Machine Operator- 1st Shift

JOB SUMMARY: 23603

The Machine Operator is essential to the manufacturing of high-quality fan merchandise.  Under general supervision, the Machine Operator will work individually or as part of a team that will finish or produce a large volume of product.  The work of other production athletes on the line/work center is dependent upon this team member as the primary Machine Operator.  May include manual set up including prepping and loading, die changes, material changes, ink technician, screen print prep, screen printing, or other finishing components and other associated tasks. May be required to adjust settings/speed or otherwise complete basic troubleshooting during the run.  Generally, a physically demanding role that requires keeping pace with a machine, equipment or line.  Will be responsible for finishing and/or packaging items, following written instructions per individual order.  The successful athlete must be able to accurately count correct quantities, inspect and report quality issues and consistently follow customer specification within order instructions.  Machine Operator Athletes will be assigned in varying screen print or other machine operation work centers and it is essential that they are able to read their schedule and report to the correct work center on time for each scheduled shift. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Reads and follows specific instructions given on shop packets.
• Utilizes FMS to accurately document work processes such as the check out and in of work orders and/or materials.
• Completes all screen reclaim, prep, filming, and staging tasks – properly inspecting at each stage to ensure screens are clean, dry, free from contamination, rips and holes.
• Follows process to consistently run screens through Coating, Jig/Guide, Exposure and other Prep Work Centers.
• Monitors, mixes and organizes inks, pigments, bases, etc. and supply inventories, requiring a high degree of color perception.
• Maintain computerized color formulas and manual color formula systems and maintain records of ink color changes for all licensed products. Maintains Pantone Matching System (PMS) color standards including book order and database listing colors for teams, leagues and other licensees. 
• Develop color formulas to create standard and non-standard color matches.
• Set up and operate all screen print related equipment and loads screens into machinery, after inspecting and reviewing screens and film positives to determine the proper machine alignment and adjustments.
• Performs equipment set up such as adjusting settings, cleaning /inspection, and disassembly/reassembly of equipment.
• Catches and inspects printed materials for accuracy and material flaws. 
• Tears down the press in preparation of the next color/order including cleaning squeegees, screens and flood bars. 
• Performs daily and weekly preventative maintenance, curing oven and other equipment, as required.
• Monitors and maintains all chemical labeling information including stocking blank labels to assist departments with accurate labeling as needed.
• Monitors and coordinates chemical waste including label accuracy, storage and disposal with Purchasing.
• Thoroughly cleans and inspects sinks and equipment including wash tanks, power washers, vacuum nozzles, etc.
• Assembles and sharpens all types of squeegee and adjust dryer belt speed for proper curing of the ink
• Performs general housekeeping and department six sigma activities.
• Adheres to all Department and Company Standards, Operating Procedures and Safety Requirements.
• Treats others with respect and conducts themselves in a positive and inclusive manner daily. 
• Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATIONAL & Experience REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• 1 or more years of screen-printing equipment and processes highly preferred or machine operator experience

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Close attention to detail required
• Understand written instruction
• Mechanical knowledge sufficient to make equipment adjustments
• Intermediate computer aptitude required, including database management
• Good hand-eye coordination
• Ability to complete repetitive tasks
• Ability to read shop packets and follow instruction
• Advanced math skills needed to convert percentages, pounds, grams, ounces, etc.
• Ability to make accurate measurements and complete mathematical computations
• Ability to inspect materials and finished products for defects
• Ability to learn and apply accurate PMS Color matching knowledge and distinguish between similar shades of color
• Ability to use positives to determine the correct sequence of colors considering trap, color, halftones, metallic, etc. 
• Maintain current certifications:
  • Respirator 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to visually detect a full spectrum of colors
• Ability to lift 25 lbs. 
• Ability to participate in a team lift of 50 lbs.
• Able to stand for entire shift
• Able to turn or bend
• Able to grip/grasp continuously 
• Able to push a cart

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Indoors, temperature-controlled environment
• May work in a cold environment
• May work in a warm/humid environment 
• May work in a dusty environment 
• May work in a wet environment
• May work in a high noise environment
• May work around machinery with moving parts
• Exposure to chemicals and cleaning agents
• Required to know & don PPE applicable to work-center guidelines which may include:
  • Eye protection/face shield 
  • Hearing protection
  • Chemical resistant gloves & arm guards & apron
  • Cut resistant gloves & arm guards
  • Heat resistant gloves
  • Shin/foot cut protection 
  • Plastic disposable apron
  • Respirator
  • Long pants/blue jeans
  • Safety toe shoes 

The compensation rate is $17.60/hour which represents base pay only and does not include short-term or long-term incentive compensation.