Machine Operator

Padnos•Grandville, MI

12d•Onsite

About The Position

PADNOS is a full-service recycling company handling paper, plastic, metals and electronic recycling. We tailor recycling programs for consumer and industrial clients throughout the United States. PADNOS was founded over a century ago and continues to transform the recycling industry. The company has thrived as a family business through four generations and has grown to be a market leader and best in class innovator. Position Summary Our Machine Operators play a critical role in supporting PADNOS recycling operations through the safe and efficient operation of advanced material processing and sorting equipment. This position is responsible for operating and monitoring automated systems including conveyors, shredders, balers, and XRT sorting technology to ensure consistent production flow, high-quality material recovery, and minimal contamination. Operators are expected to perform routine equipment inspections, basic troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and cleaning of sensors, belts, and air systems to maximize uptime and operational efficiency.

Requirements

Hilo experience required
Accuracy in operation and attention to detail
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment
Strong computer skills with the ability to monitor machine systems

Nice To Haves

Six months’ operating small equipment experience preferred (loader, forklift, scissor lift)
Equipment operation and preventative maintenance knowledge (conveyors, pulleys, etc)

Responsibilities

Operate and monitor automated metal sorting equipment, conveyors, shredders, balers, and XRT sorting systems
Monitor the XRT machine for jams, sensor faults, contamination, or sorting errors
Track production output, downtime, material grades, and inventory in company systems
Support startup, shutdown, and changeover procedures for sorting equipment
Adjust machine settings and material flow rates to improve recovery and reduce contamination
Feed material consistently into sorting lines to maintain production flow
Perform routine equipment inspections and preventive maintenance before, during, and after shifts
Clean sensors, belts, air systems, and machine areas to maintain sorting accuracy and uptime
Follow lockout/tagout procedures and plant safety requirements