Machine Operator

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Associate operates and maintains equipment on one or more extrusion lines.
• Associate must be able to run all products and lines without assistance and ensure extruder outputs are consistent with product specifications.
• Maintain quality assurance by inspecting finished product for consistency within established product quality specifications and by reviewing and testing all product on a scheduled basis.
• Ensure all testing equipment is in proper working order and reject all unacceptable product.
• Verify operational status of all equipment on assigned line according to start‑up check list.
• Maintain extruder and all peripheral line equipment settings (embosser, sterlco, dies, MRF, etc.) to produce outputs that are consistent with product specifications.
• Perform quality assurance responsibilities, including conducting a variety of tests on finished product to determine product quality within an established range of performance.
• Notify supervisory personnel of deviations for prompt and accurate correction.
• Communicate with Maintenance Department and Manufacturing Shift Supervisor about machine malfunctions.
• Perform preventive maintenance on most equipment on the production floor and maintain bar coders, if applicable.
• Demonstrate proficiency in extruder troubleshooting and basic mechanical repairs.
• Communicate with Manufacturing Shift Supervisor regarding raw materials needed to meet product specification.
• Ensure proper hook‑up of raw materials to extruder hopper.
• Perform all quality assurance procedures, including rejecting all out‑of‑specification product and placing questionable product on “hold” for disposition by management personnel; recommend 100% audit of line run or grind of product if indicated.
• Demonstrate the ability to start and maintain a production shift, delegating shift assignments and making necessary changes throughout the entire shift.
• Complete Train the Trainer certification class and attend the Basic Principles leadership class; demonstrate the ability and accept the responsibility of training all EA3's on their shift.
• Show leadership initiatives through involvement in teams or documented project work.
• Demonstrate the ability to run all products, all extrusion lines, and run multiple lines when required.
• Monitor Extrusion Associate 1s and 2s to ensure consistency and quality of product packed and application of proper packing techniques.
• Relieve line EA1s and EA2s for breaks.
• Perform all functions as outlined in the Extrusion Associate 4 job description.
• Punch time clock before and after shift to record time worked.
• Demonstrate knowledge of computers and common software (Word and Excel).
• Observe health and safety practices when handling bacon strips.
• Handle multiple tasks by establishing priorities and careful time management with minimal supervision; perform other related duties and assignments as required.
• Maintain supplies at workstation.
• Communicate with Material Handler(s) to move full warehouse racks.
• Aid with training of new personnel in extrusion and quality assurance areas.
• Assist with training of temporaries and new hires in Extrusion Associate 1s, 2s, 3s and 4s.
• Float to relieve Extrusion Associate 1s, 2s, 3s, and 4s for breaks.
• Attend weekly shift meetings and monthly All Hands Forum, if required.
• Actively participate in all plant safety programs, depending on location.
• Notify Supervisor if proper tools are not furnished to complete job functions.
• Assist with production equipment maintenance.

• High School Graduate/GED.
• Three years of directly related experience (e.g., EA3 and EA4) is required.
• Must be able to read, write and have working knowledge of machine mechanics.
• Good mechanical aptitude and above‑average math aptitude.
• Must possess common sense, positive attitude, and demonstrate excellent attendance.
• Must be quality and safety conscious and a team player.
• Must have good communication skills and be able to interact with people.
• Must have ability to operate computer and ten‑key as well as ability to use and read calipers and micrometers to within one thousandth of an inch.
• Must be able to work quickly with product and be able to lift up to 86 lbs on a…