Extrusion Machine Operator - Experienced

America Plastics•Knoxville, TN

About The Position

An Experienced Machine Operator operates extrusion equipment safely and efficiently to manufacture products to customer specifications. The role includes setting up equipment, monitoring and adjusting the process, correcting issues, and troubleshooting equipment or production problems. Operators may work on one of three Monday-through-Friday shifts: 1st Shift, 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; 2nd Shift, 2:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; or 3rd Shift, 10:30 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Weekends are off. Overtime is voluntary rather than mandatory. The starting wage is $15 per hour, up to $20 based on experience. Second- and third-shift differentials are $0.75 and $1.25 per hour, respectively.

Requirements

At least two years of related, definable experience in a manufacturing plant.
Excellent mechanical and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to understand safety protocols and minimize risk to oneself and others in the work environment.
Ability to read and interpret technical documents and drawings.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Two years of mechanical or technical training preferred.
Two or more years of prior experience as a Plastic Extrusion Operator or in a similar role preferred.

Responsibilities

Select, assemble, and install dies; calibrate machine settings such as temperature, pressure, and speed according to material specifications and product requirements.
Load raw materials, including pellets or powders, into the extrusion machine.
Collaborate with supporting staff, including engineering, packing, and management, to optimize production.
Assist with setting up and testing new lines.
Repair equipment when necessary and replace defective, broken, or worn components.
Select and install cutters, pullers, dies, and other equipment parts to maintain efficient machine operation.
Perform routine machine maintenance and troubleshooting.
Coordinate with warehouse team members to ensure raw materials and supplies are available when needed.
Comply with and maintain applicable ISO and safety policies and procedures.
Clean machines and the work area, process scraps through grinders, and track regrind amounts.
Set up and adjust dies and machines on an extrusion line to maintain safety, quality, and productivity standards.
Operate extrusion lines according to job safety analyses, standard operating procedures, quality procedures, and operator training to meet or exceed productivity requirements and minimize downtime and waste.
Comply with federal and state environmental, health, and safety regulations and company safety policies and protocols.
Assist in improving manufacturing processes to increase productivity and profitability.
Eliminate non-value-added operations by consolidating forms and processes.
Complete other assigned tasks.