Senior Extruder Operator

Posted today

yespacSomerville (NJ)

Extruding, Forming, Pressing, and Compacting Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders Perishable Prepared Food Manufacturing

SENIORITY

Senior

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About the role

Job Description: We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Extrusion Operator with deep technical expertise in food-grade packaging manufacturing. In this role, you will lead the setup, operation, and optimization of our high-speed extrusion lines producing plastic thermoforming sheets, paper coatings, and raw materials for food containers and cups. This position requires a master-level operator who understands the strict quality, sanitation, and precision standards required for food-contact packaging.

Key Responsibilities: Advanced Machine Setup: Lead complex changeovers and calibrate extrusion parameters (temperature profiles, die gaps, screw speeds) for food-grade resins and paper-coating substrates. Food-Grade Quality Control: Ensure strict compliance with food safety standards (such as SQF, BRC, or FDA regulations) by maintaining a sterile manufacturing environment and preventing product contamination. Precision Inspection: Use micrometers, calipers, and automated gauge systems to monitor sheet thickness, barrier properties, and coating uniformity for flawless cup and container forming. Troubleshooting & Optimization: Diagnose and resolve complex mechanical and material issues (e.g., gels, surging, gauge variation) to maximize throughput and minimize resin scrap. Material Management: Oversee the blending of virgin resins, regrind, color concentrates, and functional additives according to precise product formulations.

Required Experience & Qualifications

Experience: Minimum 5 to 7+ years of direct experience in industrial extrusion, specifically within the food packaging, thermoforming sheet, or paper conversion industries. Technical Expertise: Proven mastery of sheet extrusion, cast film extrusion, or extrusion coating lines used for manufacturing cups and containers. Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and safety protocols for producing food-contact materials. Mechanical Aptitude: Strong ability to read technical blueprints, perform routine die maintenance, and manage complex mechanical changeovers independently.

Physical Demands: Ability to work on your feet in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and lift up to 50 pounds safely.

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