Production Operator I ~ 1st Shift

TekniPlex•Holland, OH

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Production Operator I ~ 1st Shift is responsible for the safe, efficient, and independent operation of extrusion, slitting, and lamination equipment to manufacture products that consistently meet customer quality specifications and production requirements. This role demonstrates advanced technical knowledge of manufacturing processes, equipment setup, operation, troubleshooting, and process optimization. The Production Operator I is responsible for machine setup, operation, changeovers, monitoring process parameters, performing quality inspections, and packaging finished products. This position also performs palletizing, unloading, sleeving, and other material handling activities while ensuring compliance with established safety, quality, and productivity standards. As an experienced operator, this position is expected to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve routine process and equipment issues with minimal supervision, make process adjustments to optimize performance, and communicate effectively with maintenance, quality, and production leadership when escalation is required. The Production Operator I provides guidance and support to less experienced operators, promotes adherence to standard operating procedures, and contributes to the development of a skilled and engaged workforce. This role champions a culture of safety by following all company policies and safe work practices, identifying potential hazards, and actively participating in safety initiatives. The Production Operator I is also expected to support continuous improvement efforts by identifying opportunities to reduce waste, improve quality, increase equipment efficiency, lower operating costs, and enhance overall manufacturing performance. Accurate documentation of production, quality, and equipment data is required to support operational excellence and regulatory compliance.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Ability to learn the safe operation of manufacturing equipment and follow established work instructions.
Ability to read and interpret work orders, production specifications, operating procedures, and quality documentation.
Basic mathematical skills, including measurements, fractions, decimals, and simple calculations.
Ability to follow verbal and written instructions and work effectively under the direction of supervisors and experienced operators.
Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety by consistently following all safety procedures and wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Strong work ethic with dependable attendance and a willingness to learn new skills.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team while maintaining a positive attitude.
Basic computer skills for entering production data and completing required documentation, as applicable.
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
Ability to write routine reports and legibly complete time cards and work orders.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures and read blueprints and technical drawings, such as machine, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical.
Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small groups situations to other employees of the organization.
Ability to effective present information and respond to questions form groups of managers, clients, customers, and the general public.
Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent.
Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra, geometry, fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of variable in situations where only limited standardization exists.
Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form.
Regularly required to stand, walk, and talk or hear.
Frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms.
Occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and taste or smell.
Must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Nice To Haves

Previous manufacturing experience is preferred but not required.
Experience in film extrusion, slitting, lamination, plastics manufacturing, or a related industrial environment is a plus.

Responsibilities

Safely operates either extrusion, slitting, or lamination process equipment under the after training and qualification of experienced operators.
Learns equipment operation, production processes, and standard operating procedures while developing the skills necessary to operate equipment independently.
Assists with machine setup, material loading, product changeovers, and equipment startups following established procedures.
Monitors equipment during production and promptly reports equipment malfunctions, quality concerns, or safety issues to the appropriate personnel.
Performs routine quality inspections and documents required production and quality information accurately.
Positions sheet rolls on unwind stands, threads materials through equipment, and assists with machine setup as instructed.
Packages, bags, boxes, sleeves, labels, and palletizes finished products according to customer and company requirements.
Performs routine material handling activities, including staging raw materials and moving finished goods using approved methods and equipment.
Maintains accurate production records, quality documentation, and other required manufacturing paperwork.
Assists with equipment cleaning, routine housekeeping, and basic preventative maintenance activities.
Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work area by following 5S and plant housekeeping standards.
Follows all company safety policies, quality standards, operating procedures, and environmental requirements.
Participates in required training programs to develop the knowledge and skills necessary for advancement.
Works effectively with team members to meet production schedules, quality expectations, and operational goals.
Performs other duties as assigned to support production and operational objectives.