Bead-Production Operator

Yokohama Tire; West Point (MS); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Yokohama Tire is seeking a motivated Bead-Production Operator in West Point, MS to operate and maintain equipment in the Bead Department. Responsibilities include operating bead forming machines, ensuring product quality, and adhering to safety standards.

The ideal candidate should be detail-oriented, flexible, and possess basic mechanical skills, along with a high school diploma or GED. Previous experience in tire manufacturing is preferred.

Qualifications

• Ability to evaluate and complete quality checks and document using a database collection system.
• Ability to make product changeovers on various pieces of equipment.
• Ability to make accurate measurements for effective production.

Responsibilities

• Operate bead forming machines to produce steel wire hoops.
• Maintain equipment and monitor machine settings.
• Conduct routine safety checks and participate in improvement initiatives.

Skills

High-speed equipment knowledge

Minor troubleshooting

Effective communication skills

Teamwork

Education

High School graduate or GED equivalent

Job description

Bead-Production Operator

Summary

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Bead Department Operator to join our tire manufacturing team. This role is responsible for operating and maintaining equipment across all three critical areas of the Bead Department: Bead Forming, Bead Covering, and Bead Filler.

The ideal candidate will be:

• Safety-conscious
• Mechanically inclined
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment

To be considered for this opportunity, candidates must be willing and able to learn and work across all three areas. Flexibility, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety and quality are essential for success in this role.

Responsibilities

Please review the information below for an overview of each section:

Bead Forming

• Operate bead forming machines to produce steel wire hoops used in tire construction.
• Load and thread steel wire onto forming equipment.
• Monitor machine settings for wire tension, diameter, and overlap alignment.
• Inspect formed beads for shape consistency and wire splices (BIC and weight).
• Perform minor adjustments and routine maintenance to prevent defects or downtime.
• Weld wires together and operate overhead cranes.
• Record production data and report abnormalities to maintenance or supervision.

Bead Covering

• Operate machines that wrap and bond fabric or rubber onto the formed steel bead.
• Align covering materials to ensure uniform wrapping and coverage.
• Monitor temperature and pressure to ensure proper bonding.
• Trim excess material and inspect for cosmetic or structural defects.
• Maintain proper material storage and labeling to prevent cross-contamination.
• Keep machines and work areas clean and organized.

Bead Filler

• Feed bead filler strips (rubber compounds) into extruders for tire building.
• Hand‑stitch filler material to the covered bead, ensuring correct placement and bonding.
• Set machine parameters based on bead size and specifications.
• Visually inspect finished products for defects or air pockets.
• Execute production plans to optimize manpower and machine productivity while minimizing scrap and foreign material.
• Monitor and confirm the condition of all safety devices using routine safety checks.
• Respond to downtime events by initiating countermeasures and following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and safety programs.
• Complete shift reports, ensure proper turnover, and maintain traceability documentation.
• Operate machines in compliance with safety standards, SOPs, and quality control plans.
• Report unsafe conditions, defective work causes, and machine abnormalities promptly.
• Maintain strong working relationships and proper equipment handling.
• Adhere to company policies, including:
  • 5S: A workplace organization method focusing on Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain.
  • EMS (Environmental Management System): A framework that helps manage environmental responsibilities efficiently and sustainably.

Knowledge and Skills

• Working knowledge of high-speed equipment
• Minor Troubleshooting
• Ability to evaluate and complete quality checks and document results using data base collection system.
• Ability to make product changeovers on various pieces of equipment.
• Ability to make accurate measurements for the effective production of raw materials.
• Ability to successfully operate overhead hoist lift.
• Effective communication skills and teamwork.

Education and Experience

• At leastHigh School graduate or GED equivalent
• Previous experience in tire manufacturing or a related field preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods and lift, push and/or pull heavy objects. (50LBS or more)