Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers

Set up, operate, or tend machines that extrude and form continuous filaments from synthetic materials, such as liquid polymer, rayon, and fiberglass.

Median Annual Wage: $32,970

Education: High school diploma or equivalent (92%); Post-secondary certificate (8%)

Projected Growth: Decline (-3% or lower)

Related Job Titles: Process Technician; Process Operator; Control Room Operator; Extruder Operator; Extrusion Operator; Spindraw Operator; Extrusion Line Operator; Hot End Operator; Line Technician; Pelletizer Operator

Browse Job Listings

Browse Schools

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers.

More Production Careers

  • Set up, operate, or tend machines that extrude and form filaments from synthetic materials such as rayon, fiberglass, or liquid polymers.
  • Load materials into extruding and forming machines, using hand tools, and adjust feed mechanisms to set feed rates.
  • Start metering pumps and observe operation of machines and equipment to ensure continuous flow of filaments extruded through spinnerettes and to detect processing defects.
  • Move controls to activate and adjust extruding and forming machines.
  • Record details of machine malfunctions.
  • Notify other workers of defects, and direct them to adjust extruding and forming machines.
  • Press buttons to stop machines when processes are complete or when malfunctions are detected.
  • Observe flow of finish across finish rollers, and turn valves to adjust flow to specifications.
  • Observe machine operations, control boards, and gauges to detect malfunctions such as clogged bushings and defective binder applicators.
  • Open cabinet doors to cut multifilament threadlines away from guides, using scissors.
  • Press metering-pump buttons and turn valves to stop flow of polymers.
  • Remove polymer deposits from spinnerettes and equipment, using silicone spray, brass chisels, and bronze-wool pads.
  • Clean and maintain extruding and forming machines, using hand tools.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers.

  • Operation and Control - Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Equipment Maintenance - Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
  • Quality Control Analysis - Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Repairing - Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
  • Judgment and Decision Making - Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers.

Search Local Job Listings