Production Technician

Brief Description

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 operates and maintains high‑speed manufacturing equipment within a specific zone of the plant (Front End, Chemical/Washer, or Back End). This role focuses on meeting hourly production targets, ensuring strict quality standards, and performing rapid troubleshooting to keep the lines running. Because the plant operates as a continuous flow process, the technician must be critically available for shift work, including weekends, holidays, and overtime to ensure 24/7 operational continuity.

MACHINE OPERATION AND MONITORING

• Operate and monitor high‑speed machinery (cuppers, body makers, washers, decorators, inside sprays, neckers or palletizers) to ensure consistent throughput.
• Clear equipment jams and perform rapid restarts to minimize downtime.
• Replenish production materials, including aluminum coils, inks, coatings, and packaging supplies.
• Monitor machine performance indicators (speeds, temperatures, pressures) and make minor mechanical adjustments to maintain optimal flow.

QUALITY CONTROL & INSPECTION

• Perform regular visual inspections and manual quality checks (e.g., flange width, wall thickness, print registration) using precision gauges and micrometers.
• Identify and isolate defective products ("hosing") to prevent contaminated batches from reaching the palletizer.
• Document production data and quality test results accurately in the plant’s digital tracking system.

MAINTENANCE AND HOUSEKEEPING

• Perform basic preventative maintenance and cleaning of machinery during scheduled stops.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area according to 5S standards to ensure a safe and efficient environment.
• Assist Maintenance Technicians during major equipment overhauls or complex repairs.

SAFETY AND COMPLIANCE

• Strictly follow all safety protocols, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), Hearing Protection, and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Report any near‑misses or hazardous conditions immediately to the Area Manager.

Required

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or warehouse environment.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort working around large, high‑speed automated machinery.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods (up to 12 hours).
• Willingness to work any shift in a 24/7/365 continuous manufacturing environment.

Preferred

• Prior experience in metal forming, packaging, or high‑volume consumer goods (FMCG).
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma principles.
• Experience using precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers).

• Mechanical Aptitude:
  Strong ability to operate and adjust complex machinery with a focus on high precision.
• Precision Measurement:
  Proficiency in using precision measuring instruments (micrometers, calipers, specialized gauges).
• Detail Orientation:
  Exceptional focus on detail for identifying subtle structural, dimensional, and coating defects.
• Automation Familiarity:
  Basic understanding of automated packaging systems (Palletizers) and electronic inspection equipment.
• 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, Excel, Outlook, Google Workspace, and web‑site software.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Management maintains the…