Extruder Operator 1st & 2nd shift

Job Description

Job Description

Extruder Operator

1. Qualifications:
   1. High school diploma or GED required
   2. 0–1 year of relevant experience preferred; prior manufacturing or extrusion exposure is a plus
   3. Will receive hands-on training to support growth within the operator career path
   4. Demonstrate all Basic Position Skills (see below)
   5. Understand functions of standard extrusion tooling (crosshead, die, tip, helix, hypo)
   6. Basic troubleshooting ability for common extrusion issues
   7. Comfortable using rulers, pins, gauges, and digital inspection tools
   8. Ability to build and modify simple LaserMic recipes
   9. Self-motivated with the ability to work semi-independently after initial training
   10. Willingness to learn and accept coaching from Technicians and Leads
2. Basic Position Skills:
   1. Flexibility – Able to adapt to shifting priorities and tasks
   2. Time Management – Balances multiple responsibilities and completes them efficiently
   3. Critical Thinking – Applies training and logic to troubleshoot issues
   4. Paperwork Accuracy – Completes all documentation thoroughly and correctly
   5. Team Collaboration – Works well with others to achieve shared goals
3. Reports to: Manufacturing Operations Manager
4. Primary job responsibility: The Extruder Operator Level 1 is an entry-level role within the extrusion department. This position focuses on developing foundational knowledge and hands-on skills in extrusion processes. The Level 1 Operator supports extrusion line setup, assists with product teardowns, monitors quality metrics, and contributes to maintaining efficient and safe manufacturing processes. Operators at this level typically work under the guidance of experienced Extrusion Technicians.
5. Essential functions of the position:

Extrusion Line Setup and Preparation

1. 1. Assist with the setup of extrusion lines based on work orders, process records, and customer drawings
   2. Select and install the correct components for each run, including:

Faceplates, haul-offs (with or without cutters), air regulators, airboxes, and laser micrometers

1. 1. Set up downstream equipment such as:

Cooling tanks, vacuum tanks, heated tanks

1. 1. Assemble standard and BAT tooling crosshead setups under supervision
   2. Attach sidearms, breaker plates, and screens as part of the tooling assembly process
   3. Apply heater bands, thermocouples, and fiberglass insulation to maintain correct temperature control

Teardowns and Cleaning

1. 1. Perform standard and BAT tooling teardowns for single and co-extrusions following procedures (e.g., P-021)
   2. Clean and disassemble extrusion tooling (e.g., tip, die, helix, crosshead, sidearm) using appropriate tools
   3. Return tooling and feed screws to the Tool Crib per established procedures
   4. Clean hopper dryers and purge extruders using LDPE, acrylic, or high-temp purge as needed

Equipment Operation and Process Monitoring

1. 1. Start up extrusion lines, including setting screw speeds and monitoring heat profiles

1. 1. Operate laser micrometers and build basic recipes for part measurement

1. 1. Monitor and adjust external dimensions (OD) using gauges, pins, rulers, and other measuring tools
   2. Recognize and respond to basic visual and dimensional quality indicators

Quality and Inspection Support

• • Submit start-up and in-process samples to Quality Control for inspection
  • Use feedback to adjust process outputs within allowable ranges
  • Document changes or issues that may affect product conformity
  • Understand and apply basic troubleshooting steps before escalating to a technician

Documentation and Compliance

1. 1. Maintain accurate and complete records in all required documentation (e.g., Process Records, Rotation Sheets)
   2. Follow Good Documentation Practices (GDP) and sign off on process steps appropriately
   3. Record tooling orientation, process setpoints, and product traceability as required

Safety and Housekeeping

1. 1. Follow all PPE requirements and equipment safety procedures

1. 1. Identify and report safety hazards, tooling damage, or equipment malfunctions

1. 1. Keep work area clean and organized, including vacuuming lines and draining tanks after teardown

1. 1. Ensure all line components are powered down and stored correctly after use
2. Is the work described above checked by another individual? ? YES ? NO

1. Work Environment:
   1. Fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing floor
   2. Exposure to high temperatures, moving machinery, and high-voltage equipment
   3. PPE compliance is required at all times
   4. Consistent motor skills and other requirements of the position:

   5. Persistent: Standing: (60)% Sitting: (20)% Walking: (20)%

      Consistent lifting of up to 50 lbs. – Occasionally

      Minimum lifting of 1 lb. – Frequently

      Maximum carrying distance of up to 100 ft. – Rarely

      Reaching – must be able to reach machines and/or materials up to 6 ft. from the floor – Frequently

      Kneeling – Rarely

      Climbing stairs – Occasionally

      Repetitive motion – right/left hand/wrist – Occasionally

      Repetitive motion – right/left foot/ankle – N/A

      Continuous arm motions – Yes

      Must be able to avoid potentially moving objects which could cause injury – Yes

      Must be able to grasp and move objects consistently and regularly – Yes

      Vision: intricate nature of work requires vision of 20/20 with or without corrective lenses – Yes

      Must be able to use gaging equipment and tools – Yes

      Must demonstrate ability to work productively and efficiently with others – Yes

      Microspec offers competitive wages and benefits, including:

      Sign-On Bonus

      Comprehensive Health Insurance

      Matching 401K plan annually after 1 year

      Entry-level 2 weeks paid vacation

      64 Hours personal/sick time (unused time paid out at the end of the year)

      Annual discretionary bonus

      Base Salary range-$24-$27 per hour based on experience

      20% 2nd Shift Differential - 2nd Shift hours are Monday-Friday 1:30 pm - 10:00 pm