Recycle Operator

The Grinding Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of grinding equipment during assigned shifts. Reporting to the Shift Supervisor, this role oversees all aspects of grinder operation and maintains the cleanliness, organization, and safety of the grinding room. The operator ensures material quality, equipment performance, and adherence to process specifications.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate, start up, and shut down grinding equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures
• Monitor and adjust machine settings as needed in coordination with the Shift Supervisor and within established process specifications
• Inspect product quality to ensure compliance with company standards
• Verify that the grinder is supplied with the correct raw materials at all times
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the grinding room in accordance with housekeeping standards
• Follow all safety policies and procedures and maintain accountability for safe work practices

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• 1–3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment preferred
• Experience with extrusion, plastics, SPC flooring, or PVC compounding strongly preferred

Skills & Competencies

• Ability to follow detailed work instructions, material formulations, and batch processes
• Basic math and measurement skills
• Experience operating industrial processing or grinding equipment
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on quality control
• Ability to work safely around powders, chemicals, and mechanical equipment
• Forklift experience preferred
• Strong teamwork and communication skills

Physical Requirements

• Ability to frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
• Prolonged periods of standing, walking, bending, and repetitive movement
• Occasional climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including a respirator, for extended periods
• Exposure to airborne particles, moving mechanical parts, and vibration
  
  Ability to work in high-noise environments

Work Environment

This position operates in an industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to raw material powders, heavy machinery, and elevated noise levels. The facility is not climate-controlled and may experience hot temperatures in the summer and cold temperatures in the winter. Employees are expected to adhere to all safety and housekeeping standards.