USA Extruder Operator Multi Shift
About The Position
The Extruder Operator operates a twin-screw extruder and related upstream and downstream equipment to produce high-quality pet food that meets company standards and customer specifications. The role monitors and controls the extrusion process, adjusts equipment settings, and supports production, quality, and safety goals. Duties also include in-process quality checks, basic preventive maintenance and troubleshooting, accurate production documentation, and communication with quality, maintenance, and supervisory teams. The operator contributes to process improvements, assists with developing extrusion recipes and procedures, and helps train new operators. The role requires availability to work any shift as needed.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- 1–3 years of experience in extrusion or manufacturing operations.
- Experience with twin-screw extruders is required.
- Ability to work on any shift as needed.
- Familiarity with twin-screw extrusion technology and its applications.
- Ability to read and interpret technical documents, standard operating procedures, and process charts.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
- Basic math and computer skills for production data entry and analysis.
- Good communication and teamwork abilities.
Nice To Haves
- Associate’s degree in a technical field.
- Forklift operation certification.
- HACCP or GMP training.
Responsibilities
- Operate and monitor the twin-screw extruder and related equipment, including feeders, preconditioners, and cutting systems.
- Adjust temperature, pressure, feed rates, moisture, and other machine settings to support product quality and production efficiency.
- Conduct routine checks of product size, texture, and appearance.
- Perform in-process quality checks, including measuring moisture, density, and temperature.
- Work with the quality assurance team to address deviations from product specifications.
- Accurately document production parameters and quality results.
- Perform basic preventive maintenance, including cleaning the extruder barrel, screws, and dies.
- Identify and troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and process issues, escalating complex problems to the maintenance team.
- Monitor extruder components for wear and report issues requiring replacement.
- Follow safety protocols, Good Manufacturing Practices, and food safety standards.
- Keep equipment and work areas clean and compliant with regulatory standards.
- Participate in safety and operational training.
- Suggest and implement improvements to productivity, efficiency, and quality.
- Assist in developing and refining extrusion recipes and procedures.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams on process optimization projects.
- Maintain production logs, including material usage, batch tracking, and machine parameters.
- Communicate production issues and needs to supervisors, maintenance, and quality teams.
- Assist in training new operators on extrusion equipment and procedures.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- 90% company-paid employee-only medical plan option.
- 401(k) with employer matching.
- Paid holidays and paid time off.
- Employee discounts.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
