Extrusion Technician – Manufacturing
Forum Contract Manufacturing is seeking an experienced and motivated Extrusion Technician to support the development and growth of our medical extrusion department. The ideal candidate will have hands‑on experience with plastic extrusion processes, particularly medical tubing and multi-lumen tubing manufacturing. This individual will play an important role in operating and troubleshooting extrusion equipment, supporting production, training team members, and helping establish efficient manufacturing processes.
Pay Range: $27.00 – $32.00 per hour
Job Description:
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Support and develop the new extrusion department within Forum Contract Manufacturing.
- Operate extrusion lines and train extrusion team members, including setup and material handling personnel.
- Provide input and support in developing costs for extrusion-related quoting, including tooling, development, and production costs.
- Troubleshoot and diagnose machinery issues.
- Provide input on tooling and die requirements for extrusion, including multi-lumen tooling and extrusions.
- Manage external and assigned internal projects, both independently and in collaboration with Project Managers.
- Develop and implement continuous improvement programs to improve overall operational productivity.
- Support management initiatives and participate in activities that contribute to improved business results.
- Develop and maintain positive working relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal departments.
- Ensure extrusion manufacturing processes adhere to the company’s quality system and applicable industry standards.
DUTIES
- Set up and prepare extrusion line(s) for production.
- Manage raw material inputs, including plastic resin pellets, to extrusion equipment.
- Adjust machine parameters such as temperature, line speed, screw speed, and other operating conditions.
- Perform machine startups, shutdowns, and changeovers between production runs.
- Perform visual and dimensional quality inspections using calipers, microscopes/magnifiers, and gage pins.
- Troubleshoot production issues such as inconsistent product dimensions, extrudate surface defects, and die buildup.
- Record production data and machine performance characteristics.
- Collect, handle, and package finished products, including tubing.
- Regularly clean dies and extrusion equipment.
- Maintain safety and housekeeping standards within the work area.
- Assist engineers with testing new materials and die configurations.
- Follow established company procedures and maintain accurate production documentation.
EDUCATION
- Bachelor’s degree in a science or technical field, or equivalent practical work experience.
- Problem-solving techniques or related technical training courses are a plus.
EXPERIENCE
- Minimum of 1 year of experience in extrusion operations, preferably with medical tubing and multi-lumen tubing manufacturing.
- Experience working within an ISO 13485:2016 quality system.
- Project Management experience is a plus.
- Working knowledge of SolidWorks 3D CAD and/or other engineering design programs is a plus.
- Knowledge of plastic extrusion processes and qualification requirements related to medical devices is a plus.
- Strong knowledge of safety procedures and policies.
- Knowledge of OSHA practices is desirable.
- Spanish speaking, reading, and writing ability is a plus.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Highly self‑motivated with a strong willingness to learn.
- Strong computer skills.
- Mechanically inclined with a technical mindset.
- Highly organized and detail‑oriented with a positive attitude.
- Ability to work well under pressure while maintaining close attention to detail.
- Strong sense of responsibility and accountability.
- Able to lead and participate in cross‑functional teams.
- Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Maintains a clean, safe, and orderly work environment.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIP
BENEFITS
- 401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Vision insurance
Short Term Disability
Life insurance
Paid time off
Professional development assistance
Tuition reimbursement