Extruder Operator Trainee

Westlake Chemical; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 31,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid training

Career progression

Night shift premium

Job summary

Westlake Chemical in Columbus, OH, is seeking mechanically inclined individuals to join our manufacturing team as Extruder Operator Trainees. No prior extrusion experience is required — we provide comprehensive training.

You will learn to safely operate and maintain extrusion equipment and progress into a full Extrusion Operator role. You’ll start with structured, hands-on training (up to 12 months) and work toward becoming a skilled operator, monitoring lines, performing changeovers, and

Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn as primary requirements.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.
• Basic computer skills and comfort with measuring tools.

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 (VSI certification).
• Work as part of a team and help guide others.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Effective communication

Basic computer skills

Education

VSI certification

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 hourFor Experienced Extruder Operators: $22.46 – $29.14 per hour, based on experience and demonstrated skillIncreases as you progress through training and qualification milestonesNight Shift Premium: +$2.00 per hourTraining: 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 & DoWith 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 changeoversStart-up equipment and produce quality finished productsMonitor machines, troubleshoot issues, and make adjustmentsUse hand tools and measuring equipment (micrometers, fixtures, gauges)Accurately track production, quality, and downtimeMaintain safety, housekeeping, and quality standards (VSI certification)Work as part of a team and eventually help guide othersQualificationsMechanical aptitude and hands-on experience (work, shop, vehicles, or home projects)Willingness to learn and grow into a skilled operator roleAbility to read, write, and communicate effectivelyAttention to detail and commitment to qualityBasic computer skillsPrior manufacturing or extrusion experience preferred, but not requiredPay, Growth & StabilityCompetitive hourly pay based on experiencePaid training with experienced operatorsClear career progression: Trainee Extrusion OperatorStable manufacturing environment with long-term career opportunitiesOur 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.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.