Process Operator (Production)

Zoltek Corporation; Saint Charles (MO); On-site; USD 13,638 - 19,424; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical plan

Flexible spending accounts

Vision insurance

Paid Time Off

Holiday pay

Tuition assistance program

Short term and long term disability coverage

Employee assistance program

Optional life insurance

401(k) program

Job summary

Zoltek Corporation is seeking Process Operators to work at our Missouri Research Park facility. This role involves operating equipment for manufacturing and chopping of carbon fiber according to set procedures and specifications. Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED, with at least a year of experience in a manufacturing environment.

The position requires effective communication, the ability to follow safety protocols, and a commitment to quality. The starting compensation is $12.00 per hour, along with a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Ability to document information and follow procedures.
• Willingness to maintain a safe and ethical work environment.
• Ability to lift and perform physical tasks as needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate machines for manufacturing carbon fiber.
• Inspect quality and report problems to supervisors.
• Maintain cleanliness and safety of work area.

Skills

Manufacturing experience

Mathematical calculations

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Safety procedures knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Zoltek is looking for Process Operators to join our team in our Missouri Research Park facility (Weldon Spring area). The Process Operators will operate equipment used for manufacturing and chopping of carbon fiber in accordance with the technical data sheets (TDS) and operating manuals, and in compliance with Zoltek’s safety procedures. General responsibilities will include the following:

• Follow procedures to ensure safety, quality and production of product.
• Inspect size/quality of processed material, ensuring customer’s specifications are met.
• Remove boxes up to 40 pounds from processing line, attach labels and complete necessary paperwork for inventory control.
• Remove and package samples for Quality Control.
• Inspect equipment and product for potential problems and report to supervisor immediately.
• Maintain equipment and work area – the areas are to remain clean and free of hazardous obstacles.
• Wear required personal protective equipment at all times, be knowledgeable of safety procedures for work area.
• Communicate with team members, supervisor and co-workers effectively.
• Document information and complete paperwork as required.

The Process Operator may be cross-trained and work in multiple positions in the manufacturing process, operating various machines including batch, oxidizers, chopping and milling machines or textile machinery.

• Batch operation: Enter information into programmable logic control panel keypad, read and document temperatures, inspect batch interiors, follow a production schedule to load and unload batch carbonization furnaces with fibers, fabrics and yarns; wind carbon/oxidized fiber fabrics.
• Oxidizer operation: Link carbon fiber tows using a portable sewing machine, track to ensure proper movement through the creels and bars, inspect feed rollers for build-up and remove appropriately.
• Chop operation: Feed continuous strands of carbon fiber through chopper to be cut to length per customer’s specifications, monitor chopper to ensure correct operation of equipment.
• Mill operation: Feed fiber into feed end of mill process, monitor mill to ensure correct operation, inspect quality of processed material, ensuring customer specifications are met.

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or a GED is required.
• Experience of 1 year or more in manufacturing or a factory environment is strongly desired.
• Ability to perform simple mathematical calculations, read and interpret documents, follow procedures, document information, communicate effectively with foreman and co-workers.
• Ability to troubleshoot and take effective corrective action to resolve problems.
• Ability and willingness to maintain a safe and ethical work environment, work as a team member.
• Ability to lift, turn, bend, squat, kneel, reach, pull, walk or stand for periods of time.
• Must be able to tolerate heat and must be able to wear a dust mask and/or gloves as needed.

Additional Information

Work schedule: 12-hour shift from 8am-8pm for day shift teams and 8pm-8am for night shifts.

Compensation: The starting rate for this role is $12.00 per hour with opportunities for performance based increases. Zoltek also offers a competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical plan
• Flexible spending accounts
• Vision insurance
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday pay
• Tuition assistance program
• Short term and long term disability coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Optional life insurance
• 401(k) program.

Zoltek is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides a drug free work place.