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

Extruding and Forming Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Synthetic and Glass Fibers is the O*NET name for people who set up, operate, or tend machines that extrude and form continuous filaments from synthetic materials, such as liquid polymer, rayon, and fiberglass. Its interest code is RCI. Realistic leads at 6.5 out of 7, so expect hands-on work with tools, machines or the physical world, with Conventional next at 4.1. The preparation level is some preparation, typically a few months to a year of learning on the job. O*NET’s skill data points to operations monitoring, operation and control, and monitoring as the ones to build. The job can ask you to set up, operate, or tend machines that extrude and form filaments from synthetic materials such as rayon, fiberglass, or liquid polymers. People who want hands-on work with tools, machines or the physical world usually fit better here than those who need helping, teaching or caring for people.

What they do

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

Main tasks

  • Set up, operate, or tend machines that extrude and form filaments from synthetic materials such as rayon, fiberglass, or liquid polymers.
  • Press buttons to stop machines when processes are complete or when malfunctions are detected.
  • Notify other workers of defects, and direct them to adjust extruding and forming machines.
  • Observe machine operations, control boards, and gauges to detect malfunctions such as clogged bushings and defective binder applicators.
  • Load materials into extruding and forming machines, using hand tools, and adjust feed mechanisms to set feed rates.
  • Move controls to activate and adjust extruding and forming machines.

Skills

  • Operations Monitoring
  • Operation and Control
  • Monitoring
  • Time Management
  • Speaking
  • Quality Control Analysis

Who this career fits

May suit you if

  • You like ending the day with a physical result you can point to.
  • You like clear rules and getting the details right.
  • You want to start work after a short stretch of training.
  • You are comfortable relying on operations monitoring and operation and control.

May not suit you if

  • You would rather stay away from physical, hands-on tasks.
  • You want helping people to be at the center of your work. Social rates 1.2 out of 7 here.
  • You want a career built on years of advanced study.

Interest profile

O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code RCI takes the three highest, and Realistic comes first here.

Preparation

Some preparation. Most people start with a high school diploma, then learn from experienced coworkers over a few months to a year.

Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED). This reflects what workers reported most often and is not a legal minimum. Licensing rules can differ by state or industry, so confirm what applies where you plan to work.

Also called

  • Extruder
  • Extruder Operator
  • Extrusion Line Operator
  • Extrusion Operator
  • Granulator

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.