Lead Extruder Operator - Nights

Job Description:

The Lead Extrusion Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining sheet extrusion machines to produce high-quality products according to specifications. This role ensures consistent production output, monitors equipment performance, and performs quality checks throughout the shift.

Essential Functions:

• Leadership & Oversight
• Assign tasks to assistant operators to ensure workflow efficiency
• Provide guidance and training to new assistant operators
• Act as the first point of escalation for technical, process and safety issues
• Track productivity for the team
• Monitor blending of materials
• Fill in for Shift Supervisor as needed
• Machine Setup & Operation
• Set up extrusion lines according to production orders and specifications
• Operate extrusion machines safely and efficiently
• Adjust machine settings to maintain product quality and minimize waste
• Quality Control
• Monitor product dimensions, appearance, and physical properties
• Perform regular quality checks and document results Identify and correct defects or inconsistencies in the product
• Maintenance & Troubleshooting
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of equipment
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor mechanical issues
• Report major equipment malfunctions to maintenance team
• Documentation & Reporting
• Maintain accurate production records, including material usage and downtime
• Complete shift reports and communicate with incoming/outgoing operators
• Safety & Compliance
• Follow all safety protocols and wear required PPE
• Ensure compliance with company policies and industry regulations
• Coach assistant operators and other employees on working safely at all times

Required Qualifications and Education :

• High School diploma or GED
• 2+ years operating an extruder, ideally sheet and/or film extrusion operations
• Must be able to read, write and speak in English to follow work order instructions, record process data and communicate with all levels from operators to management
• Previous experience in a manufacturing environment

Basic math skills to calculate and enter roll data on appropriate forms, material weight, read work instructions, monitors, etc.

Must be able to work and lead in a team environment

Must be able to learn troubleshooting machines, operation of controls, etc.

• Sufficient visual acuity to read instructions, operate machines, and visually inspect rolls produced for defects
• Possess good mechanical aptitude and safety awareness/attitude
• Must follow safety protocols, procedures, and wear PPE as required and lead by example throughout the department
• Physical Requirements
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 12 hours per shift)
• Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, and reaching to operate and maintain extrusion equipment
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 lbs on a regular basis
• Perform repetitive hand and arm movements for machine adjustments and material handling
• Good visual acuity and manual dexterity for reading gauges, monitoring controls, and inspecting product quality
• Comfortable working in a factory environment with heat, noise, and moving machinery
• Ability to wear and properly use personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear
• Must be able to climb stairs or ladders and work at various heights as needed
• Tolerance for standing and performing tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing setting

Candidates must be able to work the night shift position - hours are 7:15PM-7:30AM Monday-Thursday.