Material Process Operator

Tenneco; Blacksburg (VA); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Tenneco in Blacksburg, VA is seeking a Bonding Line Operator to run bonding line equipment and support the production of high-quality friction material components. You will follow work instructions, monitor process parameters, perform inspections, and document production activities to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency.

Responsibilities include start-up/shutdown procedures, load handling, routine maintenance support, and collaboration with team members to meet production targets while

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous manufacturing or production experience preferred.
• Experience operating industrial equipment is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Operate bonding line equipment following work instructions and SOPs.
• Load materials, components, and tooling for bonding.
• Monitor temperatures, pressures, and cycle times for quality and stability.
• Perform routine product inspections throughout manufacturing.
• Identify and segregate non-conforming materials and products.
• Conduct start-up, changeover, and shutdown procedures.
• Maintain production records, quality documentation, and downtime reports.
• Assist maintenance with equipment issues and basic troubleshooting.
• Verify adhesion, bonding quality, and product specifications.
• Maintain required production rates while ensuring quality.
• Follow safety regulations including lockout/tagout and PPE.
• Keep work area clean and organized using 5S.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities and Kaizen events.

Skills

Attention to detail

Reading production schedules

Mechanical aptitude

Teamwork

Problem solving

Basic computer skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

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The Bonding Line Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring bonding line equipment used in the manufacturing process to produce high-quality friction material components. This position ensures adherence to safety, quality, productivity, and continuous improvement standards while supporting the efficient operation of the production line.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate bonding line equipment in accordance with established work instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Load materials, components, and tooling required for the bonding process.
• Monitor machine settings, temperatures, pressures, and cycle times to ensure product quality and process stability.
• Perform routine inspections of products throughout the manufacturing process.
• Identify, document, and segregate non-conforming materials and products.
• Conduct start-up, changeover, and shutdown procedures for bonding line equipment.
• Maintain production records, quality documentation, and downtime reports.
• Perform basic troubleshooting and assist maintenance personnel with equipment issues when necessary.
• Verify proper adhesion, bonding quality, and product specifications through visual and dimensional inspections.
• Maintain required production rates while meeting quality standards.
• Follow all safety regulations, including lockout/tagout procedures and PPE requirements.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the work area utilizing 5S principles.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, Kaizen events, and waste reduction activities.
• Communicate production issues, quality concerns, and equipment problems to supervisors and team members.
• Train and assist new employees when assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Education

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

Experience

• Previous manufacturing, assembly, machine operation, or production experience preferred.
• Experience operating industrial equipment in a manufacturing environment is beneficial.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and quality standards.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and quality requirements.
• Ability to read production schedules, work instructions, and inspection criteria.
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced production setting.
• Basic computer and documentation skills.
• Ability to work overtime and various shifts as required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during the shift.
• Frequently lift, push, pull, and carry materials up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, twisting, and repetitive hand motions.
• Ability to work near moving machinery and industrial equipment.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed footwear.
• Exposure to heat, noise, vibration, dust, and industrial machinery.
• Requires strict adherence to safety, quality, and environmental standards.
• Regular interaction with production, maintenance, quality, and supervision personnel.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Safety compliance and incident prevention.
• Production efficiency and throughput.
• Scrap and rework reduction.
• Equipment uptime and reliability.
• Attendance and dependability.
• Compliance with standard operating procedures.
• Participation in continuous improvement initiatives.

Core Competencies

• Safety Focus
• Quality Orientation
• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Accountability
• Reliability
• Problem Solving
• Attention to Detail

Equal Opportunity Statement

Tenneco is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants and employees will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.