Production Operator I

ALKEGEN; South Hill (VA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Alkegen is seeking a production operator to set up and operate manufacturing tools, ensuring quality and safety in a fast-paced environment. You will read work orders, prepare fixtures, verify gauges, and maintain equipment while following standard procedures and safety rules.

This role requires basic math, reliable communication, and the ability to work extended hours as needed, contributing to a team focused on consistent, high-quality output.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical/vocational training preferred.
• Candidates must be able to follow written and verbal instructions and safety rules.
• Ability to read gauges, measurement tools and follow specifications.
• Strong communication skills and reliability are essential.
• Willingness to work extended hours when required.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate tools and equipment per instructions and charts.
• Study work orders and specifications to ensure proper setup sequence.
• Select and position tools, supplies and equipment.
• Perform quality checks and verify measuring instruments are in good condition.
• Maintain a clean, safe manufacturing area and adhere to safety rules.
• Report any issues to supervisor and follow directions to resolve them.

Skills

Follow written instructions

Safety protocols

Ability to assess machinery status

Strong communication

Basic math

Versatility in roles

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Forklift operation

Job description

Job Requirements

Why work for us?

Alkegen brings together two of the world’s leading specialty materials companies to create one new, innovation-driven leader focused on battery technologies, filtration media, and specialty insulation and sealing materials. Through global reach and breakthrough inventions, we’re delivering products that enable the world to breathe easier, live greener, and go further than ever before.

With over 60 manufacturing facilities with a global workforce of over 9,000 of the industry’s most experienced talent, including insulation and filtration experts, Alkegen is uniquely positioned to help customers impact the environment in meaningful ways.

Alkegen offers a range of dynamic career opportunities with globe-spanning reach. From production operators to engineers, technicians to specialists, sales to leadership, we’re always looking for top talent ready to bring their best. Come grow with us!

Responsibilities

• Sets up and operates tools according to instructions, specifications, and standard charts.
• Studies work orders, and other specifications to ensure the proper setup sequence is followed.
• Selects, places, and secures tools, supplies, and equipment.
• Observes each task to verify quality performance.
• Verifies measuring instruments such as gauges, calipers, and micrometers are in proper working order.
• Sets and adjusts necessary controls to regulate machines.
• Cleans equipment, maintains a manufacturing area free from debris and dirt, and readies or puts away tools as assigned.
• Closely follows directions to operate machinery, hold or supply materials and tools, and load or unload items on machinery.
• May be trained to act as forklift operator or other powered equipment handler.
• Reports any issues to supervisor or higher-level employee.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Always maintain a safe work environment.
• Performs other duties as required or as assigned.
• Must adhere to all company and location policies and safety rules
• Must be able to work extended hours when required
• All other duties as assigned
• These responsibilities may change in the future to keep up with customer demands, equipment changes and improved Standard Operating Procedures

Required Skills/Abilities

• Ability to follow written instructions.
• Ability to follow proper safety protocols.
• Ability to determine whether machinery is working properly based on specifications for expectations such as fixtures, cutting speeds, or feed rates.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to listen, understand, and follow directions.
• Ability to work in a variety of roles.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Basic math skills
• Highly motivated

Education And Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical/vocational school diploma highly preferred.
• Job training for this position is provided

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to work in noisy environments.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as required
• Ability to bend, stoop, walk, twist, lift, stand, push and pull material

At Alkegen, we strive every day to help people – ALL PEOPLE – breathe easier, live greener and go further than ever before. We believe that diversity and inclusion is central to this mission and to our impact. Our diverse and inclusive culture drives our growth & innovation, and we nurture it by actively embracing our differences and using our varied perspectives to solve the complex challenges facing our changing and diverse world.

Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, nation of origin, religion, color, gender identity and expression, age, disability, education, opinions, culture, languages spoken, veteran’s status, or any other protected class.