Operator Inspector 1 (2nd Shift)

Job Description

Job Description

Title

Operator Inspector 1

Department

Plastics

Reports to

Plastics Manager

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 2:00 PM-10:30 PM. New hires will complete approximately 4-6 weeks of training on 1st Shift before transitioning to 2nd Shift. Includes a 5% shift differential.

SEE YOUR CAREER THROUGH A NEW LENS WITH RPO!

RPO is a global leader in precision optics, optical components, and optical assemblies. We specialize in a full spectrum of products & services including – Design and Engineering, Systems Integration, Lens Assembly, Visible and Infrared Components, Glass and Plastic Molded Aspheres, and Thin Film Coating. RPO offers exciting career paths and work on market-leading programs. See below one of many career opportunities to join the RPO team!

Position Overview:

The Operator Inspector is responsible for inspecting, handling, and packaging precision molded optical components within our Advanced Plastics department. This role plays a critical part in ensuring product quality by performing in-process visual inspections, identifying cosmetic defects, and properly handling components throughout the manufacturing process. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, quality-focused, and comfortable working in a production environment where consistency, accuracy, and careful handling of delicate optical components are essential. This position works closely with production personnel to support output requirements while ensuring products meet established quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform in-process visual inspection of molded optical components to identify cosmetic defects and ensure compliance with quality standards.
• Inspect components for scratches, contamination, molding defects, and other nonconformities.
• Carefully remove, handle, and package molded components to prevent damage during production and transport.
• Degate molded plastic components in accordance with established work instructions and quality requirements.
• Monitor machine output and maintain a consistent workflow to support production schedules.
• Accurately place finished components into trays, containers, or designated WIP storage locations.
• Record production, labor, and inspection data within the ERP system and other required documentation.
• Communicate quality concerns, process issues, or equipment abnormalities to supervisors and appropriate personnel.
• Follow established inspection procedures, work instructions, and quality standards.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and department objectives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Previous manufacturing, production, assembly, inspection, or machine operation experience highly preferred.
• Experience performing visual inspections or working with quality standards in a manufacturing environment is highly desirable.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify cosmetic defects and nonconforming product.
• Ability to follow written work instructions, procedures, and specifications.
• Comfortable handling small, delicate components while maintaining quality requirements.
• Basic computer skills and ability to accurately enter production data into manufacturing systems.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.
• Strong communication skills and willingness to escalate quality concerns when identified.

Core Competencies:

• Results-Oriented: Motivated, hard-working and ready to level-up.
• Curious: You never stop learning and have an insatiable desire to gain new skills and knowledge.
• Process Oriented: Well organized, demonstrating attention to detail.
• Analytical: Possess a “If there’s a problem, I’ll find a solution” attitude.
• Accountable: Demanding the highest quality from yourself and team members.
• Detail-Oriented: Have excellent time management and organizational skills.
• A Team Player: Reliable, collaborative, flexible with a positive ‘get things done’ attitude.

Additional Requirements:

Pursuant to ITAR, EAR, and other export compliance laws and regulations, applicants for this position must be U.S. Persons as defined by U.S. law, i.e., U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents ("Green Card" holders), persons granted refugee status or asylum status in the United States, or temporary residents granted amnesty.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package linked to your experience and performance.
• 401(k) with company match and Tuition Reimbursement opportunities.
• Health, dental, vision, HSA, & life insurance.
• Paid time off including vacation, sick time, and 11 paid company holidays

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, use hands & fingers, handle or feel, and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, talk and hear.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. May involve prolonged periods of magnified inspection (eye strain)
• Requires good hand-eye coordination, arm, hand, and finger dexterity, including ability to grasp.
• The job may involve prolong periods of standing.
• Highly repetitive work, usually in a fixed body position for a sustained period of time.
• The employee is frequently required to use the computer.
• May involve the use of oils and solvents.
• Subject to some soilage and irritation from cleaning solutions. (Lab Coats provided)
• Generally works in a clean environment and works to maintain the environment as such.
• Safety Glasses and hearing protection are required
• May require area specific safety training
• This position works in a manufacturing environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
• The employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes or airborne paper particles.
• May work at different workstations as production needs require, or shifts from one station to another, during the production process.

Disclaimer:

This job description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Rochester Precision Optics is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our business and our people.

EOE/AA/Race/Gender/Disability/Veteran

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States, and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.