Production Technician II (3 Days/Wk)

About Tanbark

Tanbark is a Maine-based manufacturer dedicated to eco-friendly, molded fiber packaging that replaces plastic. Our mission is to provide access to planet-friendly, purpose-driven products by pushing the limits of molded fiber design.

Position Summary

The Production Technician II is a key member of our team, ensuring production procedures are carried out safely and efficiently, maximizing equipment uptime and product quality. They prepare raw materials, operate, maintain, and clean production machinery, and diagnose equipment issues alongside teammates. They work closely with Maintenance Technicians to ensure that equipment issues outside their scope are quickly resolved.

The Production Technician II also trains fellow production teammates and supports company-wide improvement initiatives, recognizing and communicating ideas and challenges. This role requires adaptability, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to safe and efficient operations.

Work Schedule

• Day Shift: 6:30am-7:30pm, 3 days per week
• Two shift options available: Monday/Tuesday/Friday OR Wednesday/Thursday/Saturday

Starting Pay Rate

• $25/hour

Duties & Responsibilities

• Operate production machinery according to manufacturer guidelines and company procedures.
• Set up machines per specifications and prepare them for production runs.
• Adjust machinery controls to optimize product yield and quality.
• Batch and process raw materials in the pulper and stock prep system.
• Operate the die-cutting machine to trim and pack products for shipment.
• Handle end-of-line procedures, including product quality checks, data logging, and packing dry products.
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical issues to maintain productivity and quality standards, escalating complex issues to maintenance as needed.
• Perform minor preventive maintenance as required and ensure optimal machine operation.
• Maintain and clean the production system, stock prep, tanks, and other equipment.
• Stay up to date with machine functions to assist in troubleshooting and collaborate with the Maintenance Technician.
• Maintain a clean, orderly work area.
• Uphold and support the company’s mission, vision, and values in all aspects of work.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures.
• Identify and report concerns to operations management or Human Resources.
• Maintain a collaborative, positive, and professional attitude, building strong relationships with colleagues.
• Safely operate forklifts or pallet jacks to stack pallets, transport materials, and load/unload trucks.
• Operate chemical pumps to dose the correct amounts of chemicals for production runs.
• Assist with equipment changeovers and ensure effective communication of production information.
• Assist with tooling changeovers, cleaning, and preparation for storage.
• Train fellow employees on production procedures and safe equipment use as requested by management.
• Support effective hand-off between shifts.
• Perform other work-related duties as assigned.

Core Values & Competencies

At Tanbark, we don’t just create sustainable products—we create a culture of innovation and responsibility. We support our mission through our A.C.T.S.—our core values that guide how we approach work, solve problems, and contribute to team and company goals.

• Adaptability – Embraces change, solves problems proactively, and continuously improves.
• Accountability – Takes ownership of responsibilities, follows through on commitments, and keeps stakeholders informed.
• Curiosity – Seeks learning opportunities, challenges existing processes, and explores innovative solutions.
• Collaboration – Works effectively with diverse teams, fosters inclusive decision-making, and contributes to shared goals.
• Trustworthiness – Builds strong relationships through honesty, dependability, and open communication.
• Transparency – Communicates decisions clearly, shares relevant information, and ensures alignment with company objectives.
• Safety – Prioritizes workplace safety, follows protocols, and actively contributes to a culture of well-being.
• Sustainability – Supports long-term growth through continuous learning and professional development.

Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 2-5 years of factory or mechanical experience.
• Maintenance background is helpful, but not required.
• Strong machine operation experience in a manufacturing setting, including HMIs.
• Ability to read drawings, perform basic math, and use hand-held measuring tools.
• Experience with mechanical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and instrumentation.
• High quality standards, attention to detail and proven ability to recognize defects.
• Troubleshooting skills with the ability to operate and maintain mechanical systems.
• Ability to operate pallet jack and obtain Forklift certification.
• Effective English communication skills, verbal and written, including grammar and composition.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

This role requires the ability to safely perform physically demanding tasks, including standing, walking, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, and manual handling of materials up to 50 lbs. Must have sufficient hand strength and dexterity for frequent gripping, pulling, and use of hand and power tools.

The production environment includes exposure to moving mechanical parts, pulp dust, chemicals, and moderate noise. Proper PPE must be worn at all times.

Advancement Opportunities

Joining Tanbark means getting in at the ground floor of a company that’s building for the future. We offer a chance to grow your skills, take on greater responsibility, and step into new roles within production as we expand. We aim to hire from within whenever possible - strong performers are the first considered for advancement opportunities.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 39 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• On-the-job training
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person

Salary : $25