Extrusion Operating Technician

Extrusion Operating Technician Join an innovative materials technology company developing advanced polymer and additive solutions for industrial applications. This is a hands-on technical role supporting material development and scale-up activities through polymer compounding, extrusion processing and material preparation. Working within a small-batch R&D facility, you'll support the delivery of development trials, process optimisation projects and new material innovations. What you'll be doing:

• Setting up, operating and shutting down twin-screw compounding extrusion lines for development trials.
• Preparing, weighing and blending raw materials, additives and pigments to formulation specifications.
• Monitoring and adjusting processing parameters including temperature, screw speed, feed rates and vacuum.
• Operating pelletising, drying, mixing and pulverising equipment to produce development samples.
• Carrying out equipment changeovers, cleaning activities and contamination control procedures.
• Supporting routine maintenance, equipment inspections and first-line troubleshooting.
• Receiving, storing and handling materials whilst maintaining traceability records.
• Maintaining accurate process documentation and production records.
• Following SOPs, quality standards and health & safety procedures at all times.
• Collaborating with scientists and engineers to support material development programmes. What you'll need:
• Industry experience operating twin-screw compounding extrusion equipment.
• Understanding of extrusion and compounding process variables and their impact on product quality.
• Experience preparing formulations and weighing materials to specification.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and confidence working with technical equipment.
• Good organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and follow technical procedures.
• Strong awareness of health, safety and housekeeping standards.
• Ability to work independently within a fast-paced R&D environment. Nice to have:
• Experience within masterbatch, additive or specialty polymer compounding.
• Experience working with pigments, fillers or additive dispersion processes.
• Experience operating pulverising, milling or drying equipment.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 or similar quality management systems.
• Relevant qualification in Polymer Processing, Engineering or Applied Science.
• Forklift, pallet truck or other material handling equipment certification. What's in it for you?
• Full-time permanent position.
• Opportunity to contribute to innovative materials technology research and development programmes.
• Exposure to cutting-edge polymer and additive development projects.
• Collaborative and fast-paced technical environment.
• Competitive salary and benefits package. What's Next?