A person who operates and maintains machinery used in the extrusion process is known as an extruder operator. Extrusion is the process of drawing metals and thermoplastics together to form specific shapes and products like wires, tubes, hoses, and bars. Although no specific education is required to work as an extruder operator, many employers will expect the operator to have completed at least a high school education. Some on-the-job training is also required, and some employers may require an apprenticeship before someone can work as an extrusion equipment operator.
Because the sophistication of the machinery that an extruder operator operates has increased over time, it may be necessary to be retrained at some point during one’s career. Extruder operators must keep up with current and emerging technologies and techniques, as well as have a thorough understanding of safety procedures and practices. Many machines are computer-controlled, requiring the extruder operator to have at least basic computer skills; however, some machines are not computer-controlled and must be operated hand. The operator should be able to operate either type of machine with ease.
The extruder operator will most likely spend the majority of his or her day standing or otherwise moving. As a result, good physical conditioning will be required, though extreme physical fitness will not be required. Extrusion machines are usually found in large factories, which means that there will be a lot of noise; the operator may need to wear ear plugs, eye protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, and possibly even a hard hat. To ensure the operator’s and others’ safety in the workplace, all safety procedures must be followed at all times.
Extruder operators are frequently responsible for extrusion machine maintenance and repair. Before the operator is qualified to do so, he or she will usually need special training. Because regular machine maintenance can help prevent breakdowns, the operator will be in charge of such maintenance on a daily basis. If the machine fails, the operator must be able to accurately diagnose the problem and devise a strategy for resolving it. Although the operator may not be responsible for such diagnosis or repair in some situations because machine maintenance workers will do so, the operator will still need to be able to recognize when a problem arises.