Extruder Operator Trainee

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

Benefits offered by this job

Paid training

Competitive hourly pay

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

Westlake Chemical in Columbus, Ohio is seeking mechanically inclined individuals to join their manufacturing team as Extruder Operator Trainees. This position offers paid training and a competitive pay structure based on experience.

Candidates will learn to operate and maintain extrusion equipment, with no prior experience required. Additionally, there is a clear progression to skilled operator roles, ensuring long-term career opportunities and stability in a supportive environment.

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.

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.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Hands-on experience

Attention to detail

Basic computer skills

Job description

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.

Pay Structure

• Trainee: $22.50 per hour
• 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.

• 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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

Employee Application Instructions

If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here. You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.