Machine Operator (extrusion) 1st shift

Americhem•Morrisville, PA

7h•$21 - $23

About The Position

Americhem is hiring an Extrusion Operator to process non-complex color compounds according to product specifications and procedures. The operator sets up, operates, monitors, troubleshoots, cleans, and maintains extrusion and pelletizing equipment, working under the direction of a team leader or Level 3 co-worker. The position is located in Morrisville, Pennsylvania. The first shift runs Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; training must also be completed on first shift. Starting pay is $21 per hour, plus a $1.75 shift differential. The position is non-exempt. The role involves preparing materials and equipment, producing and checking compound samples and pellets, adjusting machine settings, documenting production information, and preparing finished containers for shipment. It also includes inspecting and cleaning machinery, identifying maintenance needs, maintaining a clean work area, following safety and environmental procedures, and contributing to continuous-improvement efforts and team goals.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Knowledge of materials, methods, equipment, machines, and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Knowledge of production processes and techniques used to manufacture products effectively.
Knowledge of compound formulation and ability to evaluate color, including hue, chroma, and shade.
Knowledge of customer-service principles and processes, including assessing customer needs, service-quality standards, and evaluating customer satisfaction.
Knowledge of equipment, policies, and procedures that support personnel and property safety.
Fundamental knowledge of quality controls and continuous-improvement applications.
Knowledge and application of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
Computer literacy, including information and data-management systems, electronic equipment, and software such as Microsoft Suite and Oracle.
Valid driver's license and reliable automobile transportation.
Tow Motor Forklift certification.

Nice To Haves

One to two years of relevant manufacturing or production work experience.

Responsibilities

Follow safety procedures, make sound safety decisions, participate in safety programs, and contribute to safety improvements.
Transport materials, tools, and equipment safely using hoists, carts, dollies, or other equipment.
Check work assignments, verify product identification, and retrieve the work binder and labor sheet with specifications.
Prepare the production area and retrieve the color mix and appropriate dies, screws, and cutting blades.
Determine machine setup with a team leader or Level 3 co-worker by reviewing product specifications.
Set up or change over the extruder, including setting feed rate and temperature, entering specifications, attaching the correct die and pelletizer blade, and setting up the extruder screen and Gala water temperature.
Install, replace, and change machine parts and attachments to meet work-order specifications.
Use a tow motor to lift and position the color pot and add the color mix to the feeder.
Produce compound samples to specification using extrusion and production equipment, devices, and instruments.
Run compound through the extruder and pelletizer, Gala or cooling trough, and sizing screens into a shipping container, with guidance from a team leader or Level 3 co-worker.
Check pellet quality under guidance, including confirming that samples do not have a salt-and-pepper mix of light and dark pellets.
Reprocess pellets that do not meet color specifications by remixing and rerunning them through an injection-molding or extruder machine.
Retrieve suitable drums or totes and print barcoded shipping labels for product containers.
Adjust machine settings and functional parts during production to maintain product quality, and record changes on the labor sheet.
Monitor production, troubleshoot issues affecting product quality, and report problems or operating errors to a team leader or Level 3 co-worker.
Use mathematical calculations to adjust processes and troubleshoot production errors, including feed-speed issues.
Complete production documentation, update work boards, attach specification sheets and shipping labels, and move finished containers to the shipping area.
Prepare production reports by collecting and summarizing information and trends on production checklists.
Document processing specifications and labor hours using computer screens, reports, forms, and logs.
Move completed material to shipping using a tow motor and return the work binder to its proper place.
Check, clean, lubricate, adjust, and repair extruders, mixers, feeders, pelletizers, and related equipment under guidance.
Document machine error messages and visual-inspection findings and communicate equipment problems to a team leader or Level 3 co-worker.
Investigate potential equipment problems by observing and listening to operating machinery and using precision measuring and testing instruments; notify the appropriate team leader or co-worker.
Tear down and clean extruders and dies between batches using hand tools, cleaning solution, or other equipment.
Maintain written records or logs of calibrations and speeds to document machine performance and material produced.
Identify equipment requiring repair or maintenance, inspect or test damaged parts, and notify the team leader and maintenance.
Provide mechanical maintenance information in response to management and maintenance questions and requests.
Suggest improvements to working conditions and equipment use that may improve production efficiency and effectiveness.
Respond to inquiries, complaints, and requests promptly and professionally to support positive working relationships.
Keep the work area clean and organized, disposing of material, worn machine parts, and other refuse.
Meet quality-system, safety, and environmental requirements, including safe equipment operation, required personal protective equipment, and safety training.
Participate in continuous-improvement teams and help implement new ideas.
Support team and company goals, attend training, and keep relevant knowledge and skills current.