Mill Equipment Operator – 2nd Shift

Lignetics•Arcade, NY

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Lignetics, Inc. is seeking a dependable, mechanically inclined Mill Equipment Operator for its manufacturing team in Arcade, New York. The 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 in a fast-paced industrial environment. Success requires attention to detail, a safety-first approach, mechanical aptitude, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork. The position is full-time, Monday through Friday, from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM (2nd shift). Pay is $21.00–$23.00 per hour based on experience, plus a $2.00-per-hour shift differential and a 2% annual bonus opportunity. A background check and drug screen are required before employment. The work takes place in an active manufacturing facility with industrial machinery, moving equipment, dust, noise, and potentially high temperatures or humidity. Physical work may include lifting, climbing ladders, accessing elevated platforms, and working in confined spaces when required. Employees must follow safety procedures, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and maintain a clean and safe work area. Lignetics is an equal opportunity employer and 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.

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 and test incoming raw materials, including monitoring moisture content throughout production.
Perform pellet mill roll changes using an overhead hoist and 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 and adjust pellet mill feed rates 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.