Injection Grinder Operator

Southeastern Container; Candler (NC); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Southeastern Container is seeking a Grinder Operator to safely operate grinding equipment used for plastic scrap, regrind, and recyclables in a manufacturing setting. You will monitor performance, ensure material flow, and perform quality checks to meet specifications for reuse.

This role also involves handling finished preform-related equipment and maintaining a clean, safe work area while following all safety protocols.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience in manufacturing or recycling environments is desirable.
• Basic computer skills and data entry are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate grinders, conveyors and related equipment following procedures.
• Process scrap, regrind and recyclable material into usable material.
• Inspect materials before/after grinding for quality and cleanliness.
• Monitor grinder performance and adjust as needed; help with maintenance when required.
• Ensure continuous material flow to prevent production interruptions.
• Document production, material usage and downtime accurately.
• Follow lockout/tagout, safety rules and PPE requirements.

Skills

Manufacturing

Material handling

Equipment operation

Quality checks

Safety adherence

Attention to detail

Ability to follow instructions

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Description Job Title

Grinder Operator

Reports To

Operations Manager or Team Leader

Position Summary

The Grinder Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of grinding equipment used to process plastic scrap, regrind, and recyclable materials generated during manufacturing operations. This position monitors equipment performance, maintains material flow, performs quality checks, and ensures that processed material meets established specifications for reuse or recycling. This position is also responsible for the operation of equipment related to handling of finished preform production.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following duties are representative of the position; additional duties may be assigned as necessary:

• Operate grinders, conveyors, material handling systems, and related equipment in accordance with established procedures.
• Process production scrap, off-specification product, and recyclable material into reusable regrind material.
• Inspect material before and after grinding to ensure compliance with quality specifications and regrind is clean and free of contamination.
• Monitor grinder performance and make routine operational adjustments as necessary; remove and clean grinder magnets.
• Load, tag, store and process regrind as necessary for shipment.
• Maintain continuous material flow to prevent production interruptions.
• Perform routine inspections of grinding equipment and report maintenance concerns promptly.
• Identify and troubleshoot minor equipment issues and escape more complex problems to maintenance personnel.
• Accurately document production, material usage, downtime, and quality data.
• Transport materials safely using approved material handling equipment.
• Follow all lockout/tagout, machine guarding, and safety requirements.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including dust collection system.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Manufacturing, recycling, material processing, or machine operator experience preferred.
• Experience operating industrial equipment in a production environment preferred.
• Forklift certification or the ability to become certified preferred.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Strong attention to quality and detail.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision.
• Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety.
• Basic computer skills, data entry, Word, Excel preferred.

Physical Requirements

The employee must regularly:

• Stand and walk for extended periods during the shift.
• Lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds; heavier loads require team lifting or mechanical assistance.
• Bend, stoop, squat, twist, kneel, and reach frequently.
• Climb stairs and access elevated work areas when required.
• Work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures, noise levels, and dust conditions.
• Wear required PPE, including hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, and safety footwear.