Extrusion Operator, 2nd shift

Job Summary

The Extrusion Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and monitoring extrusion equipment used to apply plastic insulation and protective jacketing to wire and cable products. This role supports the production of quality products by maintaining consistent machine operation, monitoring product specifications, performing quality checks, and identifying equipment or process issues. The operator works closely with Production, Quality, and Maintenance to meet production goals, minimize scrap, and ensure products meet customer and company standards.

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 3:00pm-11:00pm
Pay Range: $25.50-$35.50 [base rate $23.00-$33.00 + 2nd shift $2.50/hour differential]

Essential Job Functions

• Set up, operate, and monitor wire and cable extrusion lines, including extruders, payoffs, take-ups, cooling systems, and related equipment.

• Load wire, cable, and plastic compounds into production equipment according to work orders and established procedures.

• Adjust machine settings, including temperature, line speed, extrusion pressure, and material feed rates, to maintain consistent insulation or jacketing application.

• Monitor the extrusion process to ensure proper material flow, coating thickness, concentricity, adhesion, and overall product quality.

• Perform routine quality checks using measuring tools and testing equipment to verify insulation or jacket thickness, outside diameter, and other required specifications.

• Identify and troubleshoot common extrusion issues, including inconsistent coating thickness, surface defects, material flow problems, and equipment malfunctions.

• Perform production changeovers, including material changes, tooling adjustments, and equipment preparation for different wire and cable specifications.

• Monitor material usage, replenish supplies, and ensure proper handling and identification of raw materials and finished products.

• Inspect finished products for defects, segregate nonconforming material, and communicate quality concerns to the appropriate personnel.

• Complete production records accurately, including output quantities, material usage, scrap, downtime, and quality inspection results.

• Perform routine cleaning, basic equipment maintenance, and operator-level preventive maintenance to keep machinery in good working condition.

• Safely handle, move, spool, and package wire and cable products using appropriate equipment and procedures.

• Follow all safety procedures, including machine guarding, lockout/tagout requirements, proper PPE use, and safe material handling practices.

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area in accordance with housekeeping and workplace standards.

• Communicate equipment issues, production delays, quality concerns, and shift updates to supervisors and incoming operators.

• Work collaboratively with Production, Quality, and Maintenance teams to meet production goals and support continuous improvement initiatives.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or GED preferred, or equivalent manufacturing experience.

• Previous experience operating production machinery in a manufacturing or industrial environment preferred.

• Mechanical aptitude and ability to recognize and troubleshoot basic equipment issues.

• Ability to read and follow work orders, operating instructions, and product specifications.

• Basic math skills and ability to accurately record production measurements and quantities.

• Ability to use measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges, or willingness to learn.

• Strong attention to detail, with a commitment to safety, quality, and productivity.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a manufacturing environment.

• Willingness to work assigned shifts, including overtime as production needs require.

Preferred:

• Experience operating plastic extrusion equipment, particularly wire and cable insulation or jacketing lines.

• Familiarity with thermoplastic materials such as PVC, polyethylene, or other insulation and jacketing compounds.

• Experience with extrusion tooling, machine setup, temperature controls, and process adjustments.

• Knowledge of wire and cable quality requirements, including insulation thickness, concentricity, outside diameter, and surface finish.

• Experience with spark testing, diameter measurement systems, or other in-line quality monitoring equipment.

• Experience operating forklifts, hoists, or other material-handling equipment.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.

• Ability to frequently bend, reach, push, pull, and perform repetitive movements.

• Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with assistance or mechanical lifting equipment as appropriate.

• Ability to work around moving machinery, heated equipment, rotating reels, and industrial production processes.

• Exposure to noise, varying temperatures, and other conditions typical of a manufacturing environment.

• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and safety footwear.

• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Expectations for Success

• Safety: Consistently follows safe operating procedures and promptly reports hazards or unsafe conditions.

• Quality: Produces properly insulated or jacketed wire and cable that meets specifications while minimizing defects, rework, and scrap.

• Productivity: Maintains steady machine operation, minimizes unnecessary downtime, and works toward established production targets.

• Equipment Care: Recognizes process and equipment issues early, performs required operator maintenance, and helps prevent avoidable downtime.

• Teamwork: Communicates clearly, supports smooth shift transitions, and contributes to a reliable, productive work environment.

• Reliability: Contributes to production goals through strong punctuality and attendance