Thermoplastic Extrusion Technician

About the Role As a Thermoplastic Extrusion Technician, you will own the operation and optimization of extrusion lines to manufacture products precisely to customer specifications. You’ll prepare equipment, dial in parameters, monitor throughput and quality, and take corrective action to keep the line running safely and efficiently.

A Day in the Life You begin by reviewing the work order and material specs, selecting the correct die set, and bringing the line up to process temperature. You load pellets or powders, verify melt pressure and speed, and coordinate with engineering and packaging before first-piece approval. Throughout the run, you make targeted adjustments, swap worn components, and document regrind usage—all while keeping the area clean and compliant.

What You’ll DoSelect, assemble, and install the proper dies; calibrate temperature, pressure, and line speed to match material and product requirements.

Load raw materials (pellets or powders) safely and consistently into the extruder.

Partner closely with engineering, packing, and management to maximize output and quality.

Assist with setting up and testing new extrusion lines and product trials.

Perform repairs when needed; replace defective, broken, or worn components.

Choose and install cutters, pullers, and other critical line components to sustain peak efficiency.

Carry out routine maintenance and troubleshooting to maintain optimal machine performance.

Coordinate with warehouse to ensure timely availability of resin and supplies.

Clean machines and the surrounding workspace; process scrap through grinders and record regrind amounts.

Set up, troubleshoot, and fine-tune dies and equipment to uphold safety, quality, and productivity standards.

Comply with all federal and state environmental, health, and safety regulations and with company safety policies and protocols.

Perform additional duties as assigned.

Education High school diploma or equivalent.

Two years of mechanical/technical training preferred.

Ability to read and interpret technical documents and engineering drawings.

Experience,

Skills & Qualifications Minimum of five years of related experience in a manufacturing environment.

Two or more years as a plastic extrusion operator or in a closely related role preferred.

Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.

Hands-on knowledge of extrusion machinery, including safe and efficient setup, operation, and changeovers.

Solid problem-solving skills to maintain product consistency and resolve process issues.

High attention to detail for meeting dimensional, color, and physical property targets.

Basic math skills for measurements, ratios, and material calculations.

Clear communication skills for teamwork, reporting, and following technical instructions.

Familiarity with quality control practices and standards.

Forklift experience is a plus.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment Lift up to 50 lbs without mechanical assistance.

Wear required PPE such as hearing and eye protection, respirators, and gloves.

Comfort working inside a manufacturing setting with hot/cold temperature extremes, dust, and noise for 8–12-hour shifts.
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