Bead-Production Operator

Yokohama Tire•West Point, MS

11h•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Bead Department Operator to join our tire manufacturing team. This role is responsible for operating and maintaining equipment across all three critical areas of the Bead Department: Bead Forming, Bead Covering, and Bead Filler. The ideal candidate will be safety-conscious, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment. To be considered for this opportunity, candidates must be willing and able to learn and work across all three areas. Flexibility, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety and quality are essential for success in this role.

Requirements

Working knowledge of high-speed equipment
Minor Troubleshooting
Ability to evaluate and complete quality checks and document results using data base collection system.
Ability to make product changeovers on various pieces of equipment.
Ability to make accurate measurements for the effective production of raw materials.
Ability to successfully operate overhead hoist lift.
Effective communication skills and teamwork.
At least High School graduate or GED equivalent
Ability to stand for long periods and lift, push and/or pull heavy objects. (50LBS or more)

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in tire manufacturing or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Operate bead forming machines to produce steel wire hoops used in tire construction.
Load and thread steel wire onto forming equipment.
Monitor machine settings for wire tension, diameter, and overlap alignment.
Inspect formed beads for shape consistency and wire splices (BIC and weight).
Perform minor adjustments and routine maintenance to prevent defects or downtime.
Weld wires together and operate overhead cranes.
Record production data and report abnormalities to maintenance or supervision.
Operate machines that wrap and bond fabric or rubber onto the formed steel bead.
Align covering materials to ensure uniform wrapping and coverage.
Monitor temperature and pressure to ensure proper bonding.
Trim excess material and inspect for cosmetic or structural defects.
Maintain proper material storage and labeling to prevent cross-contamination.
Keep machines and work areas clean and organized.
Feed bead filler strips (rubber compounds) into extruders for tire building.
Hand-stitch filler material to the covered bead, ensuring correct placement and bonding.
Set machine parameters based on bead size and specifications.
Visually inspect finished products for defects or air pockets.
Execute production plans to optimize manpower and machine productivity while minimizing scrap and foreign material.
Monitor and confirm the condition of all safety devices using routine safety checks.
Respond to downtime events by initiating countermeasures and following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and safety programs.
Complete shift reports, ensure proper turnover, and maintain traceability documentation.
Operate machines in compliance with safety standards, SOPs, and quality control plans.
Report unsafe conditions, defective work causes, and machine abnormalities promptly.
Maintain strong working relationships and proper equipment handling.
Adhere to company policies, including: 5S (A workplace organization method focusing on Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain) and EMS (Environmental Management System - A framework that helps manage environmental responsibilities efficiently and sustainably).