Extruder Operator Trainee

Westlake Chemical Corporation; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 30,996 - 41,341; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid training

Clear career progression

Competitive hourly pay

Job summary

Westlake Chemical Corporation in Columbus, Ohio, is looking for Extruder Operator Trainees who love working with machines and are eager to learn. This role offers hands-on training with experienced operators, leading to opportunities for career advancement as a full Extrusion Operator.

You will receive competitive hourly pay starting at $22.50, along with benefits, in a stable manufacturing environment. Ideal candidates should possess mechanical aptitude, a willingness to learn, and attention to detail.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with mechanical tasks, whether through work, shop, vehicles, or home projects.
• Willingness to learn and grow into a skilled operator role.
• Ability to communicate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate and maintain extrusion equipment.
• Learn to set up and tear down extrusion lines.
• Monitor machines and troubleshoot issues.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Basic computer skills

Job description

Pay Structure:

Trainee: $22.50 per hour

For Experienced Extruder Operators: $24.00– $30.01 per hour, based on experience and demonstrated skill

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