Extrusion Line Engineer

Role overview

We are looking for an experienced Extrusion Line Engineer to support a long-established manufacturing business in Waterlooville, within the Greater Portsmouth area. This is a practical, on-the-floor engineering position focused on preparing, running, refining, and monitoring extrusion lines so production remains safe, efficient, and consistently high in quality.

The role is central to maintaining stable output, lowering downtime, and improving product consistency. You will work closely with engineering, toolroom, and production colleagues to keep equipment performing effectively and to help with trials and process upgrades.

Core duties

• Prepare, start, adjust, and shut down extrusion lines as required.
• Fit and align dies, tooling, calibrators, and downstream equipment.
• Fine-tune process conditions such as temperature, screw speed, pressure, line speed, and cooling settings.
• Carry out first-off inspections and document all process settings accurately.
• Investigate and resolve production issues including dimensional variation, surface flaws, and material inconsistency.
• Work to reduce waste, improve line efficiency, and maintain repeatable processes.
• Assist with preventative maintenance and report any breakdowns promptly.
• Collaborate with Toolroom and Engineering teams on tooling and process improvements.
• Check that finished products meet quality and dimensional standards.
• Keep accurate records of process values and quality checks.
• Support new product trials and continuous improvement activities.
• Follow all health and safety procedures at all times.

Experience and technical background

Applicants should have prior experience setting up and operating plastic extrusion lines, along with a solid understanding of polymer behaviour and extrusion methods. You should be able to read engineering drawings, have practical mechanical skills, and feel comfortable working with tooling. Experience in high-volume or continuous manufacturing settings is also important.

Additional desirable background

It would be an advantage to have a qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Processing, or a similar subject. Familiarity with calibration tanks, haul-offs, cutters, slitters, or winders would also be useful. Experience with Lean or Continuous Improvement methods such as 5S, SMED, and OEE, as well as working in an ISO 9001 environment, is desirable. Forklift or overhead crane certification would be a bonus.

Personal qualities

The ideal candidate will be practical, detail-focused, comfortable in a fast-moving production environment, and able to work well with others. A proactive mindset, a commitment to safety, and a strong focus on product quality are important.

Pay and opportunity

The position offers pay of £20.00 per hour and is a full-time, onsite opportunity with a well-established manufacturer. The role also provides the chance to contribute to process improvements and support new product trials as part of a supportive engineering and production team.