Extruder Operator

The Extruder Operator efficiently controls the operation of an extrusion line from raw material input through to finished product, ensuring safety, quality, and production standards are consistently met. This role involves setting up and operating extrusion equipment, monitoring product specifications, performing quality checks, and accurately documenting production data. Multiple rotating 12-hour shifts are available, including 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

Responsibilities

• Operate the extrusion line and all related equipment from raw material input to finished product output.
• Set up extrusion machines, including films and resins, color concentrates and additives, and line-specific tools.
• Adjust and control production speeds, including input and output rates, to meet production requirements.
• Perform start-up and shutdown procedures, changeovers, and handle downtime activities in accordance with established processes.
• Perform die and screw tear down, screen pack changes, and follow proper lockout/tagout procedures when required.
• Maintain extruded products to required specifications for gauge, length, width, bond strength, color, dyne level, and surface finish.
• Identify and address surface defects and perform required quality control tests, including double checks and data collection.
• Accurately transfer production and quality data to daily production log books, quality control documents, and other required forms.
• Follow the production schedule and related documentation to produce and fulfill customer orders, including special instructions.
• Communicate line malfunctions and equipment issues promptly to minimize production downtime.
• Maintain a clean and orderly work area and warehouse in accordance with housekeeping standards.
• Maintain a safe working environment by following all safety policies and procedures and reporting unsafe conditions and incidents.
• Uphold company quality standards throughout the production process.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support production and facility operations.

• High school diploma or equivalent and/or 1–2 years of relevant experience or a forklift certification.
• Experience with machine operation, preferably in extrusion, production, or general labor environments.
• Ability to read and understand production tickets and related production documentation.
• Ability to work at an accelerated pace while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to perform basic math calculations and use measuring tools such as measuring tapes or other instruments.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Basic computer literacy to enter and review production and quality data.
• Commitment to continuous improvement in processes, quality, and safety.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and bend, stretch, or stand for extended periods of time.

• Prior extrusion line operation experience is beneficial.
• Forklift certification is considered an advantage if not already required.
• Previous experience in a manufacturing or warehouse environment is helpful.
• Strong attention to safety practices and adherence to lockout/tagout procedures.
• Detail-oriented approach to quality control and documentation.
• Ability to work effectively on rotating 12-hour shifts, including overnight hours.

The organization promotes a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement, where employees play a key role in delivering reliable products to customers. Team members benefit from a stable manufacturing environment with opportunities to learn new skills, operate advanced production equipment, and grow within the operation. The company supports a collaborative atmosphere that values clear communication, reliable performance, and respect for every individual, in alignment with equal employment opportunity principles.

Work Environment

This role is based in a manufacturing and warehouse environment focused on extrusion and production operations. The position involves operating and working around extrusion lines and related machinery, using measuring instruments, computers, and production documentation as part of daily tasks. Work is performed on rotating 12-hour shifts, including a 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. shift, which may require extended periods of standing, bending, stretching, and lifting up to 50 pounds. The environment emphasizes cleanliness, organization, and adherence to safety procedures, including proper lockout/tagout practices and the consistent use of appropriate work attire suitable for an industrial production setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Rapids, MI.

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $21.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Grand Rapids,MI.

This position is anticipated to close on May 8, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.