Film Operator

The Plastics Extrusion Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of plastic extrusion equipment used to manufacture polyethylene film products. This position monitors production processes, performs machine adjustments, conducts quality inspections, and ensures production goals are met while maintaining compliance with safety and quality standards. The Extrusion Operator works closely with production, maintenance, and quality personnel to maximize equipment performance, minimize waste, and produce high-quality products that meet customer specifications.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Film Machine Operation

• Operate plastic extrusion lines and related equipment in accordance with established operating procedures.
• Start up, monitor, adjust, and shut down extrusion equipment safely and efficiently.
• Monitor machine settings, temperatures, pressures, and production rates to ensure optimal performance.
• Make routine process adjustments to maintain product quality and production efficiency.

Product Quality

• Perform and document quality checks on film thickness, width, appearance, and other customer specifications.
• Identify and correct quality issues during production.
• Segregate and report non-conforming material according to company procedures.
• Maintain accurate production and quality records.

Production Efficiency

• Meet or exceed established production standards while minimizing downtime and scrap.
• Monitor raw material usage and ensure proper material handling procedures are followed.
• Assist with changeovers and product transitions to maximize equipment uptime.
• Communicate production concerns and opportunities for improvement to supervisors.

Safety and Housekeeping

• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and OSHA requirements.
• Utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with 5S and housekeeping standards.
• Report safety concerns, equipment issues, and incidents immediately.

Equipment Care

• Perform routine machine inspections and basic preventive maintenance tasks.
• Assist maintenance personnel with troubleshooting and repairs when necessary.
• Report equipment malfunctions promptly to minimize production interruptions.

Teamwork and Communication

• Communicate effectively with supervisors, quality personnel, maintenance technicians, and fellow operators.
• Participate in shift turnover meetings and provide accurate production updates.
• Support team objectives and assist in training new employees when requested.

Documentation

• Complete production reports, quality records, downtime logs, and material usage documentation accurately and timely.
• Utilize production systems and paperwork to track manufacturing performance and inventory movement.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous manufacturing experience preferred; plastics extrusion experience highly desirable.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot production equipment.
• Ability to read and understand production specifications and work instructions.
• Basic math skills including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and measurement conversions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a production team.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing and walking throughout the shift.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Frequent bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling.
• Ability to work around moving machinery and production equipment.
• Ability to distinguish colors and identify product defects.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, heat, and moving equipment.
• Required use of personal protective equipment.
• Fast-paced production environment with established production goals and deadlines.
• May require overtime, weekend work, and shift work as business needs dictate.