Machine Operator (extrusion) 1st shift

Role details

Extrusion Operator 1st shift Join Americhem as a fist -shift Extrusion Operator and help produce non-complex color compounds safely and efficiently. You will set up, operate, monitor, troubleshoot, clean, and maintain extrusion and pelletizing equipment while following product specifications and procedures. You will work under the direction of the team leader or Level 3 co-workers.

Location Morrisville, Pa Employment type Non-exempt Shift 1st shift, Monday-Friday, 8am to 4pm Training Must be able to train on 1st shift Pay Starting at $21 per hour, plus a $1.75 shift differential The Extrusion Operator processes products from non-complex color compounds according to specifications and procedures. The role includes setting up, operating, and tending extruding machines used in production.

What You Will Do

Put safety first by making sound safety decisions, following procedures, watching out for yourself and others, contributing to safety improvements, and participating in safety programs. Transport materials, tools, and equipment safely between work and storage areas using hoists, carts, dollies, or other equipment. Start each assignment by checking the work assignment board for the campaign number, verifying product identification, and retrieving the work binder and labor sheet with specifications. Prepare the work area for compound production by retrieving the color mix and selecting the correct die, screw, and cutting blade.

Work with the team leader or a Level 3 co-worker to determine machine setup by reviewing and following the product specifications on the labor sheet. Set up or change over the extruder by setting the feed rate and temperature, entering specifications on the extruder screen, attaching the correct die, and attaching the correct blade to the pelletizer. Set up the extruder screen by entering the specification number and campaign number and setting the water temperature for the Gala. Complete work order specifications by installing, replacing, and changing machine parts and attachments.

Use a tow motor to lift the color pot to the platform, place it in the proper slot, and add the color mix to the feeder. Produce compound samples to specification using extruders, scales, feeders, classifiers, pelletizers, dies, visual display units, dials, calibrators, and other production equipment, devices, and instruments. Under the guidance of the team leader or a Level 3 co-worker, run compound through the extruder to the pelletizer, through the Gala or cooling trough, through sizing screens, and into a shipping container to create pellets.

Check pellet quality under the guidance of the team leader or a Level 3 co-worker by pressing a sample to confirm there is no salt-and-pepper mix of light and dark pellets. Reprocess pellets that do not meet color specifications by placing them in the tumbler to remix and rerunning them through the injection-molding or extruder machine. Prepare product containers for shipping by retrieving the correct type and size, such as drums or totes, and printing the barcoded shipping label. Adjust machine settings throughout production with guidance from the team leader or a Level 3 co-worker.

Adjust functional parts, devices, and control instruments as needed to maintain product quality, and record changes on the labor sheet. Monitor production, troubleshoot problems or operating errors that affect product quality, and report issues to the team leader or a Level 3 co-worker. Use mathematical calculations to make adjustments and troubleshoot production errors, including feed-speed issues. Complete the process by updating the labor sheet with final specifications, adding the specification sheet to the work binder, updating the work board, applying the shipping label, and placing the container in the shipping area.

Prepare product production reports by collecting and summarizing information and trends on the production checklist. Document processing specifications and labor hours by entering information on computer screens and in reports, forms, and logs. Use a tow motor to move completed material to shipping, update the work board with project status, and return the work binder to its proper place. Help keep extruders, mixers, feeders, pelletizers, and related mechanical equipment operational by checking, cleaning, lubricating, adjusting, and repairing equipment under the guidance of the team leader or a Level 3 co-worker.

Document machine error messages and information from visual inspections, then share equipment problems with the team leader or a Level 3 co-worker. Investigate potential problems by observing mechanical devices in operation, listening for issues, and using precision measuring and testing instruments. Notify the team leader or a Level 3 co-worker of potential problems. Clean and prepare the extruder and die for new batches by tearing down machines and using hand tools, cleaning solution, or other equipment to remove color compound from the extruder and its parts. Maintain written records or logs of calibrations and speeds to document machine performance and produced material.

Identify machines and equipment that need repair or maintenance, inspect or test damaged parts, and notify the team leader and maintenance. Provide mechanical maintenance information by responding to questions and requests from management and maintenance. Suggest changes in working conditions and equipment use that may improve production efficiency and effectiveness. Support positive working relationships by responding to inquiries, complaints, and requests promptly and professionally. Keep the work area clean and organized by collecting and discarding material, worn machine parts, and other refuse.

Follow all quality-system, safety, and environmental requirements by operating equipment safely, wearing required personal protective equipment, completing safety training, and contributing to established safety goals. Contribute to continuous improvement by participating on teams and helping implement new ideas. Support team and company goals, attend training, and keep relevant knowledge and skills current.

Required Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent. Knowledge of materials, methods, equipment, machines, and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance. Knowledge of production processes and techniques used to manufacture products effectively. Knowledge of compound formulation and the ability to evaluate color, including hue, chroma, and shade. Knowledge of customer-service principles and processes, including customer-needs assessment, service-quality standards, and evaluation of customer satisfaction. Knowledge of equipment, policies, and procedures that support the safety of personnel and property. Fundamental knowledge of quality controls and continuous-improvement applications.

Knowledge and application of arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. Computer literacy, including knowledge and use of information and data-management systems, electronic equipment, and software such as Microsoft Suite and Oracle. Valid driver's license and reliable automobile transportation. Tow Motor Forklift certification. Preferred Qualification One to two years of relevant manufacturing or production work experience.

Benefits Medical, dental, vision, prescription, and life insurance Health savings account Flexible spending account Critical illness and hospital indemnity insurance Supplemental life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance Short-term and long-term disability insurance 401(k) with a generous company match and no vesting schedule 10 paid holidays and 120 hours of paid time off Retirement Savings Plan Employee Assistance Program Americhem’s Commitment to Safety “We believe that every employee has the right to work in an environment free from hazards, and it’s our responsibility to identify, assess, and mitigate risks to ensure their well-being.

Safety is not just a priority; it is a core value embedded in everything we do.”\ Americhem is committed to conducting business with respect for the environment, the law, ethics, and the health and safety of our employees, customers, suppliers, and the public.