Special Operations Operator

Task Force Tips, Inc.; Valparaiso (IN); On-site; USD 38,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Task Force Tips, Inc. is seeking a hands‑on Special Operations Operator in a manufacturing environment. The role focuses on bonding, deflashing, and operating rubber and plastic injection molding, plastic welding, powder coating, laser engraving, labeling, and related finishing processes.

Attention to detail, safety, and teamwork are essential as you work to produce high‑quality parts. You will handle setup, operation, and basic maintenance of multiple machines, perform daily production counts,

Qualifications

• 2–3 years of manufacturing experience (minimum).
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
• OSHA safety procedures knowledge.
• Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity.
• Good problem‑solving and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Bonding agents applied to mold inserts and bonding operations performed.
• Deflash molded parts by removing excess rubber and plastic.
• Set up and operate rubber and plastic injection molding equipment.
• Operate plastic welding and powder coating equipment as needed.
• Perform deburring and sandblasting to meet specifications.
• Operate laser engraving, label printers and laminators.
• Maintain molds and keep work area clean and organized.
• Record daily production counts and inspect parts for quality.
• Identify issues and communicate to supervisor; suggest improvements.

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Special Operations Operator

Our Mission

Task Force Tips Inc. is a mission-driven company dedicated to building life‑saving equipment and putting it in the hands of first responders. The quality and reliability of our products matter because people depend on them when conditions are at their worst.

We are looking for a Special Operations Operator who takes pride in hands‑on work, pays close attention to detail, and is committed to producing high‑quality parts while working safely and efficiently.

The Opportunity

The Special Operations Operator plays an important role in TFT's manufacturing process, working with a variety of specialized equipment and processes. This position is responsible for bonding and deflashing molded parts and operating equipment used for rubber and plastic injection molding, plastic welding, powder coating, laser engraving, labeling, and other finishing operations.

This is a great opportunity for someone with manufacturing experience who enjoys variety, working with their hands, troubleshooting problems, and being part of a team focused on producing quality products.

What You Will Do

• Apply bonding agents to mold inserts and perform bonding operations.
• Deflash molded parts by removing excess rubber and plastic from parting lines and runners.
• Set up and operate rubber and plastic injection molding equipment.
• Operate plastic welding equipment.
• Apply powder coating to parts, including masking and demasking areas as needed.
• Deburr and sandblast parts as necessary to meet specifications.
• Set up and operate laser engraving equipment.
• Set up and operate label printers and laminators.
• Apply Vibra‑Seal and thread lubricant to anodized aluminum parts.
• Keep molds clean and properly maintained during operation, including molds with fine details.
• Complete daily production counts using both paper and computer systems.
• Inspect manufactured parts to ensure they meet high visual and physical quality standards.
• Maintain a clean and orderly work area, including sweeping and removing debris.
• Identify and communicate apparent problems with parts or equipment to your supervisor.
• Problem‑solve and troubleshoot issues when appropriate.
• Proactively suggest improvements to products, processes, and work practices.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What You Bring

• A minimum of 2–3 years of experience working in a manufacturing environment.
• Previous experience with powder coating, rubber or plastic injection molding equipment, or similar manufacturing processes is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of or the ability to safely operate manufacturing equipment and hand tools, including injection molding, compression, degreasing, sandblasting, laser engraving, plastic welding, powder coating, grinders, drills, hammers, knives, and deflashing tools.
• Knowledge of OSHA and company safety procedures and the ability to apply them in the workplace.
• The ability to read and interpret blueprints.
• Basic math skills, including counting, addition, subtraction, and geometric calculations.
• Basic computer skills with the ability to enter, access, and retrieve information.
• The ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision.
• The ability to manage multiple tasks, work efficiently for extended periods, and perform effectively under time pressure.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• The flexibility to occasionally work extended hours.

This is a hands‑on position performed in a manufacturing environment around machinery and typical production noise. The role requires following established safety precautions and may involve prolonged standing or sitting, close visual work, grasping and handling parts and tools, wearing protective equipment, and lifting up to 50 pounds.