Pre-Expander/Molding Operator

PERMA R PRODUCTS INC•Johnson City, TN

About The Position

The Pre-Expander/Molding Operator operates pre-expansion and molding equipment to produce high-quality Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) beads and molded products. The role ensures material consistency, proper machine operation, and compliance with production specifications while maintaining a safe and efficient workspace. The operator controls pre-expander settings and EPS bead expansion, transfers beads to aging silos, and operates block or shape molding machines. Duties also include handling materials and finished products, inspecting product quality, troubleshooting process issues, maintaining production records, and keeping equipment and work areas clean. The position is based in an industrial production environment with exposure to steam, heat, and moving machinery. It involves extended periods of standing and lifting and maneuvering EPS materials.

Requirements

Basic understanding of steam systems, air pressure controls, and molding technology.
Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work in a hot, high-humidity environment with moderate physical labor.
Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot process issues.
Familiarity with workplace safety regulations and lockout/tagout procedures.

Nice To Haves

Experience in EPS manufacturing, molding, or plastics processing.

Responsibilities

Operate and monitor the pre-expander, controlling steam, air, and temperature settings for optimal EPS bead expansion.
Adjust density and expansion rates to meet production requirements.
Transfer pre-expanded beads to aging silos and ensure proper curing time before molding.
Operate EPS block or shape molding machines to form finished products.
Ensure mold cavities are clean, properly assembled, and aligned.
Adjust steam, vacuum, and pressure settings to achieve proper fusion and dimensional accuracy.
Load raw EPS beads into the pre-expander and ensure correct material flow.
Safely unload and handle molded EPS products for further processing or packaging.
Inspect products for defects, including poor fusion, shrinkage, and warping.
Conduct density checks and visual inspections to ensure quality standards.
Identify and correct molding defects by adjusting process parameters as needed.
Report machine malfunctions or inconsistencies to maintenance personnel.
Follow safety procedures for steam, pressurized systems, and hot surfaces; wear proper PPE and follow facility safety regulations.
Keep equipment and work areas clean and perform routine maintenance, such as lubricating parts and cleaning molds.
Maintain records of production runs, material usage, and machine settings.
Communicate process improvements or material inconsistencies to supervisors.