Production Operator I Extruder

Paycom - ATS; Culpeper (VA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Paycom - ATS is seeking a manufacturing machine operator to set up, operate, and monitor production equipment in a standard manufacturing environment in Culpeper, Virginia. The role emphasizes accuracy, adherence to standard work, and strict PPE usage to maintain safety and product quality.

Responsibilities include loading materials, performing pre-operational checks, recording data, and communicating shifts and issues to QA and supervisors.

Qualifications

• Requires a high degree of attention to detail, as even small errors can result in significant problems during the manufacturing process.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety-toe shoes, safety glasses, and hearing protection is required in the work area.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate machines according to job specifications.
• Verify correct materials and tooling are loaded; perform pre-operational checks.
• Load/unload materials and stage them per job traveler.
• Perform in-process quality checks and document results.
• Monitor machines for jams, misfeeds, or abnormalities and adjust settings within authorized parameters.
• Keep work area clean, organized, and safe; report malfunctions immediately.

Skills

Attention to detail

Machine operation

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Job SummaryThis role is primarily focused on the set up, operation, and monitoring of processes on one or more machines. Associates will also complete required documentation of process steps per standard work and job specifications..Essential Job Duties/Functions (Not all inclusive):Machine Setup and OperationPrepare and set up equipment according to job specificationsVerify correct materials and tooling are loadedPerform pre-operational checks and ensure safety guards are in placeMaterial HandlingLoad/unload spools, reels, and rods safely and efficientlyStage materials as required per job travelerEnsure correct rod types and components are used for specific cable constructionsIn-Process Quality ChecksCut and submit samples to QA as required by standard work (e.g., after setup, each spool, or per shift)Visually inspect cable for defects (e.g., insulation damage, misalignment, surface contamination)Use micrometers, calipers, or other gauges to measure critical dimensionsProcess MonitoringWatch machines closely during production for jams, misfeeds, or other abnormalitiesMonitor for correct tension, alignment, and application of armor, tape, or jacketingAdjust settings as necessary within authorized parametersDocumentation & TraceabilityAccurately record production data, spool numbers, lot numbers, and test resultsComplete job travelers and inspection formsReport production output and any deviations or nonconformancesCommunication & HandoffsCommunicate clearly with QA, supervisors, and other shifts regarding status, issues, or changesDocument and pass down in-process conditions during shift changeMaintenance & HousekeepingPerform minor machine maintenance and cleaning (e.g., clearing wire paths, changing tooling)Keep work area clean, organized, and free from trip hazardsReport any machine malfunctions or safety concerns immediatelySafety & ComplianceFollow all safety protocols including PPE requirementsLockout/tagout as requiredFollow all standard work, process instructions, and quality proceduresAdditional duties as assignedEducationHigh School Diploma or GED preferredWork ExperiencePrior experience as a manufacturing machine operator is desirableRequired & Preferred Skills and CompetenciesRequires a high degree of attention to detail, as even small errors can result in significant problems during the manufacturing process.Work EnvironmentThe work environment and physical demands described here represent those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation.The work setting is in a typical manufacturing environment that requires the use of personal protective equipment including safety-toe shoes with metatarsal guards, safety glasses, and hearing protection. Manufacturing areas may be affected by outside temperatures and machining.Physical DemandsThe physical demands represent those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation.Must be able to: sit, kneel, crouch, stoop, stand, walk, climb ramps and/or stairs; read and write, work with a computer and keyboard; hear, understand, and distinguish speech and/or other sounds (e.g., machinery, sirens, and alarms); speak to express or exchange ideas, impart oral information to include instructions; vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, peripheral and depth perception.Must be able to lift up to 35 pounds.