Job Summary
We are looking for a dependable, detail-oriented Extrusion Operator to join our manufacturing team. This is more than a typical machine operator position. You will learn a specialized polymer foam extrusion process, operate production equipment, perform quality inspections, make process adjustments, and help produce high-quality products in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
This role combines hands-on manufacturing, technical process knowledge, and physical work. Successful operators enjoy staying active, take pride in producing quality products, and are interested in learning how raw materials, temperatures, pressures, and machine settings work together to create a finished product.
Mechanical aptitude is helpful, as operators may assist with basic machine adjustments and troubleshooting, but previous maintenance experience is not required.
Schedule
Our extrusion department operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Operators work a rotating 2-2-3 schedule with 12-hour shifts (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM or 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM).
Current opening: Night Shift (Day Shift opportunities anticipated in the future.)
This schedule requires employees to:
- Work every other weekend as part of the rotation.
- Work holidays when they fall on their scheduled shift.
- Work overtime and provide coverage for additional shifts when staffing shortages or production needs require it.
What You'll Do
Operate the Extrusion Line
- Set up, operate, monitor, and shut down extrusion equipment.
- Operate extrusion, drying, chilling, and material handling systems.
- Monitor equipment performance and make approved process adjustments to maintain product quality.
- Learn to operate control panels and adjust temperatures, pressures, and other process settings.
- Calibrate heater systems and monitor operating conditions.
- Learn adjustments for production saws used throughout the extrusion process.
- Assist with die cleaning, resin removal, startups, shutdowns, and product changeovers.
The extrusion line naturally moves between periods of slower monitoring and periods of intense activity. Successful operators stay engaged during slower periods and respond quickly when production demands immediate attention.
Learn the Extrusion Process
Operators will receive training to understand:
- How polymer foam extrusion works and how different raw material recipes affect production.
- How temperatures, pressures, and machine settings influence product quality.
- How to recognize process changes and make adjustments to keep production running properly.
- Safe operation around high-temperature equipment and high-pressure gas systems.
Quality Assurance
Quality is a critical part of this position.
Operators are responsible for:
- Performing scheduled quality checks throughout the shift using measuring and laboratory equipment.
- Recording production and quality information accurately.
- Identifying and separating non-conforming products.
- Maintaining high quality standards through attention to detail and consistent process control.
Material Handling & Production Support
Operators will:
- Stack finished foam planks throughout the shift, including products weighing up to 45 pounds.
- Sort, organize, and properly label finished products and materials.
- Operate forklifts after successfully completing company forklift certification.
- Assist with hot plate foam welding operations (not metal welding), finishing production, housekeeping, and light preventative maintenance activities during downtime or planned shutdowns.
Physical Requirements
This is an active manufacturing position. Candidates should be comfortable:
- Working in a warm manufacturing environment where extrusion equipment generates significant heat.
- Standing and walking for most of a 12-hour shift.
- Frequently lifting, carrying, bending, reaching, pushing, and pulling.
- Performing repetitive material handling tasks.
- Wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE) throughout the shift.
What We're Looking For
The ideal candidate has:
- At least 2 years of manufacturing experience.
- Extrusion experience preferred, but candidates with strong manufacturing experience and a willingness to learn are encouraged to apply.
- Mechanical aptitude and a hands-on approach to learning equipment and processes.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Ability to learn technical manufacturing processes and machine controls.
- Ability to work safely while following all company procedures.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- English proficiency sufficient to understand work instructions, safety procedures, and production documentation.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) skills are a plus, but not required.
Schedule
Day Shift: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Night Shift: 6:00 PM – 6:00 AM
Compensation
- Starting pay for Day Shift – 6am: $20.00 per hour
- Starting pay for Night Shift – 6pm: $21.00 per hour
A $1.00 rate increase is applied as they successfully complete training and demonstrate proficiency in equipment operation within first 6 months.
Employees are eligible for quarterly bonus program from day 91
Benefits
- Competitive hourly pay based on experience
- 401(k) with 6% company match
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Health Savings Account (HSA)
- Paid Time Off
- Company-provided forklift certification
- Advancement opportunities
Pay: $20.00 - $21.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) 6% Match
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- What is your expected hourly pay?
- Are you willing to work overtime and cover additional shifts as needed?
- Are you able to perform the physical requirements of this position, including standing most of the shift and frequently lifting up to 45 pounds?
- Are you comfortable working in a warm manufacturing environment?
- Are you willing to obtain company-provided forklift certification?
- Are you able to work a rotating 2-2-3 schedule with 12-hour shifts, including weekends and holidays?
- Which shift(s) are you available to work? Day 6am-6pm or Night 6pm-6am?
Experience:
- Manufacturing: 2 years (Required)
Shift availability:
- Night Shift (Required)
- Overnight Shift (Required)
- Day Shift (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Colfax, NC 27235 (Required)
Work Location: In person
