Extrusion Operator

Location: Buford, GA
Department: Production
Shift:2nd shift (1:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) and 3rd Shift (9:30 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.)

The Extrusion Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and quality-focused operation of extrusion equipment and raw material preparation systems. This position supports the fulfillment of production orders on production lines while maintaining quality standards, minimizing scrap and downtime, and ensuring a clean and safe work environment.

The Extrusion Operator works closely with Production, Process Engineering, Maintenance, Logistics, and Quality teams to meet production schedules and customer requirements.

• Set up, start up, and operate twin-screw compounding extrusion equipment and raw material preparation systems to produce TPE compounds according to established procedures and quality requirements.
• Execute production schedules as directed by Shift Supervisors, Process Engineering, and the Production Manager.
• Ensure continuous production by delivering raw materials to mixers and scales on assigned production lines.
• Minimize scrap, setup times, and equipment downtime.
• Label and return unused raw materials to the Raw Material Preparation (RMP) area.

• Complete required startup inspections and perform routine visual inspections during production runs.
• Record and maintain all raw material lot numbers through weigh stations, scales, and CCS scanning systems.
• Ensure all online testing results, including hardness, density, and other specified measurements, are accurately entered into SAP.
• Complete all required production documentation before releasing finished orders to Quality Assurance.
• Maintain compliance with quality standards, operating procedures, and customer specifications.

• Accurately record production time, yield, and scrap data for each production order.
• Document equipment downtime, including detailed root cause and resolution information.
• Maintain accurate production paperwork, including:
  • Setup and cleaning checklists
  • Startup inspections
  • Weigh and mix sheets
  • Raw material lot number tracking
  • Production records and logs

• Participate in shift-change communications to ensure smooth production transitions.
• Maintain effective communication with Raw Material Preparation, Process Engineering, Maintenance, Logistics, and Quality departments.
• Report material discrepancies, safety concerns, injuries, equipment issues, or any condition that may impact product quality or production schedules.
• Attend and actively participate in company-sponsored training programs.

• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain a safe, clean, organized, and efficient work area.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and workplace organization efforts.
• Notify Maintenance and Supervisors of equipment malfunctions or damage promptly.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support manufacturing operations.

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of one (1) year of manufacturing experience required.
• Experience operating plastics processing or extrusion equipment preferred.
• SAP experience preferred.

• Equipment operation and material handling
• Extrusion line operation and technical knowledge
• TPE compound processing knowledge
• TPE raw material knowledge
• Quality control methods and testing procedures
• Process documentation and recordkeeping
• Safety policies, procedures, and best practices

• Mechanical aptitude
• Mathematical aptitude
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Time management and organization skills
• Professionalism and reliability
• Oral and written communication skills
• Reading comprehension and ability to follow work instructions

• Ability to safely lift and carry up to 55 pounds of raw material bags or totes on a regular basis.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and move throughout the production area for extended periods.
• Ability to work safely around manufacturing…