Extruder Operator

IntroductionAt Senneca, we embrace the entrepreneurial spirit of the innovators that created our brands from traffic doors, to cold storage doors to fiberglass doors and beyond. We are committed to exceeding our customers’ expectations and to provide doors that offer safety and protection to our customers’ most important assets…people, products, capital investments and processes.OverviewThe Extruder Operator is responsible for safely producing high‑quality flexible PVC extrusions in a fast‑paced, team‑based manufacturing environment. This role is part of a three‑person extrusion team operating across three 8‑hour shifts in a 24/5 (Monday-Friday) operation. The successful candidate will be mechanically inclined, machine‑savvy, and motivated to learn extrusion operations through a hands‑on training process.This position offers a strong development path, with an expected training period of approximately 6 months to 1 year to become a fully trained operator. As skills/level of competence grows, so does the wage. Training will be provided by experienced operators with 20+ years in extrusion.ResponsibilitiesMachine Operation & ProductionOperate Extruder as part of a teamPerform start‑ups, shut‑downs, and all required changeovers based on production needsValidate and adjust machine settings to ensure correct, accurate, and consistent operationMonitor extrusion process continuously to ensure safe, stable, and efficient operationQuality ControlPerform raw material checks prior to and during productionConduct in‑line quality inspections to ensure product meets specificationsIdentify defects or process issues and take appropriate corrective actionsEnsure only good product is produced and packagedPerformance & DocumentationTrack operational performance metrics to ensure productivity and equipment efficiencyAccurately document machine settings, checks, and shift performanceCommunicate clearly during shift hand‑offs, including machine status, quality concerns, and production prioritiesContinuous Improvement & SMED (Single‑Minute Exchange of Die)Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, and equipment efficiencySupport and apply SMED (Single‑Minute Exchange of Die) principles to reduce changeover and setup time on extrusion equipmentFollow standardized work instructions for changeovers, start‑ups, and shut‑downs to improve repeatability and consistencyIdentify opportunities to improve setup efficiency, material handling, tooling readiness, and line changeover processesCollaborate with teammates and experienced operators to refine best practices and implement process improvementsProvide input and feedback on what works well and where improvements can be made, especially related to reducing downtime and wasteMaintain a mindset of continuous learning, problem‑solving, and operational excellenceMaintenance & HousekeepingPerform routine operator‑level maintenance on extrusion equipmentIdentify mechanical issues and escalate concerns as neededMaintain a clean, organized, and safe work areaTeamwork & CommunicationWork effectively as part of a three‑person extrusion teamCommunicate clearly and respectfully with teammates within the shift and across shiftsBe open to feedback, coaching, and continuous improvementLearn from experienced operators and apply constructive feedbackTraining & DevelopmentParticipate in an on‑the‑job training program led by highly experienced extrusion operatorsDemonstrate a willingness to learn, grow, and develop technical skillsTake ownership of learning equipment operation, troubleshooting, and best practicesRequirementsPhysical RequirementsAbility to stand and walk continuously throughout the shiftAbility to move up and down the extrusion line to monitor operationsAbility to perform all job duties safely while wearing required PPESafety & Facility StandardsFollow all safety procedures, including PPE requirements, machine operating rules, and safe lifting techniques. Maintain a clean, organized workstation aligned with 5S principles. Identify and report safety hazards, equipment issues, or process risks promptly. Handle materials, tools, and machines with care to prevent injuries or product damage. QualificationsRequired:Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with industrial equipmentAbility to work in a manufacturing environment for extended periodsStrong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detailAbility to work well in a team environmentWillingness to learn and accept constructive feedbackPreferred (Not Required):Prior extrusion or plastics manufacturing experienceExperience with flexible PVC or similar materials