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Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator Jobs in California

IPS Corporation

Plastic Extrusion Supervisor

Fontana, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

... plastic recessed washing machine and ice maker outlet boxes. Since then, we have expanded our ... IPS, through its three operating companies, operates 13 manufacturing plants in the US, Europe and ...

J & L Custom Plastic Extrusions, Inc.

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Machine Operator

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator maintains operations in the production of customer product to be shipped. The ... Clean up the extrusion area at the end of the shift. Company Description J & L Custom Plastic ...

J & L Custom Plastic Extrusions, Inc.

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Machine Operator

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

The Machine Operator maintains operations in the production of customer product to be shipped. The ... Clean up the extrusion area at the end of the shift. Company Description J & L Custom Plastic ...

IPS Corporation

Plastic Extrusion Supervisor

Fontana, CA

$80K - $90K/yr

... plastic recessed washing machine and ice maker outlet boxes. Since then, we have expanded our ... IPS, through its three operating companies, operates 13 manufacturing plants in the US, Europe and ...

TeamQuest Staffing

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Extrusion Technician

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$23/hr

... plastic extrusion manufacturing experience, including extrusion machine operation, set-up/tear-down, purging, and/or roll winding/packaging. Position Summary The Extrusion Production Operator ...

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How much do plastic extrusion machine operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic extrusion machine operator in California is $18.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a plastic extrusion machine operator do?

A Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that melt and form plastic materials into products such as pipes, tubing, and sheets. They monitor the extrusion process, adjust machine settings, inspect finished products for quality, and troubleshoot any issues that arise. Operators must also keep accurate production records and ensure that safety and quality standards are met throughout the manufacturing process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plastic extrusion machine operator?

To thrive as a Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment operation, and quality control, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with extrusion machinery, PLC controls, calipers, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for monitoring production and addressing issues quickly. These competencies ensure efficient machine operation, consistent product quality, and a safe work environment.

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

Plastic Extrusion Machine Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and minimizing material waste. To address these, operators regularly inspect machines, monitor production parameters, and make real-time adjustments. Collaboration with maintenance and quality control teams is essential for quickly resolving issues and ensuring smooth operation. Staying up-to-date with equipment training and standard operating procedures also helps operators manage these challenges effectively.

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

AspectPlastic Extrusion Machine OperatorPlastic Molding Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certifications preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often required
Work EnvironmentFactories with extrusion lines, continuous operationInjection molding or blow molding machines, often in manufacturing plants
Industry UsagePlastic manufacturing, packaging, construction materialsAutomotive, consumer goods, medical devices

Both roles involve working with plastic manufacturing equipment, but Plastic Extrusion Machine Operators focus on continuous extrusion processes, while Plastic Molding Technicians handle molding machines for specific product shapes. The roles share similar credentials and work environments, making them common points of comparison for job seekers in the plastics industry.

What are popular job titles related to Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator jobs in California?

For Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator jobs in California are:

Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,499 per year, or $19 per hour.

Plastic Extrusion Supervisor

IPS Corporation

Fontana, CA • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 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 & 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: $80,000 - $90,000

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