Blown Film Extruder OperatorPosition Summary
We are seeking an experienced and reliable Blown Film Extruder Operator to operate and monitor blown film extrusion equipment used in the production of high-quality plastic film products. The successful candidate will be responsible for setting up and operating extrusion machinery, maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting equipment and process issues, and ensuring production targets are met safely and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
- Set up, operate, and monitor blown film extrusion lines according to production specifications.
- Adjust machine settings including temperatures, speeds, air flow, cooling, die settings, nip rolls, and haul-off to maintain product quality.
- Monitor film thickness, width, appearance, gauge variation, and other quality requirements throughout production.
- Perform resin and material changes, including loading and blending raw materials as required.
- Complete machine start-ups, shutdowns, changeovers, and roll changes safely and efficiently.
- Inspect finished film for defects such as gels, holes, wrinkles, bubbles, gauge variation, contamination, and poor winding.
- Make process adjustments to correct quality issues and minimize scrap.
- Troubleshoot extrusion, bubble stability, cooling, winding, and other process-related problems.
- Maintain accurate production, quality, scrap, and downtime records.
- Perform routine cleaning, housekeeping, and basic preventative maintenance around the extrusion line.
- Work closely with Production Supervisors, Quality Control, Maintenance, and other operators to resolve production issues.
- Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and lockout/tagout requirements.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
- Meet production schedules, quality standards, and efficiency targets.
- Assist with training and mentoring new operators when required.
- Perform other production-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications & Experience
- Previous experience operating a blown film extrusion line is preferred.
- Experience with polyethylene (PE), LLDPE, LDPE, HDPE, or similar plastic resins is an asset.
- Strong understanding of blown film extrusion processes and equipment.
- Ability to read and understand production specifications and quality requirements.
- Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot basic machine and process problems.
- Ability to use gauges, measuring equipment, and other production tools.
- Good attention to detail and commitment to producing consistent, high-quality film.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a production team.
- Good communication and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Previous experience in a plastics manufacturing environment is an asset.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during a shift.
- Ability to lift and move materials, rolls, and equipment as required.
- Ability to perform repetitive tasks and work around manufacturing machinery.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Ability to work in a warm manufacturing environment.
- Ability to safely perform manual material handling within company requirements.
Safety & Quality
The Blown Film Extruder Operator is expected to maintain a strong commitment to workplace safety and product quality. All operators must follow established safety procedures, properly use PPE, report unsafe conditions, and immediately communicate equipment or quality concerns to the appropriate supervisor.
Preferred Skills
- Blown film extrusion experience
- Machine setup and changeover experience
- Process troubleshooting
- Quality control inspection
- Mechanical aptitude
- Preventative maintenance awareness
- Basic computer/data-entry skills
- Ability to read production specifications
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
Working Conditions
This position is performed in a manufacturing/production environment and may involve exposure to heat, noise, plastic materials, moving machinery, and rotating equipment. The operator must be willing to work scheduled shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends, or overtime as required by production needs.
Pay: $18.00-$36.00 per hour
Work Location: In person