Production Operator

Machine Operator
Pay Rate - $20/hr.+

Job Description
This role focuses on operating production machinery and mixers to manufacture high-quality printing ink in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You will run batches of ink, operate specialized mill and mixing equipment, perform packaging and canning activities, and support quality control and maintenance processes across multiple shifts. All new hires receive training on first shift before moving to their assigned schedule.
Responsibilities

• Operate production machines and mixers to manufacture high-quality printing ink according to established procedures and safety standards.
• Run batches of ink at proper mill settings to achieve required quality and consistency.
• Weigh up batches by following both automatic and manual steps and adhering to the correct process order of ingredient addition.
• Mix batches by safely discharging pigment and operating mixers in line with all mixer standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Operate Hockmeyer mills and maintain optimum overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) standards.
• Package finished product into various containers, perform canning activities, and apply accurate labels.
• Create and maintain a database of all existing formulas, including processing times and relevant production data.
• Clean and maintain machines to Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) standards and apply TPM knowledge to daily activities.
• Complete scheduled maintenance tasks and basic troubleshooting procedures on production and mixing equipment.
• Act as a quality control liaison by providing ink samples, making ink adjustments, and accurately recording data.
• Operate press-out units, pump filter equipment, and forklifts as needed to support production and material movement.
• Assist with repacks and other general production tasks in the warehouse and manufacturing areas.
• Perform heavy lifting and carry large bags up and down stairs when working in mixer roles, recognizing that these positions can be physically demanding and occasionally messy.
• Perform repetitive motion tasks such as scraping down mixer and mill equipment, especially in mixer/mill operator roles.
• Work in packer positions within the warehouse area to support packaging and shipment preparation.
• Follow all safety, housekeeping, and operational guidelines to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Essential Skills

• At least 6 months of production experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• At least 3 months of machine operating experience.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and ability to work with industrial machinery.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding tasks, including carrying heavy bags up and down stairs.
• Comfort with repetitive motion tasks such as scraping down equipment during mixing and milling operations.
• Willingness to learn new processes, equipment, and TPM activities.
• Ability to follow detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) and process orders of addition for batch mixing.
• Basic ability to perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on production equipment.
• Capability to work effectively in a manufacturing facility that produces ink, including handling messy materials when required.
• Availability to train on first shift before transitioning to assigned shift (1st, 2nd, or 3rd).

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Forklift experience is preferred; training can be provided for the right candidate.
• Background in mixing, mill operation, or pump filter industry is preferred.
• Experience with general production, machine operation, and general labor tasks.
• Mechanically inclined with prior exposure to batch mixing or similar processes.
• Ability to operate press-out units, pump filter equipment, and other production support machinery.
• Comfort working as a packer in warehouse areas, supporting packaging and logistics.
• Interest in learning and applying Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) principles.

Why Work Here?
The organization offers a stable, supportive culture with very little turnover, creating an environment where people tend to stay and grow their careers. Team members benefit from strong training, opportunities to learn new equipment and processes, and a collaborative atmosphere focused on safety and quality. Once converted to permanent status, employees receive shift differentials for working second or third shift, reflecting the value placed on flexibility and commitment.
Work Environment
The role is based in a manufacturing facility that produces printing ink, with work performed in both production and warehouse areas. The environment includes operating mixers, mills, press-out units, pump filter equipment, and forklifts, as well as handling heavy bags and performing repetitive tasks such as scraping down machines. Employees train on first shift and may work 1st shift (7:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.), 2nd shift (3:00 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.), or 3rd shift (11:00 p.m. - 7:30 a.m., Sunday night through Friday morning). Once converted to permanent status, employees receive a shift differential of $1.00 per hour for second shift and $1.50 per hour for third shift. The facility provides uniforms so personal clothing is protected from ink, and employees have access to a locker room and standard accommodations. The work can be physically demanding and occasionally messy, particularly in mixer roles, and requires adherence to safety, housekeeping, and operational standards in a busy production setting.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Edwardsville, KS.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $22.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Edwardsville,KS.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 3, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.


Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.


The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.