What are the responsibilities and job description for the Machine Operator II (Printing) position at Estex Manufacturing?
Machine Operator II
At Estex Manufacturing, innovation is in our DNA! What began over a century ago with horse collars and saddles has evolved into a powerhouse of precision manufacturing, trusted by leaders in the aerospace, utility, and airline industries. From reimagining a simple horse feed bag into the first lineman’s tool bucket to producing specialized airline equipment for major carriers, we’ve built a legacy of turning bold ideas into smart, functional solutions. Our growth has been fueled by long-standing relationships, a commitment to quality, and a team of driven professionals who take pride in every product we make. We collaborate closely with our customers, suppliers, and partners to stay ahead of industry trends and deliver real value—every single time. At Estex, we don’t just adapt to change—we help shape what’s next.
About the Role:
The Machine Operator III serves as the primary operator for the department's main printing equipment and is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production. This position requires advanced machine operation skills, technical troubleshooting abilities, and a strong commitment to productivity, quality, and safety. The Machine Operator III is expected to operate independently, perform complex setups and adjustments, minimize downtime, and assist in training and supporting other operators within the department.
Key Responsibilities:
- Set up, operate, monitor, and maintain the department's primary printing equipment.
- Review work orders, specifications, artwork, and production schedules to ensure accurate production setup and execution.
- Perform machine changeovers, calibrations, adjustments, and quality verifications to meet production requirements.
- Monitor production output and ensure products meet established quality standards and customer specifications.
- Troubleshoot equipment, material, and print quality issues and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime.
- Coordinate with supervisors and department personnel to prioritize work and meet production deadlines.
- Perform routine preventive maintenance and cleaning of equipment.
- Identify and escalate maintenance issues requiring additional technical support.
- Maintain accurate production records, quality checks, downtime reports, and material usage documentation.
- Assist with new product introductions, process improvements, and equipment optimization initiatives.
- Train and mentor Machine Operators I and II on machine operation, safety procedures, setup techniques, and quality standards.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
- Follow all company policies, quality requirements, safety procedures, and applicable work instructions.
- Participate in continuous improvement activities focused on increasing efficiency, reducing waste, and improving product quality.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or GED preferred.
- Minimum of 5 years of manufacturing machine operation experience preferred.
- Previous experience operating printing, screen printing, textile printing, digital printing, or similar production equipment strongly preferred.
- Regular exposure to noise, inks, solvents, adhesives, chemical substances, fumes, and moving mechanical equipment.
- Demonstrated experience performing advanced machine setups, troubleshooting, and process adjustments.
- Advanced knowledge of print production processes and machine operation.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to read and interpret production documents, job specifications, and quality standards.
- Ability to identify print defects and make necessary machine adjustments.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to prioritize tasks and perform effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Commitment to safety, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
- Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, twisting, and lifting.
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
- Frequent use of hands and arms for machine operation, material handling, and equipment adjustments.
- Ability to distinguish colors, print quality variations, and product defects.
- Ability to safely work around moving machinery and manufacturing equipment.
Estex is an Equal Opportunity Employer.