Polymer Extrusion Line Specialist

Novolex Corporate • Franklin Park, IL

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Novolex is a leader in food, beverage, and specialty packaging for various markets including foodservice, restaurant delivery and carryout, food processing, grocery and retail, and industrial markets. Our manufacturing capabilities span resin, paper, molded fiber, aluminum, and more, offering a wide range of products. Our sustainability framework is built on three pillars: products, operations, and people, guiding our initiatives and growth. This role is crucial for driving the consistent, safe operation of extrusion equipment to meet targets for waste, quality, efficiency, and utilization. The specialist will diagnose process issues, perform mechanical adjustments, contribute to resolving production challenges, and coach junior team members. Responsibilities include performing in-process inspections, identifying and correcting defects, completing end-of-shift documentation, and upholding safety and housekeeping standards.

Requirements

• 1+ years as an extrusion machine operator in a manufacturing environment.
• Comfort with a 12-hour rotating schedule, including every other weekend.
• Reliable attendance; arrive before shift start ready to produce.
• Hands-on troubleshooting and problem-solving with extrusion machinery.
• Strong communication and meticulous recordkeeping.
• Analytical thinking and solid math skills.
• Proficient in quality checks; understands production measurement tools and product quality standards.
• Willing to wear required PPE (hairnets, beard-nets, steel-toed shoes/boots, ear protection, bump caps) when required.
• Manual dexterity and sound mechanical aptitude.

Responsibilities

• Drive consistent, safe operation of extrusion equipment to meet targets for waste, quality, efficiency, and utilization.
• Diagnose process issues and perform precise mechanical adjustments to return the line to standard.
• Contribute fresh, practical ideas to resolve production challenges.
• Coach junior team members to build capability across the shift.
• Perform in-process inspections; identify and correct defects at the source.
• Complete end-of-shift documentation: crewing time, machine time, and quantities produced.
• Uphold safety, housekeeping, and standard work practices at all times.

Benefits

• Medical coverage
• Dental coverage
• Vision coverage
• Well-being resources supporting mental, physical, and financial health
• Community Engagement: Focused Giving supports sustainability initiatives and efforts addressing food and hunger, plus local facility-led activities.
• Training & Development: Ongoing skills development via MyLearning, industry curricula, LMS resources
• Tuition Reimbursement (Non-Union)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed