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.
SOC: 51-6091.00
Common Job Titles
Extruder Operator
Extrusion Line Operator
Extrusion Operator
Spindraw Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate extrusion and forming machines for synthetic and glass fiber production in manufacturing environments, monitoring process parameters and material flow.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate machine operations and material quality against production standards using precision measurement instruments including digital calipers, micrometers, and tensile testers.
Proficient
Hands-onCalibrate extrusion equipment settings and material feed systems adjusting temperature, pressure, and feed rates to optimize fiber formation.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze process data and quality control metrics using statistical process control software and manufacturing execution systems.
Developing
Hands-onPerform preventive maintenance and repair on mechanical extrusion equipment using hand tools, wrenches, and diagnostic instruments to minimize downtime.
Developing
KnowledgeDiagnose equipment malfunctions and process deviations through systematic troubleshooting and root cause analysis in production settings.
Developing
Hands-onHandle synthetic polymers, rayon, and fiberglass raw materials following safety protocols and material specifications during machine setup.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret production specifications, technical drawings, and machine readouts to ensure compliance with quality standards and production targets.
Developing
MindsetEngage with team members and supervisors on production issues and safety concerns coordinating shift activities and communicating equipment status.
Developing
Hands-onExecute machine startup, shutdown, and changeover procedures following established protocols to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
14,900
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,590. 25th percentile: U.S. $38,990. 50th percentile: U.S. $44,980. 75th percentile: U.S. $54,690. 90th percentile: U.S. $63,650. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$35,590
10% of workers earn the following or more
$63,650
Workers on average earn
$47,420
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Production and Processing3.7/5
English Language3.2/5
Mathematics3.1/5
Education and Training3.1/5
Mechanical3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
