1st shift Monday- Friday
Pay based on experience $19.00-$22.00
The Machine Operator Floater is responsible for operating all machinery within the department to support production needs while maintaining quality, safety, and productivity standards. This role serves as a versatile team member who can work across multiple production areas, provide coverage during breaks, shift changes, absences, and periods of increased production demand.
The ideal candidate is safety-conscious, adaptable, and capable of learning and operating all department equipment. This position also supports inventory activities, production documentation, housekeeping efforts, and cross-functional operations as needed.
Essential Responsibilities
- Operate all department machinery with minimal supervision while maintaining production, quality, and safety standards.
- Provide coverage at Mixing, Extruding, Grinding, and other department workstations during breaks, shift changes, employee absences, and staffing shortages.
- Assist Grinder crews during equipment cleanouts and support operation of the Small Grinder when needed.
- Follow established production procedures and work instructions to ensure efficient operations.
- Monitor product quality throughout the manufacturing process and identify issues promptly.
- Work closely with supervisors and team members to ensure adherence to Standard Work practices and 6S principles.
- Safely operate forklifts and other powered industrial equipment to transport raw materials and finished goods.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
- Ensure tools and equipment are properly stored and readily accessible.
- Perform routine equipment care and promptly report maintenance concerns.
- Utilize computer systems to enter and review production data, work orders, and inventory information.
- Cross-train in additional department functions and provide support where needed.
- Participate in departmental, production, safety, and company meetings.
- Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Qualifications
Required
- High School Diploma or GED, or equivalent manufacturing experience.
- Minimum of 12 months of manufacturing or machine operation experience.
- Minimum of 12 months of forklift operating experience.
- Ability to read, write, and speak English.
- Ability to read and understand units of measurement.
- Basic math skills.
- Basic computer and data entry skills.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities and production demands.
- Commitment to quality, safety, and productivity standards.
- Ability to work overtime as needed to support business operations.
- Ability to learn and operate all Color Mill equipment within six months.
Preferred
- Experience using ERP or manufacturing software systems.
- Previous experience working in a multi-machine manufacturing environment.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
- Frequent bending, reaching, climbing, stooping, pushing, pulling, and repetitive movement.
- Ability to frequently lift and move up to 55 pounds and continuously handle materials weighing up to 20 pounds.
- Manual dexterity required to operate machinery, tools, and equipment.
- Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and coworkers regarding production, quality, and safety matters.
- Sufficient hearing ability to receive work instructions and respond to changes in the work environment.
- Strong attention to detail and time-management skills.
- Ability to wear required PPE, including respiratory protection when necessary.
- Ability to work at heights when required.
Work Environment
This position works in a manufacturing environment and may be exposed to:
- Loud noise levels
- Dust and pigment materials
- Temperature fluctuations and extreme heat
- High-pressure air, steam, or gas systems
- Hazardous fumes or chemicals
- Moving machinery and industrial equipment
- Dirty or confined work areas
Required personal protective equipment (PPE) may include:
- Safety glasses
- Steel-toe or composite-toe footwear
- Hearing protection
- Respiratory protection
- Additional PPE as required by the work area