Production Operator

Madison Polymeric Eng.; Washington; On-site; USD 51,577,000 - 74,776,000; Full time

Job summary

Madison Polymeric Eng. is seeking a Production Operator to operate manufacturing equipment, load materials, monitor processes, and help meet production schedules in a unionized environment with safety and quality at the forefront.

Candidates should have a high school diploma, be able to follow written and verbal instructions in English, and demonstrate basic mechanical aptitude; prior manufacturing experience is preferred for faster onboarding.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Prior manufacturing experience preferred.
• Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and attention to detail essential.
• Must communicate effectively in English, both written and verbal.

Responsibilities

• Operate production equipment and follow SOPs.
• Load and unload materials as required.
• Monitor equipment and report malfunctions.
• Maintain output to meet schedule requirements.
• Adhere to safety rules, OSHA regulations, and PPE requirements.
• Complete production logs, count sheets, and quality records accurately.
• Enter production data into ERP/MRP or manufacturing systems as required.
• Follow engineering changes and updated work instructions.
• Work cooperatively with supervisors, coworkers, and union representatives.

Skills

English communication

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Manual dexterity

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Description

The Production Operator is responsible for operating manufacturing equipment and performing assigned production tasks in accordance with established procedures, safety requirements, and collective bargaining agreements. This role supports efficient production by ensuring consistent output, maintaining product quality, and following standard work practices. The objective is to meet production goals while adhering to safety, quality, and union standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Production Operations:

• Operate production equipment and machinery according to work instructions and standard operating procedures
• Load and unload materials, components, or parts as required
• Monitor equipment operation and report abnormalities or malfunctions
• Maintain consistent production output to meet schedule requirements
• Follow job assignments and classifications as defined by the collective bargaining agreement

Quality & Inspection:

• Perform in-process inspections and visual checks as required
• Identify, document, and report nonconforming product
• Follow quality procedures and work instructions
• Segregate and label defective or suspect materials

Safety & Compliance:

• Follow all safety rules, OSHA regulations, and PPE requirements
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area
• Report safety hazards, near misses, and incidents promptly
• Comply with company policies and union agreements

Documentation & Systems:

• Complete production logs, count sheets, and quality records accurately
• Enter production data into ERP/MRP or manufacturing systems as required
• Follow engineering changes and updated work instructions

Teamwork & Continuous Improvement:

• Work cooperatively with supervisors, coworkers, and union representatives
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives as assigned
• Support cross-training efforts within job classification guidelines

Other Responsibilities:

• Assist with material handling and basic equipment care as allowed by union agreement
• Perform other duties within job classification as assigned

Qualifications / Education / Experience Required:

High school diploma or equivalent required. Prior manufacturing or production experience preferred. Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions required. Basic mechanical aptitude and attention to detail essential. Must be able to communicate effectively in English, both written and verbal.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working in a union manufacturing environment
• Familiarity with production equipment and manufacturing processes
• Basic inspection and measurement skills
• Experience in a regulated manufacturing environment a plus
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment

Supervision Required:

• Close supervision; follows established procedures and direction

Training Required After Hire:

• Safety and OSHA compliance
• Job-specific equipment and process trainingQuality and inspection procedures
• Company policies and union guidelines

Physical Requirements: (Check all applicable requirements)

Communication:

Able to communicate clearly and effectively in the English language.

Vision:

Able to read work instructions, labels, and basic production documentation (corrective lenses acceptable).

Hearing:

Able to carry on normal conversation (hearing aid acceptable).
Able to hear alarms and equipment sounds in a manufacturing environment.

Dexterity:

Able to use hands and fingers to operate equipment and handle materials.
Able to write legibly and complete required documentation.

Mobility:

Able to move throughout production areas.
Able to access equipment, workstations, and material locations as needed.

Physical Demands:

• Standing 60 – 90% of the time
• Sitting 10 – 30% of the time
• Walking 30 – 60% of the time
• Lifting 20 – 40% of the time 5 lbs – 40 lb