PLASTIC EXTRUSION MACHINE OPERATOR II

Position Title: Plastic Extrusion Machine Operator II
Department: Manufacturing/Production
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Shift: First Shift (6:00am - 2:00pm), Monday - Friday
Employment Type: Temp-to-Hire

POSITION SUMMARY

Independently operate, set up, and maintain multiple plastic extrusion machines to produce quality products efficiently. Perform advanced troubleshooting, optimize machine performance, and maintain strict adherence to safety and quality standards using 6S principles.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Advanced Machine Operation:

Independently set up, calibrate, and operate multiple plastic extrusion machines with minimal supervision
Perform complex die changeovers and adjust parameters (temperature, speed, pressure) to meet specifications
Optimize machine settings to maximize efficiency and minimize waste
Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and work instructions
Monitor multiple machines simultaneously and troubleshoot production issues in real-time

Maintenance & Troubleshooting:

Perform preventive maintenance according to maintenance schedules
Conduct intermediate electrical and mechanical troubleshooting to diagnose failures
Implement corrective actions to resolve malfunctions and minimize downtime
Replace worn parts and machine components
Document maintenance activities and recommend process improvements

Quality Control & Process Optimization:

Conduct in-process inspections using precision measuring tools
Identify root causes of defects and implement corrective actions
Make real-time parameter adjustments to maintain product consistency
Separate defective products for reprocessing
Monitor production data and maintain optimal OEE
Participate in continuous improvement and process optimization projects

Material Handling & Production Support:

Prepare and stage raw materials according to production schedules
Operate forklifts to transport materials between work areas
Verify product counts and ensure order completion accuracy
Load/unload materials from machines and conveyors
Mark and tag identification on parts per specifications

Documentation & Safety:

Record production data, quality checks, and maintenance activities
Maintain work areas following 6S principles
Follow all safety protocols and OSHA guidelines
Wear required PPE and conduct pre-shift safety inspections
Train and mentor less experienced operators

QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Experience:

High School Diploma or GED required
2-5 years of plastic extrusion machine operation experience required
Proven experience with machine setup, die changes, and parameter adjustments
Demonstrated troubleshooting and maintenance experience with extrusion equipment
Experience with automated production equipment

Required Skills:

Strong mechanical aptitude with hands-on troubleshooting capabilities
Proficient in reading blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications
Advanced understanding of machine parameters and their impact on product quality
Ability to use precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges)
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
Excellent attention to detail and quality standards
Basic computer skills for data entry and production reporting
Forklift operation experience (certification preferred)

Preferred:

OSHA safety training or certifications
Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or 6S methodologies
Experience training other operators

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Lift up to 50 pounds regularly, occasionally up to 75 pounds
Stand and walk for 8-10 hour shifts
Bend, stoop, kneel, and reach for machine operation and maintenance
Work in manufacturing environment with moderate to high noise and temperature variations
PPE required: safety glasses, steel-toe boots, hearing protection