Operator, Lead - Blend Department

Kymera International; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Kymera International seeks a Lead Operator for the Blend Department to oversee daily copper powder blending operations. You will lead a team, ensure safety, quality, and on‑time production while coordinating with QA, maintenance, and planning.

The role requires hands‑on leadership and a focus on continuous improvement in a metal powder environment. Responsibilities include enforcing safety policies, scheduling tasks, overseeing batch documentation, and driving efficiency.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology, Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field preferred.
• 3-5 years of manufacturing experience required.
• Prior leadership, lead operator, or supervisory experience preferred.
• Experience in powder metallurgy, metal powder processing, chemical processing, or blending operations preferred.

Responsibilities

• Promote and enforce all safety policies and procedures.
• Lead and coordinate daily blending operations to meet production schedules and customer requirements.
• Assign work tasks and priorities to blending operators.
• Monitor workflow, equipment utilization, and downtime to maximize productivity.
• Ensure accurate execution of blend formulas, batch sheets, and work instructions.
• Coordinate with Quality Assurance for sampling and testing; investigate deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure traceability of raw materials and finished blends; manage material handling and inventory transactions.
• Coordinate preventive maintenance with the maintenance department and troubleshoot issues to minimize interruptions.

Skills

Safety compliance

Leadership and coaching

Reading batch records

Problem solving

Communication and leadership

ERP/inventory software

Material handling equipment

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

ERP software

Inventory management systems

Manufacturing software systems

Job description

Operator, Lead - Blend Department

Reports to: Shift Supervisor Work Location: Production - Blend FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Blend Department Lead is responsible for overseeing daily blending operations within the copper powder manufacturing process. This role ensures that powder blending activities are performed safely,efficiently, and in accordance with quality specifications, production schedules, and established operating procedures. The Blend Department Lead provides hands‑on leadership, coordinates employee activities,monitors equipment performance, and supports continuous improvement initiatives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Promote and enforce all company safety policies and procedures.
• Conduct routine safety inspections and participate in incident investigations.
• Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations related to metal powderhandling.
• Support housekeeping standards and 5S initiatives throughout the department.
• Lead and coordinate daily blending operations to meet production schedules and customerrequirements.
• Assign work tasks and priorities to blending operators.
• Monitor workflow and equipment utilization to maximize productivity and minimize downtime.
• Ensure accurate execution of blend formulas, batch sheets, and work instructions.
• Communicate production status, challenges, and priorities to supervisors and management.
• Verify adherence to blend specifications and quality standards.
• Review batch documentation for completeness and accuracy.
• Coordinate sampling and testing activities with Quality Assurance personnel.
• Investigate quality deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure traceability of raw materials and finished blends.
• Monitor blending equipment performance and report maintenance needs.
• Coordinate preventive maintenance activities with the maintenance department.
• Troubleshoot process and equipment issues to minimize production interruptions.
• Recommend process improvements to enhance product quality, efficiency, and consistency.
• Verify availability of raw materials for scheduled production.
• Ensure accurate material handling, storage, and inventory transactions.
• Monitor material usage and identify opportunities to reduce waste.
• Coordinate with warehouse and production planning personnel.
• Other duties as tasked by site leadership.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Train, mentor, and develop blending operators.
• Provide daily coaching and performance feedback.
• Assist with onboarding of new employees.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Participate in performance evaluations and disciplinary processes as needed.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology, Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field preferred.
• 3-5 years of manufacturing experience required.
• Previous experience in powder metallurgy, metal powder processing, chemical processing, or blending operations preferred.
• Prior leadership, lead operator, or supervisory experience preferred.
• Possess Ability to maintain regular and consistent attendance to support production schedules and operational requirements.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and quality systems.
• Knowledge of powder handling and industrial safety practices.
• Ability to read and interpret batch records, production schedules, and work instructions.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication and leadership abilities.
• Proficiency with ERP, inventory, and manufacturing software systems.
• Ability to operate forklifts, hoists, and material handling equipment as required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in an industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to dust, noise, andvarying temperatures.
• Ability to wear required PPE, including respirators when necessary.

Kymera International is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, or veteran status.