Machine Operator

Job Description Job purpose

The Extrusion Machine Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring extrusion equipment to ensure efficient production of high-quality products in compliance with safety and quality standards. This role requires attention to detail, adherence to established procedures, and collaboration with team members to meet production goals. The position reports to the Plant Manager, Production Manager, or Production Supervisor and is classified as an hourly role.

• Reviews work orders and specifications to verify that the correct equipment, properly trained personnel, packaging supplies, and raw materials are available to produce products that meet customer requirements.
• Assists with equipment set‑up under the direction of the Lead Operator or designated personnel. Set‑ups may include, but are not limited to, the following production equipment:
  Extruder, die, and tower to establish film dimensions and thickness;
  Treater stations to prepare film surfaces;
  In‑line bag machines to set film dimensions and characteristics;
  Winders to control film dimensions and characteristics;
  Post gusseter to set film dimensions;
  Folder to configure film dimensions;
  In‑line press for printed film;
  Separator to separate film.
• Periodically inspects finished film on production lines and takes immediate corrective action to address any substandard product.
• Assists in training team members on proper operating procedures, safety protocols, and quality standards under the direction of the Lead Operator.
• Verifies materials and supplies are available and meet specifications before production begins.
• Ensures accurate documentation of production data, including output, downtime, and quality checks.
• Coordinates with maintenance and quality teams to resolve equipment or product issues promptly.
• Trains new operators on machine operation, safety procedures, and quality standards.
• Maintains a clean and organized work area in compliance with safety and housekeeping standards.
• Follows all safety policies and procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for success in this role. The individual must have full operational knowledge of all equipment within the department, including the ability to start, set up, operate, and adjust such equipment.

A clean attendance record and no disciplinary actions within the past twelve (12) months are required. Additionally, the individual must be willing and able to work outside their scheduled shift as needed to meet production demands.

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• 2‑5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in extrusion production or similar operations.

• Strong communication skills and ability to lead and train team members.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams.

• Must be fluent in English with strong communication and interpersonal skills; bilingual ability is a plus.

• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to perform basic math calculations (add, subtract, multiply, divide) using whole numbers, fractions, and decimals.
• Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
• Ability to resolve problems involving several concrete variables.

• Ability to work overtime, holidays, weekends, and 12‑hour shifts (day or night) as needed.

• Ability to stand, sit, kneel, bend, stoop, climb, reach, and crawl for extended periods multiple times per day.
• Manual dexterity involving wrist action, twisting, pulling, and raising arms at or above shoulder height.
• Ability to work in warm, humid, and cool climates for extended periods.
• Ability to wear required personal…