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Plastic Extrusion Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Extrusion Operator- Nights

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

... plastic resin into rolls of plastic and ensure adequate materials are available for production. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES * Set up and/or operate equipment (Extruder, vacuum pumps, material blenders ...

Line Operator

Buena Vista, VA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Manages a plastic extrusion line to ensure finished goods meet quality specifications that meet customer needs * Utilizes standard operating procedures to ensure the production line is running with ...

Line Operator

Buena Vista, VA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Manages a plastic extrusion line to ensure finished goods meet quality specifications that meet customer needs * Utilizes standard operating procedures to ensure the production line is running with ...

Manages a plastic extrusion line to ensure finished goods meet quality specifications that meet customer needs * Utilizes standard operating procedures to ensure the production line is running with ...

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Plastic Extrusion Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do plastic extrusion operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic extrusion operator in Virginia is $18.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $21.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is extrusion operator a skilled job?

Yes, a plastic extrusion operator is considered a skilled worker who operates and monitors extrusion machinery, ensuring quality and safety standards are met. The role often requires knowledge of equipment, troubleshooting skills, and sometimes certifications in safety or machinery operation.

Is extrusion operator a good job?

A plastic extrusion operator is responsible for operating machinery that produces plastic products, often requiring attention to safety protocols and quality control. The job typically offers steady employment, with opportunities for overtime and skill development, but may involve repetitive tasks and exposure to noise and fumes. It can be a stable entry-level position in manufacturing with potential for advancement.

What is an extrusion operator's salary?

The average salary for a plastic extrusion operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the machinery operated. Skilled operators with certifications and experience in setting up and maintaining extrusion equipment may earn higher wages and benefits. Overtime and shift differentials can also impact overall compensation.

What does a plastic extrusion operator do?

A plastic extrusion operator operates machinery that melts and shapes plastic materials into continuous profiles such as pipes, sheets, or films. They set up, monitor, and adjust extrusion equipment, ensure product quality, and follow safety procedures, often working with tools like calipers and gauges. The role typically requires attention to detail and may involve certifications in safety or machinery operation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Plastic Extrusion Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plastic Extrusion Operator, you need a solid understanding of extrusion machinery, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with calibration tools, micrometers, and computerized control systems is common, with some employers preferring candidates who have completed manufacturing safety or plastics processing certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and strong teamwork are valuable soft skills in this role. These qualifications are crucial for ensuring efficient production runs, maintaining high quality standards, and working safely in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What does a typical workday look like for a Plastic Extrusion Operator?

A typical day for a Plastic Extrusion Operator involves setting up and adjusting extrusion machines, monitoring production processes, and performing quality checks on finished products. Operators often collaborate with maintenance technicians, quality control inspectors, and shift supervisors to resolve any issues that arise during production. The role can be physically demanding and may require standing for long periods and working in shifts, including nights or weekends. Over time, experienced operators may advance to supervisory or lead technician roles, offering opportunities for career growth within the manufacturing industry.

What is a Plastic Extrusion Operator job?

A Plastic Extrusion Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machines that heat and form plastic materials into continuous shapes such as tubing, sheets, or profiles. They monitor production for quality, adjust machine settings, and troubleshoot issues to ensure efficient operation. Operators also inspect finished products, maintain safety standards, and perform routine maintenance on equipment. This role requires attention to detail, mechanical skills, and knowledge of plastic materials and extrusion processes.

What are popular job titles related to Plastic Extrusion Operator jobs in VA? For Plastic Extrusion Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Plastic Extrusion Operator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, 4% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,871 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Extrusion Operator - Recycling

$16 - $20.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Monoflo International rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

102nd of 119 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Description

The Extrusion Operator maintains plastic recycling equipment in accordance with established process parameters. The Operator makes minor process adjustments to ensure utilization and efficiency targets are achieved. Achieving targets requires an understanding of the recycling system as a complete unit, from material infeed, through shredding, to the weigh scales. The Operator is expected to perform basic system maintenance such as screen filter changes, air filter cleaning, water basin cleaning, knife changes, and garbage removal while providing frequent oversight of the equipment to verify it is running at optimal performance. Delivering scrap material for sorting and maintaining a steady feed stream to the shredder are critical to the throughput of the system. Recycling requires consistent space coordination and cleanliness to operate effectively and safely. Operators are actively engaged in maintaining facility cleanliness during the shift.


  Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Produce reprocessed material that meets quality standards, efficiency and utilization targets, to be consumed in the injection molding facility
  • Complete required process documentation and audits to monitor and maintain a stable process
  • Participate in material feedstock sorting, rework, and infeed process to the Shredders
  • Perform extrusion process adjustments to maintain the production of quality reprocessed material
  • Complete the proper start up and shut down of each piece of equipment
  • Perform screen filter changes, material changes, and color changes following proper processes
  • Identify and communicate recycling equipment problems including auxiliary equipment, air compressors, and fresh/chilled water systems
  • Utilize   computer MRP systems to accurately report production downtime causes and material produced by weight
  • Operate forklift to deliver scrap plastic to the material sort locations
  • Remove non-recyclable materials from reprocessing area and deliver to designated areas (metal, cardboard, other plastics, garbage)
  • Maintain 5S structure in and around equipment, including overall facility layout
  • Continuously perform equipment/facility cleaning procedures to meet expectations

Qualifications:

  • Must have a High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Strong work ethic and ability to follow established processes
  • Mechanical aptitudes in hydraulics, pneumatics, and root cause analysis
  • Positive attitude, reliable, and flexible to changing environments
  • Able to work with minimal supervision and direction
  • Effectively communicate with team members
  • Obtain and maintain OSHA required Forklift certifications 

Work Schedule:

  • 2/2/3 Rotation
  • 7:00AM to 7:00PM or 7:00PM to 7:00AM

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks:

  • Financial Wellness: 401(k) retirement plan with company match and annual/quarterly bonus opportunities.
  • Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Security: Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
  • Optional Extras: Employee-paid voluntary life insurance and supplemental benefits.
  • Time Off: Competitive PTO, paid holidays, and a company-paid Christmas shutdown.
  • Unique Perks:
    • Raffles for concerts, sports, and entertainment tickets.
    • Locally sourced prize raffles.
    • Monthly happy hours to unwind and connect with the team.
Who we are: Monoflo International, Inc. stands as a prominent provider of innovative and eco-friendly business-to-business reusable packaging solutions. Since our inception in 1973, we've remained a family-owned and operated enterprise, steadily advancing as a premier manufacturer of plastic, reusable transport packaging solutions. While our product range is diverse, our core focus remains unwavering: harnessing cutting-edge technology to produce top-tier products that facilitate seamless product transportation for our clients.
We empower our employees to steer their career trajectories, fostering an environment where dedication and excellence are duly recognized and rewarded with avenues for growth. While collaboration is central to our ethos, we emphasize individual accountability and ownership as fundamental drivers of success within our organization.  
If you're seeking an opportunity to seize control of your daily responsibilities and projects while thriving in an environment where colleagues share a deep pride in their work, seize the moment and apply today! 

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