The Extruding Machine Operator job function is to set up, operate, or tend machines that extrude and form continuous filaments from synthetic materials, such as liquid polymer, rayon, and fiberglass.

Objectives:

The Extruding Machine Operator removes excess, entangled, or completed filaments from machines, using hand tools. The Extruding Machine Operator sets up, operates, or tends machines that extrude and form filaments from synthetic materials such as rayon, fiberglass, or liquid polymers. The Extruding Machine Operator loads materials into extruding and forming machines, using hand tools, and adjust feed mechanisms to set feed rates. The Extruding Machine Operator starts metering pumps and observes operation of machines and equipment to ensure continuous flow of filaments extruded through spinnerets and to detect processing defects. The Extruding Machine Operator moves controls to activate and adjust extruding and forming machines. The Extruding Machine Operator records details of machine malfunctions. The Extruding Machine Operator notifies other workers of defects, and directs them to adjust extruding and forming machines. The Extruding Machine Operator presses buttons to stop machines when processes are complete or when malfunctions are detected. The Extruding Machine Operator observes flow of finish across finish rollers, and turn valves to adjust flow to specifications. The Extruding Machine Operator observes machine operations, control boards, and gauges to detect malfunctions such as clogged bushings and defective binder applicators.

Activities

The Extruding Machine Operator job function includes that of communicating with supervisors, peers, or subordinates any important information and the progress of the job that he is working on. They must provide information to all supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by the use of telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person. Communication is the key to most job functions and it helps to keep everything working in the right order. The Extruding Machine Operator performs physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and the movement of the whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials. The Extruding Machine Operator uses control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes not including computers or vehicles. The Extruding Machine Operator uses hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.

The Extruding Machine Operator analyzes information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems. The Extruding Machine Operator monitors and reviews information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems. The Extruding Machine Operator assesses the value, importance, or quality of things or people. The Extruding Machine Operator services, repairs, adjust, and tests machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical not electronic principles. The Extruding Machine Operator uses relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Skills and Abilities

The Extruding Machine Operators need the knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. They also need the knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods. The Extruding Machine Operators perform routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed. The Extruding Machine Operators watch gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly. The Extruding Machine Operators watch gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly. The Extruding Machine Operators determine causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it. The Extruding Machine Operators must give 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. The Extruding Machine Operator must understand written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents. The Extruding Machine Operator uses logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems. The Extruding Machine Operator must have the ability to select the right instructional materials and methods that is appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things about the job function. They also must conduct tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performances.