Line Operator

Petoskey Plastics • Hartford City, IN

5d • Onsite

About The Position

A Line Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of production lines in their designated department. The role requires collaboration with other operators, a strong focus on quality, and accurate documentation of daily production, quality, scrap and machine downtime. Key duties include strong problem-solving skills such as identifying and solving mechanical issues to minimize downtime and ensure smooth production.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• 6 months’ plastics manufacturing experience, preferred
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Proven record of reliable attendance and dependability
• Problem solving and troubleshooting abilities
• Mechanical aptitude with basic electrical and equipment knowledge
• Ability to read and interpret production schedules, work orders, blueprints, and work procedures in English
• Understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, resins, and additives
• Ability to learn multiple production lines and processes
• Computer proficiency for data entry and production reporting
• Basic mathematical skills
• Regular and Reliable Attendance
• Reading
• Writing
• Ability to follow verbal and written directions accurately and consistently
• Visual Acuity
• Ascend/Descend Stairways and Platforms with Heights of up to 50+ feet
• Able to work in non-climate-controlled environment
• Standing for 12 hours
• Walking
• Bending
• Twisting
• Reaching
• Pushing
• Pulling
• Lifting/Carrying up to 50 pounds (higher weights require a two-person lift or mechanical assist as applicable)
• Concentration

Responsibilities

• Work safely while adhering to established safety procedures and cardinal safety rules
• Maintain excellent housekeeping standards through 6S practices and visual management expectations
• Adhere to Lock Out Tag Out and machine guarding policies and procedures
• Be present during scheduled work hours and attend all required meetings
• Comply with Quality Management Systems by following established procedures, performing quality checks and ensuring adherence to quality standards
• Conduct first piece approvals in accordance with QMS procedures
• Follow established standard operating procedures to set up, monitor, and adjust production line parameters to achieve product quality and customer requirements
• Operate assigned production lines safely and efficiently while meeting productivity, quality, and scrap targets
• Review and interpret production schedules, work orders, blueprints, specifications, and standard operating procedures
• Monitor and document production output, downtime, scrap, resin usage, and quality data
• Prepare, stage, and organize materials, equipment, and tooling required for production
• Follow established procedures for Plascontrol, gravimetric systems, and other process control equipment
• Accurately input data related to resin, production, and scrap into computer system
• Expedite job changes, assist with modifications on other lines, and adjust blends on extruders to facilitate efficient job transitions
• Perform operator-level preventative maintenance and routine equipment inspections
• Maintain printers, vacuum systems, process blades, and associated production equipment
• Keep accurate and organized records and documentation related to production processes, including consistent updates to hour-by-hour boards
• Handle print plates, repair knots in rolls, address print ink drips, and manage blowholes
• Identify, analyze, and resolve process and equipment issues to minimize downtime
• Troubleshoot quality concerns, material flow issues, vacuum system problems, print defects, edge guide issues, threading concerns, and other production-related problems
• Escalate unresolved issues appropriately while assisting with corrective actions
• Provide break relief for other associates and assist other lines, as needed
• Communicate effectively with operators, maintenance personnel, supervisors, and quality associates during the shift and at shift change
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts and support departmental goals
• Coordinate with resin handlers, material handlers, maintenance, and supervision to support production requirements
• Progress through established operator qualification standards and maintain required certifications
• Develop proficiency operating multiple production lines and processes within the department
• Attend all required operator training classes and qualification sessions
• Assist in training Operator Trainees and newly qualified operators when authorized
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management

Benefits

• Medical, Prescription, Dental, and Vision benefits - valued at $4/hr over your base pay!
• PTO - start accruing just two weeks after your start date
• Earn a $500 bonus for maintaining a full-time status for the first 90 days of employment with good attendance.
• Petoskey Plastics pays 3% of your annual earnings into your 401k regardless of your contribution!
• Profit Sharing
• Birthday Pay
• Call-in Bonus
• Safety Shoe and Safety Glasses Reimbursement
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Wellness Reimbursement (up to $400 annually)
• Life Insurance
• Short- and Long-Term Disability

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED