1

Plastic Extrusion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... extrusion machinery used to process plastic materials into customized film structures. This role requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to quality and safety standards ...

Fusion Optix Extrusion Professional Fusion Optix is a technology leader in optical materials and ... College education related to plastics engineering a plus, though not essential. Why Join Fusion ...

Plastic Extrusion Operator

Woburn, MA ยท On-site

$23 - $30/hr

Set up, operate and maintain extrusion production equipment used to make optical grade profiles ... College education related to plastics engineering a plus, though not essential. Why Join Fusion ...

Fusion Optix Extrusion Professional Fusion Optix is a technology leader in optical materials and ... College education related to plastics engineering a plus, though not essential. Why Join Fusion ...

Role and Responsibilities Machine Operation Previous experience in operating extrusion or plastics would be preferred. Able to lift up to 75lbs throughout shift. Education Preferred high school ...

Role and Responsibilities Machine Operation Previous experience in operating extrusion or plastics would be preferred. Able to lift up to 75lbs throughout shift. Education Preferred high school ...

Showing results 21-40

Plastic Extrusion information

See salary details

$12

$18

$26

How much do plastic extrusion jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for plastic extrusion in the United States is $18.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Plastic Extrusion jobs
What cities are hiring for Plastic Extrusion jobs? Cities with the most Plastic Extrusion job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plastic Extrusion jobs? The most popular types of Plastic Extrusion jobs are:
What states have the most Plastic Extrusion jobs? States with the most job openings for Plastic Extrusion jobs include:
Infographic showing various Plastic Extrusion job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,207 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Sr. Plastic Extrusion Technician (1st shift)

IPS Corporation

Fontana, CA โ€ข On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Sr. Plastic Extrusion Technician
Location: Fontana, CA
Shift: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

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 Sr. Plastic Extrusion Technician operates, monitors, and maintains plastic extrusion equipment to produce high-quality plastic profiles, tubing, pipe, sheet, or other extruded products. This hands-on role ensures consistent product quality, efficient production, and adherence to safety and process standards in a manufacturing environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • 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. Set up, start up, operate, and shut down single-screw or twin-screw extruders and related downstream equipment (pullers, cutters, coolers, winders, etc.).
  • Perform material handling: load raw materials (pellets, regrind, additives), blend formulations as required, and manage material changes or purges.
  • Conduct in-process quality checks (dimensions, appearance, weight, wall thickness, ovality) using calipers, micrometers, laser gauges, or other measurement tools.
  • Troubleshoot common extrusion issues (surging, die lines, contamination, dimensional variation, melt fracture) and take corrective action or escalate as needed.
  • Perform routine preventive maintenance, die and tooling changes, screen pack changes, and basic equipment cleaning.
  • Follow all safety procedures, including lockout/tagout, PPE requirements, and proper handling of hot equipment and materials.
  • Accurately complete production logs, quality records, and shift reports.
  • Assist with process optimization, scrap reduction, and continuous improvement efforts.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with 5S or similar standards.

Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or associate degree in plastics, manufacturing, or related field preferred.
  • 2-4+ years of hands-on experience operating plastic extrusion equipment (profile, pipe, tubing, sheet, or film preferred).
  • Knowledge of extrusion process principles, temperature control, and material behavior of common resins (PVC, PE, PP, ABS, etc.).
  • Ability to read and interpret process sheets, work instructions, and basic technical drawings.
  • Mechanical aptitude and comfort using hand tools, measurement instruments, and basic troubleshooting techniques.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently or as part of a production team.
  • Willingness to work rotating shifts, overtime, and weekends as production demands require.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods in a manufacturing environment.
  • 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
  • Experience with specific extrusion processes relevant to the company's products (e.g., pipe, profile, medical tubing, or co-extrusion).
  • Familiarity with statistical process control (SPC), quality systems, or ISO standards.
  • Basic understanding of plastics material science or prior experience with material formulation/blending.
  • Forklift or powered industrial truck certification.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Physical Requirements
  • Manufacturing floor environment with exposure to heat, noise, and moving equipment.
  • Requires standing, walking, bending, and occasional lifting.
  • Strict adherence to safety protocols is mandatory.
  • Willingness to work flexible shifts, including overtime, nights, and weekends when required.

Hourly Range: $27.00 - $32.00/hour