Extrusion Operator Specialist

General Summary
Extrusion Operator Specialist is responsible for the set up and operation of complicated production machinery (e.g., Extrusion Line, Entek, Moulder, Inline Slotters) in accordance with established procedures and guidelines. Works under general supervision; relies on experience and general instructions to perform the functions of the job. Ensures final product meets customer expectations.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities
Secures and maintains material and supplies required on the operation.
Completes work area set up.
Operates the machine in a safe and efficient manner and according to established procedures.
Continually watches the machine to ensure quality.
Stacks completed products in accordance with established procedures and if required, may cover, label and band components/finish product.
Operates hand tools to complete assembly process.
Ensures work area is safe, clean, organized, and that equipment is safe to operate.
Completes pre-shift/startup equipment inspection checklist and reports any problems or concerns.
Maintains production records as required.
Checks materials and finished products to ensure compliance with standards.
Performs duties consistent with established safety and quality procedures, rules, and standards.
May perform preventive maintenance as specified.
Participates in safety, CI and other programs and meetings.
Helps to develop/train/mentor Extrusion Operator Trainees and Extrusion Operator I and II's.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Job Specifications

Knowledge
High school diploma/GED preferred but not required.
Minimum of 6 months experience as an Extrusion Operator II is required.
Must be able to start up all extrusion lines and profiles consistently.
Must be able to make billet adjustments to calibrate billet.
Must be able to perform color changes with cap and substrate.
Must be able to adjust in line slotters when out of spec.
Can identify and solve run issues with in-line adjustments. (temps, air, water adjustments, etc).
Must demonstrate ability to test for and identify quality issues. (e.g., bow, crook, color, length, density, slip, flex testing, ash, melt flow, cap thickness, etc.).
Must have thorough knowledge of critical characteristics of product families and colors.
Must be able to train other operators in line controls and start up.
Must be able to identify and solve quality issues with in-line adjustments.
Thorough understanding of extrusion machine process.
Working knowledge of mathematical functions.
Basic understanding of computer equipment and software.
Must be at least 18 years of age.

Skills and abilities
Ability to work in a safe manner.
Ability to recognize quality of material.
Has completed "Authorized" LOTO Training.
Has completed and PASSED all required Level 3 Extrusion Training. Demonstrates ability to follow specific instructions and directions.
Demonstrate ability to use and operate hand tools.
Demonstrate ability to stack material properly.
Ability to pay attention to surroundings.
Ability to identify safety issues in their work area and notice equipment malfunctions.
Ability to understand basic verbal and written instructions in English.
Ability to read a tape measure and read blueprints or plans.
Ability to read calipers.
Ability to troubleshoot the machine or equipment in use.
Ability to understand efficiencies and productivity measures.
Demonstrate eye-hand coordination.
Ability to work under immediate supervision.
Ability to pass a drug test.
Ability to work hours mandated by management.
Ability to work hours mandated by management

Ability to Perform Basic Equipment Maintenance
Clean Embosser Roller in line.
Change/Clean Spray Nozzles.
Understands how to prevent/correct water overflow.
Cleaning the Calibration Block.
Change Vacuum Filters.
Clean Draw Dies.
Remove/Attach Vacuum Hoses.
Identify if the Vacuum Block is clean.
Change Water Filter Cartridges.
Adjust Calibration Block.
Perform Slotter adjustments.

Conduct
Safety conscious
Team player and goal oriented
Open to change and positive attitude
Committed to plant and company goals
Participates in Safety and CI programs
Punctual and reliable
Looks for ways to improve productivity and department results.

Responsibilities
Based on trial plans, prepare the line to execute trials:
o Prepare materials.
o Set up dies and calibrators.
o Set up equipment in varied other configurations.
Execute line trials.
o Startup
o Identify, track, and collect samples.
o Record and communicate process data.
o This is going to include operating the line with non-standard procedures on a routine basis.
Develop in depth understanding of equipment and process, troubleshoot and address issues.
Conduct testing on product properties including standard QC tests as well as specialized non-QC tests.
Assist in other functions of the R&D and engineering functions as directed.
Be self-driven to meet project goals in a timely manner.
Work under minimal supervision with the project priorities in mind.
Take ownership of the trial line to plan and execute trials efficiently.
Assume accountability for assigned tasks and staying on schedule.
Be flexible to adapt to changing work environment and priorities.
Be willing to take more responsibilities as the job requires and evolves.

For this position a high degree of initiative is expected. The successful candidate will work closely with the R&D staff as well as acting as the floor liaison with the production & maintenance team.
The work schedule is a weekday daytime; to meet trial objectives, some flexibility on working hours is expected.