Plastic Extruder Operator

SUMMARY: Operates the extrusion production line and its integrated equipment, including the extruder, hydraulic press, shear cutter, and robots. This role requires a more seasoned machine operator who can manage multiple pieces of equipment, monitor process conditions, recognize process or equipment abnormalities, and maintain safe, consistent production.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operate the extrusion line, including extruder, hydraulic press, robot, and associated material-handling/automation equipment.
• Perform line start-up, normal operation, authorized process adjustments, changeovers, and shutdown activities in accordance with procedures.
• Monitor process parameters, HMI indications, temperatures, pressures, alarms, material flow, cycle performance, and product condition.
• Maintain consistent production of sheets/components to required specifications and promptly identify process drift or abnormal conditions.
• Perform first-level troubleshooting and basic assessment of extruder, press, robot, sensors, and supporting equipment; escalate maintenance/controls/process issues appropriately.
• Verify raw material availability and correct material flow; coordinate replenishment with material handlers/forklift drivers.
• Inspect product for visible defects and dimensional/process concerns as required; segregate nonconforming material and follow quality procedures.
• Monitor production output, scrap/regrind, downtime, process checks, and other required operating data.
• Maintain line housekeeping/5S and comply with guarding, hot-surface, hydraulic, lockout/tagout, PPE, and all plant safety requirements.
• Support training of less-experienced operators when qualified and assigned.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS

• Prior industrial machine-operation experience required; extrusion, plastics processing, hydraulic press, or automated manufacturing experience strongly preferred.

• Demonstrated ability to operate and monitor multiple integrated machines and automation systems.

• Mechanical aptitude and practical troubleshooting skills; ability to recognize abnormal process/equipment conditions and take appropriate action.

• Ability to read and follow operating procedures, work instructions, process settings, and quality requirements.

• Communication, comprehension of instructions and ability to respond in a clear, concise and respectful manners are essential.

• Basic computer/HMI/data-entry skills; ability to accurately document production and process information.

• Strong safety awareness, dependability, and ability to work with limited direct supervision after qualification.

CORE EXPECTATIONS:

• Safety-first behavior and compliance with all plant policies, PPE requirements, and authorized work practices.
• Consistent attendance, punctuality, dependability, teamwork, and respectful workplace conduct.
• Ability to learn and follow standard work, respond to supervisor direction, and report unsafe, abnormal, or nonconforming conditions promptly.
• Maintain work area organization and housekeeping/5S standards.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Regular standing/walking and frequent interaction with industrial production equipment.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials/components within established job limits, using mechanical assistance when required.
• Work may involve exposure to heat, noise, moving machinery, hydraulic equipment, and hot process surfaces.
• Ability to wear required PPE and comply with guarding and hazardous-energy controls.