Backup Operator

Dalco-GFT Nonwovens; Union (SC); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A textile manufacturing company in South Carolina seeks a Machine Operator to set up and operate production lines. This role involves ensuring quality control, monitoring materials, and supporting maintenance tasks. Candidates should have prior manufacturing experience and strong teamwork skills. The position requires the ability to lift weights up to 50 lbs and operate in a fast-paced environment. This opportunity offers growth potential in a supportive team atmosphere.

Qualifications

• Prior manufacturing or machine operation experience preferred.
• Experience in nonwovens or textile processing a plus.

Responsibilities

• Set up, start, and safely operate the needle punch production line.
• Load and monitor fiber hoppers for material mix.
• Inspect materials and finished rolls for quality.
• Record production data accurately and on time.
• Perform routine cleaning and preventive maintenance checks.
• Assist Maintenance Technicians during repairs.
• Support production flow by giving breaks to other operators.

Skills

Ability to read and follow written instructions

Strong teamwork and communication skills

Basic math and measurement skills

Ability to use computers for data entry

Mechanically inclined with problem-solving ability

Job description

Job Title: Machine Operator

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Always Follow all Dalco Nonwovens policies and safety rules.
• Set up, start, and safely operate the needle punch production line and related equipment.
• Load and monitor fiber hoppers ensuring proper material mix and consistency.
• Inspect materials and finished rolls for quality, defects, and compliance with specifications.
• Record all necessary production data (weights, downtime, setpoints, etc.) accurately and on time.
• Make minor line adjustments (blend %, thickness, draft, width, etc.) as needed to maintain quality.
• Perform routine cleaning and preventive maintenance checks (belts, brushes, lubrication).
• Change and align needle boards following proper lockout/tagout procedures.
• Assist Maintenance Technicians during equipment repairs or part changes.
• Communicate issues promptly to Process Tech (mechanical, quality, safety).
• Doffing and operating the winder and wrapper.
• Preforming quality test when Lab Tech is unavailable.
• Support production flow by giving breaks to other line operators or assisting at winder/hopper positions.
• Participate in continuous improvement and 5S/housekeeping initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements

Experience

• Prior manufacturing or machine operation experience preferred.
• Experience in nonwovens or textile processing a plus.

Skills

• Ability to read and follow written instructions, specifications, and safety procedures.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Basic math and measurement skills (fractions, decimals, tape measure use).
• Ability to use computers for data entry and labeling.
• Mechanically inclined with problem-solving ability.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift up to 10 lbs. frequently, 50 lbs. occasionally.
• Ability to climb, crawl, bend, and move safely around machinery.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods in a production environment.

After Training

• Run the line independently within established parameters.
• Recognize and respond to process deviations or quality issues.
• Support training of new trainees when requested.
• Maintain work area organization and contribute to waste reduction efforts.