Extruder Operator

Nestlé; Solon (IA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k with company match

Healthcare coverage

Bonus eligibility

Job summary

Nestlé USA is hiring an Extruder/Blancher Technician in Iowa to set up, operate, monitor, and clean extrusion and blanching equipment for noodles and pasta products. You will ensure recipes are followed, maintain quality, and support production efficiency.

The role requires attention to safety, GMPs, and accurate documentation, with a 10PM–6:30AM shift, Monday–Friday plus one Sunday monthly OT. Pay is $27.28/hr, plus a $1.50/hr differential.

Qualifications

• Manufacturing experience preferred.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate documentation.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow written procedures and work instructions.
• Ability to recognize and respond to warning lights, alarms, instruments, and other indicators of unsafe or abnormal operating conditions.
• Working knowledge of food manufacturing, sanitation, and quality standards preferred.
• Ability to follow all chemical handling, sanitation, and safety procedures.
• Ability to work assigned shifts, including overtime and weekends as required.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, monitor, and tear down Extruder and Blancher equipment.
• Produce high-quality noodles and pasta products according to established recipes and specifications.
• Use industrial cleaners to sanitize equipment.
• Wear wet suit while cleaning and sanitizing extruder and blancher equipment.
• Complete all required production documentation accurately and timely.
• Enter, verify, and maintain required SAP system information.
• Perform washdowns and sanitation of assigned equipment and areas using approved chemicals, hoses, and cleaning equipment.
• Perform minor equipment adjustments and lubrication as needed.
• Follow all food safety, quality assurance, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence programs.
• Support a safe work environment by following all safety policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Quality focus

Food safety

Communication

Teamwork

Math skills

Attention to detail

Adaptability

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Hand tools

Cranes

Hoist

Job description

Foods you love. Brands you trust. And a career that empowers you to grow.
At Nestlé USA, we’re all working towards the same goal – to delight and deliver for our consumers. With a rich portfolio of beloved brands, including DiGiorno, Toll House, and Coffee mate, in 97% of U.S. households, we have a unique opportunity – and responsibility – to be there for every moment in our consumers’ lives.

Joining Nestlé means becoming part of an inclusive workplace that inspires innovation, encourages strategic thinking and creativity, and celebrates your achievements. No matter where you work within the organization, you are empowered to challenge the status quo, embrace risk-taking, and pioneer new ideas. Our supportive and collaborative environment encourages bold ambitions and continuous learning so that everyone can grow and thrive.
This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

The Extruder/Blancher Technician is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and cleaning extrusion and blanching equipment used in the production of noodles and pasta products. This role ensures products are manufactured according to recipe specifications, quality standards, food safety requirements, and production schedules. The Extruder/Blancher Technician plays a key role in maintaining product quality, maximizing yields, and supporting efficient production operations.

Compensation

Pay is $27.28/hr with a $1.50/hr shift differential

Shift Details

10PM to 6:30AM; Monday through Friday (ending Saturday morning) plus ONE Sunday (OT) required each month. More opportunities for OT as well.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, monitor, and tear down Extruder and Blancher equipment.
• Produce high-quality noodles and pasta products according to established recipes and specifications.
• Use industrial cleaners to sanitize equipment.
• Wear wet suit while cleaning and sanitizing extruder and blancher equipment.
• Complete all required production documentation accurately and timely.
• Enter, verify, and maintain required SAP system information.
• Perform washdowns and sanitation of assigned equipment and areas using approved chemicals, hoses, and cleaning equipment.
• Perform minor equipment adjustments and lubrication as needed.
• Follow all food safety, quality assurance, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence programs.
• Support a safe work environment by following all safety policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Manufacturing experience preferred.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate documentation.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow written procedures and work instructions.
• Ability to recognize and respond to warning lights, alarms, instruments, and other indicators of unsafe or abnormal operating conditions.
• Working knowledge of food manufacturing, sanitation, and quality standards preferred.
• Ability to follow all chemical handling, sanitation, and safety procedures.
• Ability to work assigned shifts, including overtime and weekends as required.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to quality and food safety.
• Ability to use hand tools, cranes and hoist.
• Basic math and production calculation skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to adapt to changing production priorities and schedules.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Willing and capable of wearing a wet suit while working.
• Frequent walking on the production floor.
• Occasional bending, stooping, lifting, pushing, and pulling.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally.

Requires repetitive hand and finger movements.

Ability to use both hands and legs regularly during job functions.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing and food production environment.
• Exposure to chemical vapors and cleaners (no mask required)
• Exposure to wet or humid conditions.
• Exposure to varying temperatures and production equipment.
• Frequent interaction with moving mechanical equipment.
• Exposure to noise typical of a manufacturing facility.
• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to all safety requirements.

Pay: $27.28 per hour

Bonus Eligibility: Yes

The pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to knowledge, skills and abilities as well as geographic location. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at top of range.

Nestlé offers performance-based incentives and a competitive total rewards package, which includes a 401k with company match, healthcare coverage and a broad range of other benefits. Incentives and/or benefit packages may vary depending on the position. Learn more at https://www.nestlejobs.com/nestle-in-the-us-benefits

It is our business imperative to remain a very inclusive workplace.
To our veterans and separated service members, you’re at the forefront of our minds as we recruit top talent to join Nestlé. The skills you’ve gained while serving our country, such as flexibility, agility, and leadership, are much like the skills that will make you successful in this role. In addition, with our commitment to an inclusive work environment, we recognize the exceptional engagement and innovation displayed by individuals with disabilities. Nestlé seeks such skilled and qualified individuals to share our mission where you’ll join a cohort of others who have chosen to call Nestlé home.

The Nestlé Companies are equal employment opportunity employers. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you may require any special accommodations in order to participate fully in our recruitment experience. Contact us at [e-mail] or please dial 711 and provide this number to the operator: 1-800-321-6467.

This position is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

Review our applicant privacy notice before applying at https://www.nestlejobs.com/privacy.

Job Requisition: 418193