Operator I

Mission Statement

As a Mannington Associate I am expected to conduct myself in a manner which supports the company's values and philosophy, while performing in the best interest of my fellow associates. I am expected to contribute to our mission statement: to be the best people to do business with in the flooring industry.

Machine Operator

Department: Manufacturing / Production
Shift: 8-hour shifts as scheduled, overtime as needed

Position Summary

The Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining extrusion lines used to manufacture rubber wall base, moldings, and stair treads. This role ensures safe operation, consistent product quality, and efficient production in accordance with Burke Flooring's quality and safety standards.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

1. Line Set-Up

• Set up equipment and regulate machines to proper temperatures (heat dies)
• Set up and heat vertical extruder when required
• Fill hoppers with appropriate materials
• Load material into the main extruder via vacuum system from bulk containers
• Load vertical extruders using buckets from gaylords

2. Line Start-Up

• Purge extruders
• Close extruders and initiate start-up procedures
• Thread product through downstream equipment
• Monitor components (heater bands, thermal couplers, cooling fans) for optimal performance
• Adjust size, thickness, shape, length, and finish to meet QC specifications

3. Production

• Perform quality checks as required throughout the shift
• Inspect for profile accuracy, color consistency, surface defects
• Accurately complete production and quality reports
• Retain appropriate hourly samples for Quality Control (30-minute intervals)
• Maintain proper material levels in all hoppers
• Pick up finished products from the conveyor system and place them onto a pallet
• Relieve Packers for scheduled breaks
• Prepare cartons as necessary

4. Production Changes

• Review production schedule for upcoming product runs
• Preheat required dies
• Communicate material needs to Material Handler
• Return dies to die cleaning area following changeover

5. Housekeeping

• Perform general housekeeping when production activities allow, including sweeping and trash removal
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area

6. Other Duties

• Perform other duties as assigned by supervision

Safety Requirements

• Report all unsafe working conditions immediately to a supervisor
• Ensure all machine guards remain in proper position
• Demonstrate proper lifting techniques
• Demonstrate safe use of ladders
• Properly use required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including:
• Ear protection
• Eye protection
• Safety shoes

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to stand for the duration of an 8- or 12-hour shift
• Ability to lift 50 pounds
• Ability to climb ladders as required
• Work in variable temperatures throughout the year
• Extreme heat conditions will occur during the shift
• Scheduled breaks provided every two hours
• Continuous exposure to high noise levels; hearing protection required

Technical Skills

• Experience operating extrusion or similar manufacturing equipment (preferred)
• Ability to monitor process parameters (temperature, speed, pressure)
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills
• Familiarity with quality inspection standards

Soft Skills & Work Habits

• Strong attention to detail and quality
• Commitment to safety and teamwork
• Reliable attendance and punctuality
• Willingness to learn and cross-train on multiple lines

Mannington Mills is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug and tobacco free workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any legally protected status.