Machine Operator (Powder)

Sandvik•Westminster, SC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Sandvik Coromant in Westminster, SC is looking for a Machine Operator (Powder) to join their team. This role supports the production of high-quality Ready-to-Press (RTP) Cemented Carbide Powder. The Powder Operator will operate and monitor processing equipment while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, cleanliness, and production performance. This position plays a critical role in ensuring products meet customer specifications and quality requirements through the safe and efficient operation of raw material handling, weighing, milling, spray drying, and packaging processes.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
Current authorization to work in the United States.
Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to follow detailed procedures and work instructions.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Basic computer skills and experience working with automated control systems.

Nice To Haves

1–3 years of experience in a manufacturing, mechanical, chemical, or industrial process environment.
Experience working in a process-driven industry, particularly chemical processing, powder production, or similar operations.

Responsibilities

Receive, inventory, and properly store raw materials.
Select and prepare raw materials for production, including filling in Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs).
Accurately weigh recipes using a PLC-controlled automated weighing system, including manual weighing of ingredients as required.
Monitor weighing operations to ensure accuracy and prevent process deviations.
Return unused materials to inventory and clean weighing equipment between product grades.
Load, operate, sample, unload, and clean ball mills using the milling control system.
Produce high-quality powder slurry by homogenizing and milling raw materials using ethanol as the milling liquid.
Prepare spray drying equipment and associated systems for production, ensuring proper assembly, operation, and cleanliness.
Operate, control, and monitor spray drying equipment to produce finished RTP powder that meets quality specifications.
Continuously monitor process conditions and make adjustments as needed to ensure safe, efficient operation and consistent product quality.
Perform in-process quality inspections and sampling activities.
Analyze results and take corrective actions when necessary to maintain product specifications.
Collect samples for laboratory testing.
Accurately document production, quality, and process data in applicable systems.
Dismantle, clean, and reassemble equipment following production runs.
Utilize Clean-In-Place (CIP) systems and perform manual cleaning activities as required.
Maintain equipment, work areas, and production facilities to the highest cleanliness standards.
Support Sandvik dust and cobalt exposure control targets.
Perform preventive maintenance activities according to established schedules and procedures.
Conduct inspections and checks on equipment, including milling media and related components.
Start up and shut down production systems daily.
Prepare, package, and stage finished powder products for shipment based on customer orders.
Ensure orders are completed accurately and in a timely manner.
Monitor and control water processing equipment as required.
Monitor and control ethanol handling systems as required.
Maintain and update relevant computer systems, including production and warehouse management systems.
Complete additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by leadership.
Comply with all company safety, environmental, and operational procedures.
Support compliance with: ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems, ISO 14001 – Environmental Management Systems, ISO 45001 – Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems.
Promote a culture of safety, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Maintain a clean and organized work environment at all times.