Senior Machine Operator - Converting Manufacturing

Imagine a company that recognizes excellence in not only the products it sells, but also in its employees. R.S. Hughes Company, Inc. is that company. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of quality and professionalism - and we treat our employees like the valuable assets they are.

Since 1959, Saunders has been proudly serving our customers with an exceptional level of personalized customer care that just can't be beat. We specialize in providing our customers with solutions that are tailored to each of their specific needs. Thanks to our innovative and diversified manufacturing team, we can provide die-cutting, laminating, slitting, packaging, assembly, and other manufacturing solutions to our customers at highly competitive industry rates.

We understand that the needs of our customers are constantly evolving. As demands from our customers grew, we knew we needed to evolve ourselves. So, we partnered with R.S. Hughes, which has enabled us to better serve each and every one of our customers. Thanks to this partnership, we can provide our customers with more options for custom-cut materials, furthering our solution finding capabilities. In addition to competitive salaries and benefits, we offer an environment that asks you to make a difference. We value hard work and common sense, and we consistently reward those that exemplify these traits. If you're looking for a great team to grow with and if you are willing to embrace the challenges of being expected to be the best, we welcome you to come join the R.S. Hughes Company, Inc. team!

Position Description

The Senior Machine Operator ensures their own machinery and that of their colleagues is set up and works properly to exceed quality and productivity standards, including technically complex pieces of machinery such as the Voorwood slitter/rewinder or Deltra rotary presses. This position plays a critical role in supporting efficient production operations for on-time delivery to meet our customer needs and deadlines. This role supports Production and Senior Leadership to drive optimized and profitable operations, while often participating in R&D for new business onboarding. The successful candidate will have strong mechanical skills, dynamic interpersonal skills, and must be able to proactively resolve machine repairs/maintenance as necessary. This role is expected to adhere to all company policies and safety protocols.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Maintains a safe and healthy work environment by following standards, procedures, and complying with legal regulations, implementing 5S methodology and other manufacturing principles.
• Thoroughly understands and can effectively operate and maintain a myriad of production machines resulting in an efficient production cycle in accordance with instructions and required job specifications.
• Reviews work orders/production schedules to determine specifications, and works with their colleagues to ensure optimal setup sequencing for materials, locations, dimensions, tolerances etc.
• Tests and adjusts the necessary controls to regulate machine speeds and actions
• Installs, aligns, and locks specified punches, dies, cutting blades, or other fixtures in rams or beds of machines, using gauges, templates, feelers, shims, and hand tools.
• Monitors machine operation during production runs and records operational data.
• Measures all completed and in process work pieces to verify conformance based on established standards or specifications, using calipers, micrometers, templates, or rulers.
• Routinely performs quality checks on all completed work piece to certify it meets the highest quality standards; examines for defects and makes corrections as necessary (i.e., damaged edges or disfigured surfaces)
• Proactively performs machine maintenance, upkeep, cleaning, and lubrication.
• Maintains acceptable productivity standards while minimizing raw material waste.
• Serves as a subject matter expert (SME) for all assigned machines, job types, R&D initiatives, new business onboarding etc.
• As SME, provides training and coaching for new or Level II Operators as they learn new machine operation or updated manufacturing SOPs.
• Partner with Production Management to provide coaching, guidance, and general oversight to ensure best manufacturing practices are followed.
• Performs other job duties as assigned.

Skills That Will Make You Successful

• Thorough understanding of mechanics and other properties of machines
• Ability to determine if machinery is working properly based on specs and fixtures, cutting speeds, or feed rates.
• Ability to follow written instructions and diagrams to complete work accurately.
• Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication, with equally strong attention to detail.
• Strong math skills including fractions, percentages, and precise measurement.
• Ability to adjust to multiple demands, shifting work priorities and change.
• Good record of job performance, attendance, and punctuality.

Education & Experience

• HS Diploma or GED Equivalent Required.
• At least 5+ years' experience in a manufacturing/ production environment Required.
• Demonstrated experience with rotary or flat-bed presses, slitters, rewinders, choppers, digital cutters or laser tables Required.
• Experience with laser cutting, digital cutting, Delta rotary Highly Preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to train and informally coach less experienced operators on new machinery or SOPS.
• Working knowledge of AutoCad Required.
• English language capability (verbal/ written / computer) Required.
• 3 party production and/or quality certifications Preferred.

Physical Requirements

• This job operates in a manufacturing environment. This role routinely uses standard manufacturing equipment, as well as standard office equipment such as computers and phones.
• Repetitive use of hands/dexterity to handle and control various manufacturing related tools/controls.
• Standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Operating machinery and/or power tools for prolonged periods.
• Must be able to ascend and descend ladders, scaffolds, and stairs.
• Must be able to work in confined spaces and in proximity to loud equipment.
• Must be able to lift/carry/push/pull up to 50 lbs.
• Close and distant vision, accurate color perception, and peripheral vision are critical.