Senior Extrusion Operator – Manufacturing | Sunderland What's on Offer Salary: £34,369.22 per annum (including shift allowance) Contract: Permanent Shift Pattern: Continental shift pattern Days & Nights, 12 hour shifts Holiday: 23.5 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year up to a maximum of 25.5 days Location: Sunderland A leading manufacturing organisation is seeking a skilled and dedicated Senior Extrusion Operator to join its high-performing production team. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced operator to build a long-term career within a fast-paced, safety-focused extrusion environment. The Role The Senior Extrusion Operator will play a key role in the setup, operation, and ongoing optimisation of extrusion lines, drying and blending equipment, and offline granulation machinery. Working as part of a collaborative team, the successful candidate will ensure all products meet exacting quality standards, complete production documentation, and contribute to the continuous improvement of manufacturing processes. This is a hands-on role that also involves supporting quality testing, training colleagues, and maintaining a safe and hygienic workplace. Key Responsibilities Set up, operate, and monitor extrusion, drying, blending, and granulation equipment Ensure products consistently meet specifications, making real-time adjustments as needed Complete production checks and documentation accurately Wrap and prepare finished products for dispatch Carry out and support quality tests and measurements Maintain high standards of housekeeping and participate in hygiene audits Promote and uphold safe working practices Support and train other team members as required Assist with pallet movement and other general duties About You The ideal candidate will be a proactive and reliable team player with a strong focus on safety, quality, and continuous improvement. They will demonstrate: A good standard of general education with strong numeracy and literacy skills At least 2 years' experience in extrusion manufacturing or a similar production environment Sound operational knowledge of extrusion processes and machine operation Experience in continuous improvement initiatives and breakdown handling A current counterbalance forklift licence