Production Technician - Front End

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POSITION SUMMARY:

Our Waco, TX facility manufactures aluminum beverage cans commonly used for soft drinks, beers, energy drinks, teas and non-carbonated beverages. Using state of the art can-making technology, this high speed environment provides rewarding manufacturing opportunities. The Production Technician in the Front End Area is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining the high-speed equipment used in the initial stages of aluminum can manufacturing, specifically the Cupping Presses and Body Makers.

This role is critical for ensuring the production of high-quality aluminum cups and bodies at target rates while adhering to safety and quality standards.

• Operate Production Equipment:
  Directly run and monitor high-speed Cupping Presses (converting aluminum coil into cups) and Body Makers (drawing and ironing the cup into a can body).
• Process Control:
  Monitor machine control panels and gauges to ensure operations are within specified parameters (e.g., speed, pressure, temperature, lubricant application). Adjust settings as necessary to optimize performance and product quality.
• Material Handling:
  Load and thread aluminum coil into the Cupping Press. Manage the flow of cups from the Cupper to the Body Makers.
• Lubrication Systems:
  Monitor and maintain the proper function of lubrication and cooling systems essential for Body Maker operation.

• In-Process Checks:
  Perform frequent, detailed quality checks on cups and can bodies using precision measuring tools (e.g., micrometers, gauges, wall thickness testers).
• Defect Identification:
  Identify and troubleshoot common Front End defects, such as splits, pinholes, wrinkles, and deep drawing issues. Segregate and document non-conforming product.
• Documentation:
  Accurately record production data, downtime, quality metrics, and maintenance activities on shift logs and digital systems.

• Minor Adjustments and Tooling:
  Perform routine and preventative maintenance (PM) activities, including minor tooling changes, equipment adjustments, and component replacement (e.g., punches, dies, ironers).
• Troubleshooting:
  Quickly diagnose and resolve equipment jams, minor mechanical failures, and process interruptions to minimize downtime.
• Collaboration:
  
  Assist Maintenance Technicians and Tooling personnel during major setups, rebuilds, and complex troubleshooting.

• Safety Procedures:
  Strictly adhere to all plant safety rules, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, machine guarding protocols, and safe handling of lubricants and chemicals.
• Work Area Organization:
  Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment around the production lines and equipment.
• Continuous Improvement:
  Participate in team meetings and initiatives focused on improving safety, quality, and efficiency.

• Preferred – A Technical degree or the equivalent experience, defined as greater than 4 years of experience in a technical manufacturing continuous improvement environment
• Required – High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• Preferred – 1-3 years of experience operating high-speed manufacturing equipment, preferably in a metal forming, stamping, or can manufacturing environment.

• Strong mechanical aptitude and proven ability to operate, troubleshoot, and make minor repairs to complex, high-speed machinery.
• Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, specialized gauges).
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, production schedules, and safety instructions.
• Excellent attention to detail for identifying subtle product defects and quality deviations.
• Must be willing and able to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and overtime, as required.
• Ability to work with employees from many different cultures and backgrounds
• Preference will be given to qualified local candidates

• General knowledge of basic hardware and software and uses of a variety of different computer operating systems such as Microsoft Office Work,…