Operator - Braider

CorTech International; Mansfield (TX); On-site; USD 22,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

CorTech International is seeking a Braider Operator to run NEB, OMA, and TMW braiding equipment and to produce high-quality braided hose products. You will set up tooling, inspect quality, measure specifications, document results, and maintain a safe, organized work area.

The role involves following 5S and Lean practices, working in a manufacturing environment with noise, and overtime flexibility as required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability to read work orders and interpret manufacturing specifications.
• Basic computer skills.
• Strong attention to detail and product quality.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Pull and prepare tooling and materials according to specifications (springs, braid rings, tube guides, bobbins, cores).
• Inspect tooling and track materials through Braider Logs.
• Set up and operate braiding equipment per specifications.
• Load/unload carriers and bobbins and adjust machines as needed.
• Identify defects and mark preforms using tape colors.
• Measure OD and pitch on Hose Process Charts/SPC documentation.
• Run braided hose through wash tank and stage for inspection.
• Monitor equipment and product quality throughout production.
• Report issues to Lead and Maintenance as needed.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area per 5S/Lean practices.
• Follow safety, quality, environmental, and manufacturing procedures.
• Operate equipment efficiently to minimize waste.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Reading work orders

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Basic computer skills

Manual dexterity

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Pi tapes

Braiding equipment operation knowledge

Job description

Braider Operator

The Braider Operator is responsible for operating NEB, OMA, and/or TMW 24/36 braiding equipment to produce high-quality braided hose products. This role involves machine setup, tooling and material preparation, quality inspections, measurements, documentation, and maintaining a safe and organized manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Pull and prepare tooling and materials according to manufacturing specifications, including springs, braid rings, tube guides, bobbins, and core tubes.


• Inspect tooling and accurately track materials used through the WW3 system and Braider Logs.


• Set up and operate braiding equipment according to established specifications.


• Load and unload carriers and bobbins and make necessary machine adjustments.


• Identify and properly mark defects and new preforms using designated tape colors.


• Measure and record outside diameter (OD) and pitch on Hose Process Charts/SPC documentation.


• Run braided hose through the wash tank and stage finished product in the hose coiling area for inspection.


• Monitor equipment and product quality throughout the production process.


• Report production or equipment issues to the Direct Lead and work with Maintenance when needed.


• Maintain a clean and organized work area while following 5S and Lean Manufacturing practices.


• Follow all safety, quality, environmental, and manufacturing procedures.


• Operate equipment efficiently to minimize product and component waste.


• Participate in team-based continuous improvement initiatives.


• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or GED.


• Ability to read work orders and interpret manufacturing specifications.


• Basic computer skills.


• Strong attention to detail and product quality.


• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Preferred:

• Previous production or manufacturing experience.


• Basic knowledge and use of hand tools.


• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude.


• Strong troubleshooting and decision-making skills.


• Experience operating manufacturing or braiding equipment.

Technical Skills

• Monitor machine sounds and identify changes that may indicate equipment issues.


• Use and interpret measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, and Pi tapes.


• Maintain accurate production and quality records.


• Demonstrate the ability to operate or learn to operate NEB, TMW, and OMA braiding equipment.


• Maintain continuous visual, mental, and auditory attention to equipment and product quality.

Physical Requirements

• Continuous standing and walking.


• Frequent lifting and carrying of materials up to 30 lbs.


• Regular bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, pulling, squatting, kneeling, and lifting above shoulder level.


• Ability to perform tasks requiring a high degree of manual dexterity.


• Ability to remain alert to surroundings and equipment while maintaining close attention to product quality.

Work Environment

• Industrial manufacturing environment with high noise levels and operating machinery.


• Physical hazards associated with manufacturing equipment.


• Required use of steel-toe shoes, eye protection, and hearing protection.


• Extended periods of standing and regular physical movement.


• Flexible schedule and availability for overtime, including short-notice overtime, may be required.

Reporting Structure

The Braider Operator reports directly to the Value Stream Team Leader and works closely with Maintenance to troubleshoot and resolve equipment issues.