The Performance Monofilament Department produces filaments that are used in various applications such as medical, tires, filters, sewing thread, automotive belts, trimmer line, and dental floss. The Extrusion Operator performs a variety of tasks in the operations of a horizontal gravity fed extruder, such as managing resin loaders and drying systems, setting extruder system temperatures, installation of dies and operating winders. In addition to operating the equipment, a high level of quality awareness is required.
Essential Functions
Read and comprehend shop order, BOM process & specifications
Pack filled spools, label spools/cartons/boxes according to instructions
Identify and locate parts according to BOM
Neatly and accurately fill out all extrusion paperwork
Set up, start up, and stop extruder according to process/procedures
Perform testing, tie lines, keep hopper filled, separate lines in tank and doff lines
Set up and operate doff timers/metered yardage systems/doff to buzzer to control yardage, maintain wind quality
Check and set winding tensions, operate, and monitor computers, laser mics, reports, enter data into NWA, identify out of control conditions
Monitor equipment/process setup against specifications, understand corrective actions
Efficiently manage/complete changeovers
Troubleshooting (Basic) - startup / target properties with assistance
Understand different types of die packs & their installation/removal procedure
Put roll stands in correct gear ratio per product; know when it's required
Set additive equipment to process, monitor and keep filled
Cook out, flush out, and purge extruder & understand when each type of clean out is required
Recognize quality problems based on QA data SPC/visual inspections, process equipment inspections
Use additives and understand the purpose of these additives
Troubleshoot equipment, additives, diameter measurement to root cause
Execute the “changeover” from one product to another product:
Remove and load drying system
Change winder components
Execute die change
Execute finish change
Input process settings (i.e., extruder, roll stands and winders)
Complete startup and sample testing requirement
Secondary Functions
Work in a safe manner and maintain general housekeeping
Demonstrate commitment to customer quality, business results and continuous improvement
Expected to increase knowledge and progressively improve individual performance
Manage daily tasks to achieve target production rates
Other assignments as requested
Position Specifications
Shift work required
Overtime required as needed to cover absences/vacations
Strong listening and communication skills
Strong attention to detail and organization skills required
Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot problems
Basic computer skills
Must demonstrate commitment to safety
Must demonstrate a willingness and desire to learn
Must demonstrate effective time management and sound judgment
Ability to make basic mathematical calculations (including addition, subtraction, finding averages)
Ability to read information and numbers and write legibly
Must demonstrate a willingness to assist other operators when necessary
Job Training
Shakespeare Safety Orientation
NWA/SPC training
Forklift/Pallet Jack Certification
Required Education and Experience
High school diploma or equivalent required
Experience as an Extrusion operator preferred
Physical Requirements / Work Environment:
Ability to lift 50 lbs.
Ability to bend, climb, kneel, sit, and walk (short periods) and stand (long periods of 6-8 hours)
Ability to use motorized equipment (forklift, pallet jack)
Hand /finger agility: grasp, move, adjust
Manufacturing environment: not uniformly heated / cooled, exposure to dust/ fumes