Machine Operator - Extrusion (Plastics)

For over 20 years, West Michigan Compounding (WMC) has been a trusted leader in the plastics industry. We take pride in our steady growth, commitment to innovation, and dedication to delivering high-quality products. As we continue to expand and diversify our product offerings, we are looking for motivated individuals to join our team and grow with us. 

At WMC, we believe our people are our greatest strength. We foster a collaborative, team-oriented work environment where employees support one another, share ideas, and work together to achieve common goals. Whether you are just starting your career or looking to take the next step, you’ll find opportunities here to learn, develop new skills, and build a long-term career.

We are seeking candidates who are eager to learn, take initiative, and grow within our organization. WMC is proud to promote from within when possible and offers proven advancement opportunities as the company continues to grow.

In addition to a positive work culture and growth opportunities, WMC offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package, available after 60 days of full-time employment.

If you are looking for a stable, growing company where your contributions are valued and your career can move forward, we invite you to apply and become part of the WMC team.

Competitive Pay  Generous PTOTeam incentives of up to $200 per weekIndividual financial incentives401kEmployee Appreciation Activities: Food Trucks, Holiday Party, Summer Picnic, Potlucks

This is a second shift position, scheduled from 2:45pm - 11:15pm, Monday through Friday.

Summary

Our Extrusion Operator sets up, operates, and tends machines that extrude and form continuous filaments from synthetic materials, such as liquid polymer, rayon, and fiberglass. Transfers material to and from the department.

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Essential Functions

Adheres to WMC’s quality management system.Follows the WMC production process sheet for order of production.Loads materials into extruder, and adjust feed mechanisms to set feed rates. Keeps machines full of material at all times.Lifts 55lb bags of material to fill hoppers.Tears down and disposes of empty or damaged boxes.Starts metering pumps and observing the operation of machines and equipment to ensure the continuous flow of filaments extruded through the die and to detect processing defects. Moves controls to activate and adjust the extruder.Presses buttons to stop machines when processes are complete or when malfunctions are detected. Observes machine operations, control boards, and gauges to detect malfunctions such as clogged pelletizer and pipes. Records details of machine malfunctions. Notifies other workers of defects and directs them to adjust the extruder. Removes excess, entangled, or completed filaments from machines, using hand tools. Removes polymer deposits from equipment, using silicone spray, brass chisels, and bronze-wool pads. Observes flow of finish across finish rollers, and turn valves to adjust flow to specifications.Performs quality checks on all skids to be used for the finished product. Assembles new boxes on top of skids and places at the end of the production line. Operates forklift to move pallets throughout the production floor.Verifies box weight and adds additional material or removes material to receive accurate weight.Performs test of Ash, Gardner, Moisture, Durometer, Specific Gravity, Melt Flow, and Notched Izod when necessary and records results as needed.Operates an injection mold machine to shoot test specimens.Completes hourly read sheets and records test results.Cleans and maintains extruder. Maintains clean work area. Puts away product when complete. Sweeps excess product off the work floor.Understand and follow all WMC Health & Safety Practices. Report all injuries and unsafe work conditions. Attend mandatory safety training and request additional training as needed.  

Second shift position scheduled from 2:45pm - 11:15pm, Monday through Friday. 

Compensation details: 17 Hourly Wage