Extrusion Operator / Lead Operator - 1st – 6 to 2pm M-F, 2nd – 10am to 8pm M-Th, 3rd – 8pm to 6am M – Th

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Extrusion Operator / Lead Operator to join our growing manufacturing team in Ellendale, MN. This hands-on leadership role is responsible for setting up, operating, and optimizing extrusion equipment while providing day-to-day direction, training, and support to production team members.

The ideal candidate is a strong leader with experience in plastic extrusion or continuous manufacturing who leads by example, promotes a culture of safety and accountability, and is committed to producing high-quality products while driving operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Operations

• Set up, operate, monitor, and troubleshoot extrusion lines to ensure consistent product quality and production efficiency.
• Oversee daily production activities to ensure schedules, quality standards, and productivity goals are achieved.
• Perform machine adjustments and process optimization to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime.
• Monitor raw material usage, production output, and quality metrics throughout each shift.
• Conduct in-process quality inspections using calipers, gauges, and other measuring equipment.
• Complete production reports, shift documentation, and quality records accurately.

Leadership & Supervision

• Provide day-to-day leadership and direction to extrusion operators and production associates on assigned shift.
• Train, coach, and mentor new and existing team members on equipment operation, safety procedures, quality standards, and best practices.
• Assign daily tasks and coordinate workflow to ensure production goals are met.
• Monitor employee performance and promote accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Partner with Production Management to address staffing needs, process improvements, and operational challenges.
• Assist with onboarding, cross-training, and developing employees for increased responsibilities.
• Foster a positive, safety-first culture that encourages communication and collaboration.

Safety & Continuous Improvement

• Ensure compliance with all company safety policies, GMP standards, and manufacturing procedures.
• Identify opportunities to improve productivity, reduce waste, and enhance product quality.
• Work closely with Maintenance and Quality teams to resolve equipment or production issues.
• Support Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; technical training or manufacturing certifications are a plus.
• 3+ years of extrusion, plastics manufacturing, or continuous process manufacturing experience.
• Previous lead, supervisor, or team leadership experience preferred.
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot production equipment.
• Experience training and mentoring employees in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and make sound decisions in a fast-paced production setting.
• Forklift experience is a plus.

Preferred Experience

Candidates with experience in the following roles are encouraged to apply:

• Lead Extrusion Operator
• Extrusion Supervisor
• Senior Extrusion Operator
• Plastic Extrusion Technician
• Production Lead
• Manufacturing Lead
• Process Technician
• Machine Operator Lead
• Production Supervisor
• Polymer Processing Technician

Key Skills

• Extrusion Operations
• Plastic & Polymer Processing
• Team Leadership & Supervision
• Employee Coaching & Training
• Production Planning & Coordination
• Process Optimization
• Mechanical Troubleshooting
• Preventive Maintenance
• Lean Manufacturing & 5S
• Quality Assurance
• Root Cause Analysis
• Safety Leadership
• Continuous Improvement
• Communication
• Problem Solving
• Time Management
• Attention to Detail

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds safely.
• Ability to bend, reach, push, pull, and perform repetitive tasks throughout the shift.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures and noise levels.