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Plastic Extrusion Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Omega Plastics

Plastic Extrusion Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Two or more years of prior experience as a Plastic Extrusion Operator or in a similar role preferred. * Excellent mechanical and troubleshooting skills. * Technical skills and knowledge of plastic ...

Adecco

Extrusion Machine Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$17.50/hr

Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator Position Summary We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator to join our production team. This role is responsible for ...

Republic Plastics

Extrusion Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Experience in Plastics Thermoforming is required. To review the full , click below: Production Extrusion Operator Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of ...

PolyPipe, LLC

Industrial Engineer

Erwin, TN · On-site

$61K - $83K/yr

Provide technical leadership for plastic extrusion manufacturing processes, equipment performance, tooling systems, and process improvement initiatives. * Assess current manufacturing operations to ...

PolyPipe, LLC

Industrial Engineer

Erwin, TN · On-site

$61K - $83K/yr

Provide technical leadership for plastic extrusion manufacturing processes, equipment performance, tooling systems, and process improvement initiatives. * Assess current manufacturing operations to ...

PolyPipe, LLC

Industrial Engineer

Erwin, TN

$61K - $83K/yr

Provide technical leadership for plastic extrusion manufacturing processes, equipment performance, tooling systems, and process improvement initiatives. * Assess current manufacturing operations to ...

Westlake

Extruder Operator Lead

Bristol, TN

$17 - $21.25/hr

Group Lead - Plastics Extrusion Location: Bristol, TN Department: Manufacturing / Plastics Extrusion Employment Type: Full-Time Position Summary Westlake Royal Building Products is seeking a Group ...

Westlake Corporation

Extruder Operator Lead

Bristol, TN · On-site

$17 - $21.25/hr

Group Lead - Plastics Extrusion Location: Bristol, TN Department: Manufacturing / Plastics Extrusion Employment Type: Full-Time Position Summary Westlake Royal Building Products is seeking a Group ...

Terry Young & Associates

Be Seen First

Manufacturing Controls Engineer - PLC

Nashville, TN · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

The Controls Engineer will be responsible for implementing Controls and Engineering support for production process in support of Rubber, Plastic extrusion and molding manufacturing processes. The ...

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All JobsPlastic Extrusion JobsPlastic Extrusion Jobs in Tennessee

Plastic Extrusion information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$17

$23

How much do plastic extrusion jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic extrusion in Tennessee is $17.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is plastic extrusion?

Plastic extrusion is a manufacturing process where raw plastic materials are melted and formed into a continuous profile, such as pipes, tubes, or sheets. The process involves feeding plastic pellets or granules into an extruder, where they're melted and pushed through a shaped die to create a specific product shape. This method is widely used for making products like window frames, plastic films, and wire insulation due to its efficiency and versatility. The final product can be cut to length or wound onto spools, depending on the application.

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

To excel as a Plastic Extrusion Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with on-the-job training or vocational certification preferred. Familiarity with extrusion machinery, quality control systems, and tools such as micrometers and calipers is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help operators quickly address production issues and collaborate with colleagues. These skills ensure the consistent production of high-quality plastic products while maintaining safety and efficiency in a manufacturing environment.

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

Plastic extrusion operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, managing machine downtime, and troubleshooting process issues like uneven thickness or surface defects. These challenges can be addressed by closely monitoring process parameters, performing regular equipment maintenance, and staying up-to-date with safety and quality standards. Effective communication with team members and supervisors is also essential, as collaboration helps quickly identify and resolve production issues.

What is the difference between Plastic Extrusion vs Plastic Fabricator?

AspectPlastic ExtrusionPlastic Fabricator
Primary RoleProcesses raw plastic materials into continuous shapes like pipes, sheets, or profilesAssembles, cuts, and finishes plastic components into final products
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of extrusion machinery, material properties, safety protocolsSkills in cutting, welding, assembly, and finishing plastics
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants with extrusion linesWorkshops or factories assembling plastic parts
Industry UsagePlastic manufacturing and processingPlastic product assembly and customization

While Plastic Extrusion involves creating continuous plastic shapes through specialized machinery, Plastic Fabricators focus on assembling and finishing plastic parts into final products. Both roles require knowledge of plastics, but they differ in process and end goals.

What are popular job titles related to Plastic Extrusion jobs in Tennessee?

For Plastic Extrusion jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plastic Extrusion jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Plastic Extrusion jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Plastic Extrusion jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Plastic Extrusion job openings:

Plastic Extrusion jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plastic Extrusion job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,585 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Plastic Extrusion Operator

Omega Plastics

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Extruder Operator is responsible for operating extrusion equipment in a safe and efficient manner in order to manufacture products in accordance with customer specifications. The Operator is responsible for the setup of the equipment, monitoring the process, adjusting, and correcting as needed, and troubleshooting any issues that may arise.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Select, assemble, and install correct dies, and calibrate machine settings (temperature, pressure, speed) based on material specifications and product requirements.

  • Feeding Material: Load raw materials into the extrusion machine, which may include pellets or powders depending on the extruder type and materials used.

  • The Operator must collaborate effectively with supporting staff (such as engineering, packing, and management) to optimize production.

  • The Operator will assist in the setting up and testing new lines.

  • Make repairs to equipment when necessary, and replace all defective, broken or worn-out components.

  • Choose and install cutters, pullers and dies all other necessary equipment parts so machines are always operating at peak efficiency.

  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting tasks on the machine to ensure its optimal performance.

  • Work with warehouse team members to ensure raw materials and supplies are available when needed.

  • Cleans machine(s), cleans work area, process scraps through grinders and track regrind amounts.

  • Set-up, troubleshoot and perform proper adjustments to the dies and various machines on an extrusion line to maintain safety, quality, and productivity standards.

  • Comply with all federal and state environmental, health and safety regulations as well as any safety policies and protocols outlined by the company.

  • Complete all other tasks assigned.

EDUCATION

  • High school diploma or equivalent

  • Two years of mechanical/technical training preferred.

  • Ability to read and interpret technical documents and drawings.

EXPERIENCE/SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

  • At least five years of definable, related experience in a manufacturing plant.

  • Two or more years of prior experience as a Plastic Extrusion Operator or in a similar role preferred.

  • Excellent mechanical and troubleshooting skills.

  • Technical skills and knowledge of plastic extrusion machines and their operation to set up, troubleshoot and operate the machinery efficiently and safely.

  • Problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve issues that may arise during the extrusion process, maintaining the quality and consistency of the products.

  • Attention to detail to ensure that the product meets the specified dimensions, color, and physical properties.

  • Basic math skills to perform calculations related to the extrusion process such as measurements, ratios, and material quantities.

  • Communication skills to effectively collaborate with team members, report issues and comprehend instructions from supervisors or machine manuals.

  • Understanding of quality control processes to ensure that products meet the required standards and specifications.

  • Forklift experience is a plus

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & OTHER

  • Ability to lift up to fifty pounds without the use of mechanical lifting devices.

  • Ability to wear protective equipment such as hearing protection, eye protection, protective masks (respirators), protective gloves, etc.

  • Able to endure working in a manufacturing environment with inside excessive hot and cold temperatures, able to tolerate exposure to dust and noise for 8-12-hour shifts

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