believe that every great journey begins with passion and a bold vision. From our humble beginnings in 1877 in a small shop in Parma, Italy, we've blossomed into a global leader in the food industry, guided by our commitment to progress and excellence.

Today, Barilla is an international group present in more than 100 countries and we are proud to be recognized as the world's top food company by reputation. With 20 beloved brands in our portfolio, we are world leader for pasta, the number one choice for ready-made sauces in Europe, leader for bakery products in Italy, and for crispbread across Scandinavia with Wasa.

Our success story is written by a passionate team of 9,000 dedicated employees across 30 plants and offices worldwide, all united by a shared mission to nourish the future with purpose and passion.

Do you have a love for pasta and a knack for attention to detail?  We are looking for dedicated individuals to join our pasta packaging team.  If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and contribute to the creation of top-quality pasta products, we want you!

Processing Operators during their shift are primarily responsible for operating one processing line according to Barilla specifications. The operator is responsible for automated mixing, die selection/installation, extrusion, cutting, and drying. 

$27.83 (includes 10% shift differential) for the night shift.

Processing Operators work only half the days in a month, as they work a flexible (2-2-3) shift pattern.  Applicants must be available to work every other weekend as part of their regular schedule.

 As a team member at Barilla, you'll enjoy:

  • Healthcare, dental, and vision - 1st of the month after hire

  • 401k match up to 6%

  • Company paid life insurance

  • Wellness Subsidy

  • Pay for Skills Program

  • Flexible work schedule

  • Tuition Reimbursement

  • Disability Insurance

  • Adoption Assistance

 Education and Experience:

  • Previous work experience in production or food manufacturing and a general working knowledge of computers is required.

  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes and good manufacturing practices (GMP's) preferred.

  • Knowledge of food safety, HACCP, and appropriate supporting programs (e.g., cleaning, sanitation, pest management, etc.) is a plus.

 Diverse candidates and veterans encouraged to apply.

Barilla is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of Barilla to prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type and to afford equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard  characteristics including, but not limited to, age, race, color, culture, ethnicity, nationality, faith, religion, gender, pregnancy, family status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, veteran or protected veteran status, political opinions, health or disability. 

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