Production Operator

Production Operator

Location: Warsaw, IN

Pay Rate & Shift Options

1st Shift

• Schedule: 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM
• Expected hours per shift: 8 hours
• Pay Rate: $20.00/hour

2nd Shift

• Schedule: 2:30 PM – 11:00 PM
• Expected hours per shift: 8 hours
• Pay Rate: $20.50/hour

3rd Shift

• Schedule: 10:30 PM – 7:00 AM
• Expected hours per shift: 8 hours
• Pay Rate: $21.00/hour

Saturday Requirement: Once fully trained, Saturday work approximately 1–2 times per month is mandatory when scheduled, regardless of shift.

Position Overview

The Production Operator is responsible for operating, cleaning, and maintaining production equipment used in the manufacturing of powder coatings. Working under the direction of the Production Supervisor, this position supports various stages of production, including weighing and blending raw materials, operating extrusion and grinding equipment, packaging finished products, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

This is a hands-on manufacturing position requiring attention to detail, basic mechanical aptitude, and the ability to follow production procedures and safety guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Package and palletize finished products into boxes, drums, gaylords, and supersacks ranging from 15 lbs. to 2,000 lbs.
• Operate production equipment, including grinders, extruders, blending equipment, and automated packaging systems.
• Clean and maintain grinders, extruders, testing equipment, charging equipment, and production totes.
• Operate forklifts and floor scrubbers to transport materials and maintain facility cleanliness.
• Collect samples of raw materials and finished products for quality control testing.
• Record production data, batch variables, and other required documentation.
• Weigh, stage, charge, and blend raw materials according to batch instructions.
• Monitor production equipment and make necessary adjustments to maintain product specifications and production efficiency.
• Perform quality checks, including contamination checks, sieve checks, and particle size analysis.
• Replace dust collector filters and assist with routine equipment cleaning and maintenance.
• Monitor automated packaging equipment, case erectors, bag inserters, and case sealers.
• Transport finished products to designated staging areas and prepare pallets for shipment.
• Maintain general housekeeping and ensure production areas remain clean and organized.
• Follow all company safety procedures, environmental requirements, and ISO 14001 standards.
• Participate in required safety meetings, training, and plant improvement programs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to operate production equipment.
• Previous manufacturing, warehouse, or production experience preferred.
• Forklift operating experience preferred.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, batch tickets, and production procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a production team.

Physical Requirements & Safety

• Must wear steel-toed shoes.
• Required personal protective equipment includes hard hat, safety glasses, face shield/goggles, nitrile gloves, hearing protection, company uniform, and respirator.
• Must follow all plant safety procedures and immediately address or report unsafe working conditions.
• Must be comfortable working in a manufacturing environment around production machinery, powders, and industrial equipment.