Production Operator Jobs in Vanderbilt, MI (NOW HIRING)

Petoskey Plastics aspires to stand out as an industry leader in sustainability, using advanced recycling technology to manufacture high-quality films, bags, and resins from post-consumer materials. Our commitment to eco-friendly innovation sets us apart, as we strive to earn the appreciation and respect of our customers, associates, and communities. If you are seeking a family-oriented company that values career growth and provides robust paid training, explore the comprehensive benefits listed below to see how Petoskey Plastics can support your professional journey. 
We’re headquartered in Petoskey where our Lake Michigan shores are clasped by rhythmic waves of seafoam and cobalt. We’re honored to have roots in Texas, Tennessee, and Indiana as our production has expanded over the years. Our custom-engineered solutions tackle a variety of industries, including automotive, industrial, institutional, retail, construction, home improvement, medical, and more. Always moving forward! > IN THE NEWS 

A few of our over 20 competitive benefits: 

• Medical, Prescription, Dental, and Vision benefits - valued at $4/hr over your base pay! 

• PTO - start accruing just two weeks after your start date 

• Earn a $500 bonus for maintaining a full-time status for the first 90 days of employment with good attendance. 

• Petoskey Plastics pays 3% of your annual earnings into your 401k regardless of your contribution! 

• Profit Sharing 

• Birthday Pay 

• Call-in Bonus  

• Safety Shoe and Safety Glasses Reimbursement 

• Tuition Reimbursement 

• Wellness Reimbursement (up to $400 annually)  

• Life Insurance 

• Short- and Long-Term Disability 

A Line Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of production lines in their designated department. The role requires collaboration with other operators, a strong focus on quality, and accurate documentation of daily production, quality, scrap and machine downtime.  Key duties include strong problem-solving skills such as identifying and solving mechanical issues to minimize downtime and ensure smooth production.

Line Operator Responsibilities

Safety:

• Work safely while adhering to established safety procedures and cardinal safety rules
• Maintain excellent housekeeping standards through 6S practices and visual management expectations
• Adhere to Lock Out Tag Out and machine guarding policies and procedures
• Be present during scheduled work hours and attend all required meetings

Quality:

• Comply with Quality Management Systems by following established procedures, performing quality checks and ensuring adherence to quality standards
• Conduct first piece approvals in accordance with QMS procedures
• Follow established standard operating procedures to set up, monitor, and adjust production line parameters to achieve product quality and customer requirements

Production Operations:

• Operate assigned production lines safely and efficiently while meeting productivity, quality, and scrap targets 
• Review and interpret production schedules, work orders, blueprints, specifications, and standard operating procedures 
• Monitor and document production output, downtime, scrap, resin usage, and quality data 
• Prepare, stage, and organize materials, equipment, and tooling required for production 
• Follow established procedures for Plascontrol, gravimetric systems, and other process control equipment 
• Accurately input data related to resin, production, and scrap into computer system
• Expedite job changes, assist with modifications on other lines, and adjust blends on extruders to facilitate efficient job transitions
• Perform operator-level preventative maintenance and routine equipment inspections
• Maintain printers, vacuum systems, process blades, and associated production equipment 
• Keep accurate and organized records and documentation related to production processes, including consistent updates to hour-by-hour boards
• Handle print plates, repair knots in rolls, address print ink drips, and manage blowholes
• Identify, analyze, and resolve process and equipment issues to minimize downtime
• Troubleshoot quality concerns, material flow issues, vacuum system problems, print defects, edge guide issues, threading concerns, and other production-related problems 
• Escalate unresolved issues appropriately while assisting with corrective actions

Training, Teamwork, and Communication:

• Provide break relief for other associates and assist other lines, as needed
• Communicate effectively with operators, maintenance personnel, supervisors, and quality associates during the shift and at shift change
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts and support departmental goals
• Coordinate with resin handlers, material handlers, maintenance, and supervision to support production requirements
• Progress through established operator qualification standards and maintain required certifications 
• Develop proficiency operating multiple production lines and processes within the department 
• Attend all required operator training classes and qualification sessions
• Assist in training Operator Trainees and newly qualified operators when authorized 
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management