Mill Equipment Operator – 2nd Shift
About The Position
Lignetics, Inc. is seeking a dependable, mechanically inclined Mill Equipment Operator for its manufacturing team in Arcade, New York. This role operates, monitors, and maintains pellet mill equipment to support safe, efficient production of high-quality wood pellets. The operator helps maintain production flow and product quality, troubleshoots equipment issues, and supports daily manufacturing operations. The position is scheduled Monday through Friday from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM on second shift. Pay is $21.00–$23.00 per hour based on experience, with an additional $2.00-per-hour shift differential and a 2% annual bonus opportunity. A background check and drug screen are required before employment. The role involves operating three pellet mills, testing raw materials and finished pellets, making equipment and feed-rate adjustments, and coordinating with the Dryer Operator and other production staff. The operator records measurements and shift information, reports incidents and equipment concerns, and participates in maintenance and cleaning activities. The work takes place in an active manufacturing facility with industrial machinery, moving equipment, dust, noise, and potentially high temperatures and humidity. Work may involve physically demanding tasks, including lifting, climbing, and working in confined spaces. Employees must follow safety procedures, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, and maintain a clean work area. Lignetics manufactures wood pellets, animal bedding, and other renewable wood-based products. The company describes its workplace as safe, efficient, and team-oriented, and offers opportunities for skill development, professional growth, and advancement. Lignetics is an Equal Opportunity Employer and states that it provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- Previous manufacturing, production, or industrial equipment operating experience preferred.
- Working knowledge of manufacturing processes and production equipment.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot equipment and maintenance issues.
- Technical and analytical skills with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations and accurately record production measurements.
- Ability to successfully complete company forklift certification.
- Ability to safely lift up to 80 pounds to approximately waist height.
- Ability to stand for extended periods, up to 12 hours per shift.
- Ability to climb ladders and access elevated catwalks up to 30 feet high.
- Ability to work safely in confined spaces and areas with elevated temperatures and humidity.
- Ability to monitor multiple pieces of equipment and respond quickly to operational concerns.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively with other production team members.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, safety procedures, and equipment operating guidelines.
- Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English to understand safety instructions, production documentation, and operational requirements.
- Dependable attendance, professionalism, teamwork, and a safety-first approach.
- Completion of a pre-employment background check and drug screen.
Nice To Haves
- Previous manufacturing, production, or industrial equipment operating experience.
- High school diploma or GED.
Responsibilities
- Operate, monitor, and adjust three pellet mills to maintain efficient production and consistent product quality.
- Perform quality-control testing on finished pellets to ensure they meet established standards.
- Test incoming raw materials and monitor moisture content during production.
- Perform pellet mill roll changes using an overhead hoist; adjust or replace rolls and dies as needed.
- Conduct routine equipment and process inspections to identify mechanical or operational issues.
- Work with the Dryer Operator to maintain pellet moisture levels between 4% and 4.5%.
- Measure and record pellet durability, fines volume, pellet diameter, and soak test results to maintain Pellet Fuels Institute quality standards.
- Monitor equipment for malfunctions, hot bearings, spot fires, and other safety or operational concerns.
- Monitor pellet mill feed rates and adjust them to support production efficiency.
- Perform ash testing on raw material mixes and finished pellets, and communicate results to the Dryer Operator.
- Visually monitor silo inventory levels and report findings to the Dryer Operator.
- Assist Packaging, Loader, and Dryer Operators as needed to maintain production flow.
- Collect and review shift operator reports for completeness and accuracy, and prepare daily shift summary reports.
- Report and document incidents, accidents, equipment concerns, and maintenance requests.
- Maintain a clean and organized work environment, including removing sawdust and other debris from the mill room.
- Participate in scheduled maintenance, equipment repairs, cleaning, and production downtime activities.
- Demonstrate dependable attendance, professionalism, teamwork, and a safety-first approach.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- 2% annual bonus opportunity.
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match up to 5%, fully vested after 90 days.
- Paid time off and paid holidays.
- Company wood pellet heating program.
- $250 annual personal protective equipment (PPE) allowance.
- Opportunities for professional development and advancement.
- Stable, year-round employment.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
