Rigid Extruder Operator- Nights

Printpack Rigid is seeking a candidate to fill a Rigid Extruder Operator position in our Newport News, VA facility on night shift. The Extruder Operator is a skilled manufacturing professional responsible for operating and managing extrusion equipment and processes to ensure efficient production, quality standards, and timely delivery of customer orders. This is a technical role to maintain optimal production conditions while promoting safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives.


An additional $2.50/hr. premium between the hours of 7pm-7am. Any hours worked outside of 7pm-7am will not receive the premium.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Set up and/or operate equipment (Extruder, vacuum pumps, material blenders, heated equipment, mobile pallet jacks, hoists, micrometers, microscopes, vision systems, edge trim or calibrated scales, etc.).

• Ability to operate a pelletizer and the sheet grinder

• Audit process parameters, documenting and ensuring correct inputs for product quality, per customer specifications.

• Perform basic operator Preventative Maintenance (PM) to avoid shutdowns.

• Collaborate with plant leadership to drive results in the key metrics of safety, waste, productivity and quality

• Perform quality tests and checks to ensure product meets specification

• Perform product changeovers per product specifications

• Recognize and respond to material handling issues (blender, scales, dryers, etc.)

• Identify machine issues and quickly troubleshoot to resolve malfunctions to maintain production schedules.

• Maintain compliance with food safety and GMP

• Read and follow production schematics to produce products in line with design and manufacturing standards.

• Foster an environment focused on safety, including but not limited to: performing machine safety audits, behavior-based safety observations, identifying near misses and opportunities for improvement, driving associate engagement on shift, performing lock out tag out

POSITION SCOPE:

Direction Received: Usually, direction comes from the Shift Supervisor.

Responsibilities for Direction of Others : N/A

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

This position reports to the Shift Supervisor

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Experience:

• High School diploma or equivalent preferred

• Stable work history

• Previous manufacturing experience preferred

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency including email

• Accurately read and use measuring tools

• Self-directed and task-oriented with the ability to multitask

• Problem-solving capabilities

• Mechanical aptitude

• Good organizational skills

• Math and measurement skills

• Strong attention to detail

• Ability to follow detailed instructions

• Good communication skills

• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and lift materials as required

Additional Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years of age

• Must pass pre-employment assessments

• Drug screening required

• Background check required

K nowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Basic understanding of extrusion processes and equipment

• Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures

• Understanding of quality control standards

• Knowledge of PRISM or similar manufacturing software systems

• Basic mathematical concepts and measurements

• Accurately read and use measuring tools

• Equipment Operation, basic maintenance and cleaning

• Strong time management capabilities

• Proficient Decision making

• Attention to detail

• Ability to follow read and understand product specifications

• Effective communication skills

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & TRAVEL:

Physical Demands: The associate will be exposed to the manufacturing environment where hazards and requirements may include but are not limited to:

• Capability to lift and move up to 65 pounds

• Ability to climb, kneel, bend, and squat

• Proficiency in grasping, pushing, pulling, and fine motor skills

• Ability to climb ladders safely

• Capacity to stand and walk for extended periods

• Ability to wear required PPE (hearing protection, steel-toe shoes, safety glasses)

• Forklift certification or ability to obtain forklift and motorized pallet jack certification

Travel Requirements: Travel is not required in this position.

WORK CONDITIONS:

Work Conditions: The majority of tasks will be performed in a manufacturing setting with potential exposure to:

• Noise levels above 85 dB

• Operation of complex machinery

• Solvents, fumes and inks within the plant

• Variable Temperatures

• Must be able to work flexible shifts

• May require nights, weekends, and holidays.

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Printpack is proudly an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment. Embracing diversity enhances our work culture and is vital to our success. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/parental status, genetic information, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, marital status, military or veteran status or affiliation, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.

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Know Your Rights - Conozca sus Derechos - Your Rights Under USERRA (dol.gov) - FMLA - FMLA (Spanish) - Polygraph Protection - Right to Work - Right to Work (Spanish)

Printpack is committed to helping individuals with disabilities participate in the workforce and ensure equal opportunity to compete for jobs. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist you with your application for employment or job search, please get in touch with us by sending an email to View email address on click.appcast.io. Please include in your email a brief description of the accommodation you are requesting and the position for which you are interested in applying.