Line Operator

Petoskey-Plastics; Petoskey (MI); On-site; USD 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

PTO after 2 weeks

401k with company match

Bonus for good attendance

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Petoskey Plastics seeks a dedicated Line Operator to safely run production lines, maintain quality, and document daily output, scrap, and downtime. You will collaborate with teammates, follow standard procedures, and support continuous improvement in a fast-paced plastics environment.

Candidates should have a High School Diploma or GED and prefer 6 months of plastics manufacturing experience, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to read schedules and blueprints in English.

Qualifications

• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Proven record of reliable attendance and dependability.
• Problem solving and troubleshooting abilities.
• Mechanical aptitude with basic electrical knowledge.
• Ability to read and interpret production schedules, work orders, blueprints, and procedures in English.
• Computer proficiency for data entry and production reporting.
• Basic mathematical skills.
• Line Operator experience in plastics manufacturing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate assigned production lines safely and efficiently while meeting productivity, quality, and scrap targets.
• Review and interpret production schedules, work orders, blueprints, specifications, and SOPs.
• Monitor and document production output, downtime, scrap, resin usage, and quality data.
• Prepare, stage, and organize materials, equipment, and tooling for production.
• Input data related to resin, production, and scrap into the computer system.
• Troubleshoot process and equipment issues to minimize downtime and downtime.
• Participate in training and qualification sessions; assist in training new operators.
• Escalate unresolved issues and support corrective actions.
• Maintain housekeeping and adhere to safety rules (6S, LOTO, machine guarding).

Skills

Safety

Quality

Attendance

Communication

Problem solving

Mechanical aptitude

Reading schedules

Data entry

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Plascontrol

Gravimetric systems

Job description

Petoskey Plastics aspires to stand out as an industry leader in sustainability, using advanced recycling technology to manufacture high-quality films, bags, and resins from post-consumer materials. Our commitment to eco-friendly innovation sets us apart, as we strive to earn the appreciation and respect of our customers, associates, and communities. If you are seeking a family-oriented company that values career growth and provides robust paid training, explore the comprehensive benefits listed below to see how Petoskey Plastics can support your professional journey.We’re headquartered in Petoskey where our Lake Michigan shores are clasped by rhythmic waves of seafoam and cobalt. We’re honored to have roots in Texas, Tennessee, and Indiana as our production has expanded over the years. Our custom-engineered solutions tackle a variety of industries, including automotive, industrial, institutional, retail, construction, home improvement, medical, and more. Always moving forward! > IN THE NEWSA few of our over 20 competitive benefits:Medical, Prescription, Dental, and Vision benefits - valued at $4/hr over your base pay!PTO - start accruing just two weeks after your start dateEarn a $500 bonus for maintaining a full-time status for the first 90 days of employment with good attendance.Petoskey Plastics pays 3% of your annual earnings into your 401k regardless of your contribution!Profit SharingBirthday PayCall-in BonusSafety Shoe and Safety Glasses ReimbursementTuition ReimbursementWellness Reimbursement (up to $400 annually)Life InsuranceShort- and Long-Term DisabilityA Line Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of production lines in their designated department. The role requires collaboration with other operators, a strong focus on quality, and accurate documentation of daily production, quality, scrap and machine downtime. Key duties include strong problem-solving skills such as identifying and solving mechanical issues to minimize downtime and ensure smooth production.Line Operator ResponsibilitiesSafety:Work safely while adhering to established safety procedures and cardinal safety rulesMaintain excellent housekeeping standards through 6S practices and visual management expectationsAdhere to Lock Out Tag Out and machine guarding policies and proceduresBe present during scheduled work hours and attend all required meetingsQuality:Comply with Quality Management Systems by following established procedures, performing quality checks and ensuring adherence to quality standardsConduct first piece approvals in accordance with QMS proceduresFollow established standard operating procedures to set up, monitor, and adjust production line parameters to achieve product quality and customer requirementsProduction Operations:Operate assigned production lines safely and efficiently while meeting productivity, quality, and scrap targetsReview and interpret production schedules, work orders, blueprints, specifications, and standard operating proceduresMonitor and document production output, downtime, scrap, resin usage, and quality dataPrepare, stage, and organize materials, equipment, and tooling required for productionFollow established procedures for Plascontrol, gravimetric systems, and other process control equipmentAccurately input data related to resin, production, and scrap into computer systemExpedite job changes, assist with modifications on other lines, and adjust blends on extruders to facilitate efficient job transitionsPerform operator-level preventative maintenance and routine equipment inspectionsMaintain printers, vacuum systems, process blades, and associated production equipmentKeep accurate and organized records and documentation related to production processes, including consistent updates to hour-by-hour boardsHandle print plates, repair knots in rolls, address print ink drips, and manage blowholesIdentify, analyze, and resolve process and equipment issues to minimize downtimeTroubleshoot quality concerns, material flow issues, vacuum system problems, print defects, edge guide issues, threading concerns, and other production-related problemsEscalate unresolved issues appropriately while assisting with corrective actionsTraining, Teamwork, and Communication:Provide break relief for other associates and assist other lines, as neededCommunicate effectively with operators, maintenance personnel, supervisors, and quality associates during the shift and at shift changeParticipate in continuous improvement efforts and support departmental goalsCoordinate with resin handlers, material handlers, maintenance, and supervision to support production requirementsProgress through established operator qualification standards and maintain required certificationsDevelop proficiency operating multiple production lines and processes within the departmentAttend all required operator training classes and qualification sessionsAssist in training Operator Trainees and newly qualified operators when authorizedPerform additional duties as assigned by managementLine Operator EducationHigh School Diploma or GEDLine Operator Experience6 months’ plastics manufacturing experience, preferredLine Operator Knowledge, Skills, AbilitiesCommitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvementGood communication and teamwork skillsProven record of reliable attendance and dependabilityProblem solving and troubleshooting abilitiesMechanical aptitude with basic electrical and equipment knowledgeAbility to read and interpret production schedules, work orders, blueprints, and work procedures in EnglishUnderstanding of manufacturing processes, materials, resins, and additivesAbility to learn multiple production lines and processesComputer proficiency for data entry and production reportingBasic mathematical skillsLine Operator Essential FunctionsRegular and Reliable AttendanceReadingWritingAbility to follow verbal and written directions accurately and consistentlyVisual AcuityAscend/Descend Stairways and Platforms with Heights of up to 50+ feetAble to work in non-climate-controlled environmentStanding for 12 hoursWalkingBendingTwistingReachingPushingPullingLifting/Carrying up to 50 pounds (higher weights require a two-person lift or mechanical assist as applicable)Concentration