Extruder Operator

About Kerry

Kerry is the world's leading taste and nutrition company for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. Every day we partner with customers to create healthier, tastier and more sustainable products that are consumed by billions of people across the world. Our vision is to be our customers' most valued partner, creating a world of sustainable nutrition. A career with Kerry offers you an opportunity to shape the future of food while providing you opportunities to explore and grow in a truly global environment.

The Extruder Operator is responsible for the setup, startup, operation, shutdown, and teardown of the extruder and related equipment. Operators must perform minor troubleshooting during operation, refer serious issues to appropriate personnel, and monitor and maintain consistent product quality. Extruder Operators also utilize a basic computer system and keep detailed paper records.

• Set up extruders including screw profile assembly, die inserts, pumps, cutters, and calibration of dry and liquid feeds using company‑issued hand tools.
• Startup extruders according to strict protocol and under supervision.
• Operate extruder including record keeping, basic product quality tests, troubleshooting, and monitoring the flow of raw material inputs.
• Assist with detailed cleaning activities in processing as well as other areas of the plant on a regular basis. This can occasionally mean entire shifts of cleaning duties.
• Deliver a clean, well‑ordered work area to oncoming replacement.
• Make minor adjustments on the machines.
• Shut down machinery.
• Tear down and clean machinery.

• Must have a high school diploma or GED.
• Must have mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in written form.
• Previous manufacturing experience preferred.
• Must have above‑average troubleshooting skills.
• Must be self‑motivated, a strong team player, and able to work with minimum supervision.

Physical demands include regularly sitting, standing, walking, using hands to handle or feel, fingers to grip, talking or hearing, reaching with hands and arms, stooping, kneeling, or crouching, occasionally lifting up to 50 pounds and sometimes up to 100 pounds with assistance. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and ability to adjust focus.

The work environment is primarily in the warehouse of the plant but often extends to all plant areas. Temperature is comfortable for about 9 months per year; summer temperatures often exceed 90°F with large‑scale industrial fans available. Air in processing areas is occasionally dusty due to flour and other ingredients, especially during deep cleaning.

The pay rate for this position is $20.93 per hour. Kerry offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, paid time off, a 401(k) plan with employee and company contribution opportunities, Employee Share Plan, life, disability, and accident insurance.

Kerry is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. Kerry will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditional upon the successful completion of a background investigation and drug screen.

Additional information can be found at Know Your Rights Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (dol.gov).

This job posting is anticipated to expire on 01/31/26.