Extruder Operator Trainee

Westlake Chemical Corp.; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 26,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Westlake Royal Building Products is seeking mechanically inclined individuals to join our manufacturing team as Extruder Operator Trainees. No prior extrusion experience is required; we provide comprehensive training.

What matters most is mechanical aptitude and a willingness to learn, with pride in producing quality work. During training you will learn to operate and maintain extrusion equipment and progress into a full Extrusion Operator role, with structured steps and hands-on guidance from

Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience with machines or vehicles.
• Willingness to learn and grow into a skilled operator role.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Basic computer skills for recording and tracking.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Set up and tear down extrusion lines, including die installation and changeovers.
• Start-up equipment and produce quality finished products.
• Monitor machines, troubleshoot issues, and make adjustments.
• Use hand tools and measuring equipment (micrometers, fixtures, gauges).
• Accurately track production, quality, and downtime.
• Maintain safety, housekeeping, and quality standards.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Willingness to learn

Attention to detail

Basic computer skills

Reading & writing

Job description

Pay Structure: $22.50 per hour

Increases as you progress through training and qualification milestones
Night Shift Premium: +$2.00 per hour
Training: Paid, structured, hands-on (up to 12 months)

Do you enjoy working with machines? Fixing things? Working on vehicles, rebuilding engines, or figuring out how equipment works?

We are seeking mechanically inclined individuals to join our manufacturing team as Extruder Operator Trainees. No prior extrusion experience is required - we provide comprehensive training. What matters most is mechanical aptitude, a willingness to learn, and pride in producing quality work.

What You’ll Learn & Do

With guidance from experienced operators, you will learn to safely operate and maintain extrusion equipment and progress into a full Extrusion Operator role.

You will learn how to:

• Set up and tear down extrusion lines, including die installation and changeovers
• Start-up equipment and produce quality finished products
• Monitor machines, troubleshoot issues, and make adjustments
• Use hand tools and measuring equipment (micrometers, fixtures, gauges)
• Accurately track production, quality, and downtime
• Maintain safety, housekeeping, and quality standards (VSI certification)
• Work as part of a team and eventually help guide others

Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude and hands-on experience (work, shop, vehicles, or home projects)
• Willingness to learn and grow into a skilled operator role
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Basic computer skills
• Prior manufacturing or extrusion experience preferred, but not required

Pay, Growth & Stability

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience
• Paid training with experienced operators
• Clear career progression: Trainee → Extrusion Operator
• Stable manufacturing environment with long-term career opportunities

Our compensation reflects market conditions across multiple U.S. locations and is based on experience, skill set, and job-related knowledge. Westlake Royal Building Products is a total compensation company offering competitive pay and a full benefits package.

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.