Extruder Operator

Overview:

Responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining extrusion machines to produce plastic films and materials used for flexible packaging. This role ensures the production process runs smoothly, meets quality specifications, and operates within safety and environmental standards.

Minimum requirements:

• Grade 12
• 3 years experience in blown film extrusion operations, in the flexible packaging industry.
• Familiarity with extrusion machines, dies, and plastic material properties (especially flexible films).
• Knowledge of machine controls, adjustments, and basic mechanical troubleshooting.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, and quality specifications.
• Physical ability to lift heavy materials, stand for long periods, and work in noisy or high-temperature environments.
• Shift Work: Operators are required to work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends

Responsibilities:

Machine Setup & Operation:

• Set up and operate extrusion machines to produce plastic films (polyethylene, polypropylene, etc.) for flexible packaging.
• Adjust machine settings (temperature, pressure, speed, etc.) to ensure proper extrusion of plastic materials. Monitor machine operations and control parameters during production to maintain optimal extrusion quality.

Quality Control

• Conduct periodic quality checks during the extrusion process (e.g., measure film thickness, tensile strength, and surface properties).
• Record production data such as material weights, machine parameters, and quality test results.
• Ensure extruded products meet customer specifications and internal standards before passing to the next production stage.

Process Monitoring and Adjustment:

• Regularly inspect and test extruded materials to ensure they meet specified quality standards such as thickness, width, color, and clarity.
• Make real-time adjustments to the machine controls as needed to ensure consistent product quality.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot operational issues such as die lines, air bubbles, thickness variations, and other material defects.

Material Handling and Documentation:

• Load raw materials such as resin pellets and additives into the machine hoppers.
• Track and record material usage, wastage, and production output for reporting.
• Ensure efficient use of materials to minimize waste and optimize productivity.

Safety and Compliance:

• Follow all safety protocols, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ensure all activities comply with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Identify and report any safety hazards or incidents to the supervisor immediately.