Sr. Machine Operator

The Senior Machine Operator is an experienced production professional responsible for advanced operation, setup, optimization, and troubleshooting of manufacturing equipment producing plastic film and bag products. In addition to all core Machine Operator duties, this role serves as a technical resource and informal leader on the production floor by supporting training, problem-solving, and process consistency. Senior Machine Operators are expected to operate with a higher degree of independence, urgency, and ownership, proactively identifying equipment, quality, and safety opportunities that improve yields, reduce scrap, and maintain consistent production performance. This position supports compliance with all safety, GMP, and HACCP standards while reinforcing best practices across shifts. ACCOUNTABILITIES Advanced Equipment Operation – Set up, operate, adjust, and optimize extrusion, air, ring, printing, and downstream equipment to meet production and quality targets. Safety Leadership – Actively model and reinforce safety behaviors; perform daily inspections and correct unsafe conditions. Support investigations and corrective actions related to safety incident s and near-misses. Quality Oversight - Perform and validate quality checks, troubleshoot repeat defects, and mentor operators on specification compliance. Reduce scrap through proactive equipment adjustments and standardized setups. Production Efficiency – Lead efficient changeovers and equipment startups. Identify and implement improvement opportunities to reduce downtime and improve yields. Advanced Troubleshooting and Maintenance Support – Diagnose complex equipment issues and assist maintenance with root cause identification. Perform screen changes, die cleaning, printer rebuilds, and other advanced tasks independently when trained. Training and Mentorship – Train and support new and developing Machine Operators and Packers. Collaboration and Communication – Communicate effectively across shifts and departments, including maintenance, QA, and supervision. Housekeeping and Line Shutdown – Ensure proper shutdown procedures and uphold high standards of housekeeping. QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS High School diploma or GED required. Minimum of 2-3 years of Machine Operator experience in extrusion or similar manufacturing Demonstrated ability to independently run and troubleshoot production equipment KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES/BEHAVIORS Knowledge: Advanced understanding of plastic film and bag manufacturing processes; strong knowledge of extruders, air rings, printers, dies, and changeover procedures; thorough understanding of safety, GMP, and HACCP requirements Skills: Advanced mechanical troubleshooting and problem-solving; proficient with hand tools, measuring instruments, and production systems; ability to read and interpret work orders, specs, and SOPs; forklift operation (licensed or able to become licensed) Abilities: Lift up to 50 lbs. unassisted; push/pull up to 100 lbs.; perform repetitive physical motions including bending, climbing, kneeling, and twisting; work safely around moving machinery and electricity to Train, coach, and influence peers positively Behaviors: Safety-first mindset; Quality- and results-driven; calm under pressure; adaptable to changing priorities o Team-oriented with leadership presence OTHER INFORMATION Physical Demands: Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. unassisted and push or pull up to 100 lbs. Frequent physical activities include reaching, climbing, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, bending, and twisting for up to 66% of the work shift. Require working around moving machinery and electricity, demanding high safety awareness and proper use of PPE.

Work is performed in a manufacturing setting with loud noise levels and exposure to moving equipment. Employees must wear hearing, eye, and toe protection, and additional PPE as required. Environment involves changing priorities, time