Injection Operator

Niagara Bottling•Opelika, AL

About The Position

The Injection Operator performs a variety of tasks requiring knowledge of injection processes and is responsible for day-to-day operations of PET and HDPE injection equipment and auxiliary equipment. The role includes preparing, setting up, starting, and running injection equipment; making minor adjustments when directed; completing production and quality logs; and helping maintain safe, clean, and efficient production operations. Niagara primarily uses Husky equipment, along with equipment from other manufacturers. The operator performs visual and mechanical quality checks, monitors raw materials, identifies defects, and reports quality issues promptly. The position may work across multiple production areas with minimal supervision, provide relief duties, troubleshoot minor equipment issues, and collaborate with maintenance as needed. Operators are expected to understand line flow and manufacturing processes, use relevant computer systems, communicate clearly, and maintain regular, predictable attendance. The position requires 12-hour day or night shifts on a rotating 2-2-3 schedule. The role requires a high school diploma or GED. An associate degree is preferred. Minimum qualifications include two years of experience in the field or a similar manufacturing environment, two years of experience in the position, and experience operating multiple manufacturing machines. Four years of field or similar manufacturing experience and four years of experience in the position are preferred, as is two years of experience managing people or projects. Experience may include a combination of work experience and education.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Two years of experience in the field or a similar manufacturing environment; experience may include a combination of work experience and education.
Two years of experience in the position; experience may include a combination of work experience and education.
Experience operating multiple manufacturing machines.
Ability to work 12-hour shifts, day or night, on a rotating 2-2-3 schedule.
Required certification or license: None.
Required foreign language: None.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree.
Four years of experience in the field or a similar manufacturing environment.
Four years of experience working in the position.
Two years of experience managing people or projects.
Preferred certification or license: None.
Preferred foreign language: None.

Responsibilities

Prepare, set up, start, and operate injection equipment and auxiliary equipment.
Perform minor equipment adjustments as directed; do not perform mechanical work without prior approval.
Accurately complete and update production and quality forms and logs, including injection preform and/or cap daily logs and destruction logs.
Recognize unsafe conditions and actions, follow plant safety rules and safe operating practices, and use required personal protective equipment.
Perform visual and mechanical quality checks to ensure production meets quality standards.
Maintain housekeeping in production areas, break rooms, and restrooms.
Distinguish between Vpet, Rpet, and HDPE resins, and identify parts that are safe for grinding and reintroduction to the resin system.
Maintain quality requirements, complete inspection sheets accurately, and immediately recognize and report quality defects.
Work in multiple production areas with minimal supervision and perform relief duties when required.
Troubleshoot minor production equipment issues and collaborate with the maintenance team as needed.
Use computer systems such as Shotscope, Electric80, and Ignition.
Understand line flow and manufacturing processes to maximize throughput.
Communicate issues clearly and concisely.
Maintain regular and predictable attendance.
Work 12-hour day or night shifts on a rotating 2-2-3 schedule.

Benefits

Paid time off for holidays, sick time, and vacation time.
Paid parental and caregiver leaves.
Medical benefits, including virtual care options.
Dental insurance.
Vision insurance.
401(k) with company match.
Health Savings Account with company match.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Expanded mental wellbeing benefits, including free counseling sessions for team members and household family members.
Family building benefits, including enhanced fertility benefits for IVF and fertility preservation, plus adoption, surrogacy, and Doula reimbursements.
Income protection, including life and AD&D, short- and long-term disability, critical illness, and accident plans.
Special discount programs, including pet plans, prepaid legal services, identity theft protection, car rental, and airport parking.
Tuition reimbursement, college savings plan, and scholarship opportunities.