Production Technician; End Plant

Brief Description

Our Waco, TX facility manufactures aluminum ends/lids for beverage cans commonly used for soft drinks, beers, energy drinks, teas and non-carbonated beverages. Using state‑of‑the‑art end‑making technology, this high‑speed environment provides rewarding manufacturing opportunities.

We are seeking versatile and high‑energy Production Technicians. This cross‑functional role is responsible for the operation, basic maintenance, and quality control of the three primary manufacturing stages:
Shell Press (metal forming), Compound Liner (sealing application), and Conversion Press (tab application and final shaping). Production Operators are expected to be multi‑skilled, rotating through different areas of the plant to ensure maximum operational flexibility and consistent product quality.

• Set up, adjust, and operate high‑speed shell presses (e.g., Minster or equivalent) to form aluminum shells from raw coil feeds and ensure continuous material flow according to established specifications.
• Oversee the application of sealing compounds to the shells; monitor pump pressures, nozzle alignment, and compound temperatures.
• Manage the final conversion process where tabs are formed and attached to shells; monitor high‑speed transfer systems and final product bagging/palletizing.
• Monitor machine performance, including speed, alignment, and lubrication, to ensure optimal efficiency and quality.

• Perform regular hourly quality inspections including visual checks for defects (scratches, dents, misalignments) and dimensional verifications using precision gauges.
• Utilize specialized testing equipment to check compound weights, score residual depths, and burst strengths to ensure compliance with customer specifications.
• Maintain accurate production logs and quality records; immediately report any out‑of‑specification trends to the Supervisor or Quality team.

• Safely clear machine jams and resets using established LOTO (Lock Out/Tag Out) procedures to minimize downtime.
• Assist the Tool Room and Maintenance teams during product changeovers, including cleaning machinery and prepping components.
• Perform basic preventative maintenance tasks, such as clearing aluminum scrap (shards), replenishing lubricants, and maintaining 5S cleanliness standards.

• Ensure machines are stocked with required materials (coils, compound, tabs, bags, and pallets).
• Safely operate pallet jacks and, if certified, forklifts to move finished goods and raw materials.
• Adhere to all safety protocols; maintain a zero‑accident mindset and report any near‑misses or hazardous conditions immediately.

• Accurately record production data, quality metrics, and maintenance activities on shift documentation and digital systems.
• Ability to read and understand technical manuals, blueprints, and standard operating procedures (SOP’s).

• 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.

• 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).

• Aptitude in spatial reasoning, attention to detail, and skilled craftsmanship.
• Mechanical aptitude and experience (work with machines and general tooling).
• Skilled in hand and power tool usage.
• Ability to operate heavy machinery.
• Ability to follow proper safety procedures.
• Use of precision measuring instruments.
• Working knowledge of all automation standard practices.
• Proactive and takes ownership to resolve problems and issues.
• Ability to work with employees from many different cultures and backgrounds.
• Strong…