Extrusion Operator I - Swedesboro, NJ

Americhem - Swedesboro, NJ

Full-time - Entry Level

Swedesboro, NJ

Chemical Manufacturing

About the position

The Extrusion Operator is responsible for processing products from non-complex color compounds in a safe and efficient manner, according to specifications and procedures. Responsibilities also include setting up, operating, and tending extruding machines used in processing products. The incumbent is expected to perform the job duties under the direction of the team leader or Level 3 co-workers.

Responsibilities

• Holds safety in highest regard by making good safety decisions, following safety procedures, watching out for the safety of self and others, contributing to safety improvements and participating in safety programs.
• Applies safety precautions by transporting materials, tools, and equipment without incident to work and storage areas using hoists, carts, dollies or other equipment.
• Starts the work process by checking the work assignment board for the campaign number to verify proper product identification and then pulling the work binder and labor sheet with specifications.
• Prepares work area for compound production by retrieving color mix, selecting the correct die, screw, and cutting blade.
• Works with the team leader or a Level 3 co-worker to determine machine setup by reviewing and following product specifications noted on the labor sheet(s).
• Sets up or changes over extruder by setting feed rate and temperature, entering specification onto the extruder screen, attaching the correct die, and attaching the correct blade to the pelletizer.
• Sets up extruder screen by entering specification number, campaign number, and setting water temperature for the Gala.
• Completes work order specifications by installing, replacing, and changing machine parts and attachments.
• Adds the color mix to the feeder by using a tow motor to lift the color pot up to the platform, and setting it in the proper slot.
• Produces compound samples according to specifications by using production equipment, devices and instruments (i.e. extruders, scales, feeders, classifiers, pelletizers, dies, visual display units (VDU), dials, calibrators).
• Creates pellets, under the guidance of the team leader or Level 3 co-worker, by running the compound through the extruder to the pelletizer, through the Gala or cooling trough, through the sizing screens, and into a shipping container.
• Checks the quality of pellets, under the guidance of the team leader or Level 3 co-worker, by pressing a sample to ensure there is no 'salt/pepper' (light/dark) mix.
• Reprocesses pellets that do not meet color specifications (i.e., mix of light and dark pellets) by placing pellets into the tumbler to remix and re-rerun through the injection molded/extruder machine.
• Prepares product container for shipping by retrieving the correct type/size container (e.g., drums or totes) and printing the barcoded shipping label.
• Changes machine settings throughout the process, with the guidance of the team leader or Level 3 co-worker, by adjusting functional parts of devices and control instruments using various types of settings and tools to assure product quality: recording changes on the labor sheet.
• Monitors the production process by troubleshooting problems or operation errors on the line that affects product quality and reports issues to the team leader or Level 3 co-worker.
• Makes adjustments and troubleshoots production errors (e.g. feed speed) by applying mathematical calculations.
• Completes process by updating the labor sheet with the final specifications, adding the specification sheet to the work binder, updating the work board, and finalizing the packaging by adding the shipping label to the container, and placing the container in the shipping area.
• Prepares report of product production by collecting and summarizing information and trends on the production checklist.
• Documents processing specifications and labor hours, by entering information onto computer screens, in reports, forms and/or logs.
• Finishes the production process by using a tow motor to move completed material to shipping, updating the work board with the project status, and returning the work binder to its proper place on the shelf.
• Keeps machinery and mechanical equipment operational by performing preventive maintenance (i.e., check, clean, lubricate, adjustments/repairs) tasks on machines and equipment (i.e. extruder, mixer, feeders, pelletizers) with the guidance of the team leader or a Level 3 co-worker.
• Conveys equipment problems to the team leader or Level 3 co-worker by documenting and sharing machine error messages or information obtained from visual inspections.
• Investigates sources of problems by observing mechanical devices in operation, listening for problems, using precision measuring, and testing instruments, and notifying the team leader or Level 3 co-worker of potential problems.
• Cleans and prepares extruder and die for processing new batches by tearing down machines, using hand tools and cleaning solution or other equipment to remove the color compound from the extruder and its parts.
• Records machine performance of produced material by maintaining written documentation or logs of calibrations and speeds.
• Identifies machine and equipment requiring repair or maintenance by conveying the need to the team leader and maintenance.
• Informs team leader and maintenance of repair needs by inspecting or testing damaged machine parts.
• Provides mechanical maintenance information by responding to management and maintenance questions or requests.
• Increases production efficiency and effectiveness by suggesting changes in working conditions and the use of equipment.
• Promotes harmonious work relations by responding to inquiries, complaints, and requests in a timely and professional manner.
• Keeps work area clean and organized by collecting and discarding material, worn machine parts and other refuse.
• Follows all quality system, safety protocols, and environmental tasks by safely operating equipment, wearing proper protective equipment (PPE), completing safety training, and contributing to established safety goals.
• Contributes to continuous improvement by participating on teams and assisting in the implementation of new ideas.
• Contributes to organization success by meeting team and company goals.
• Improves job knowledge by attending training and keeping relevant knowledge and skills current.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• 1-2 years of relevant work experience in manufacturing/production preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Knowledge of materials, methods, equipment, machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
• Knowledge of production processes and techniques for effective manufacture of products.
• Knowledge of compound formulation and ability to evaluate color (Hue, Chroma, and Shade).
• Knowledge of principles and processes for providing exceptional customer service to include customer needs assessment, quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
• Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, and procedures that promote safety for personnel and property.
• Fundamental knowledge of quality controls and continuous improvement applications.
• Knowledge and application of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.
• Computer literate to include knowledge and application of information and data management systems, electronic equipment, and computer software (i.e., Microsoft Suite, Oracle).
• Valid driver's license with reliable automobile transportation.
• Tow Motor Forklift certification.

Benefits

• BenefitHub
• Medical, dental, vision, prescription & life insurance
• Health savings account
• Flexible Spending Account
• Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity Insurance
• Supplemental Life and AD&D Insurance
• Short- and long-term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) with a generous company match and no vesting schedule
• 10 paid holiday, 120 hour of PTO
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Employee Assistance Program