Machine Operator The Machine Operator plays a key role in safely operating and maintaining molding machinery to produce and audit PET plastic containers. This position supports downstream processes, performs process set-up, preventative maintenance, and changeovers, and ensures production goals are met through accurate machine operation and documentation. The role requires strict adherence to safety procedures, active participation in quality inspections, and support in developing work instructions and training for future operators.
Responsibilities:
Operate and maintain molding machinery to support the production of PET plastic containers.
Perform process set-up, changeovers, and preventative maintenance on assigned equipment.
Support downstream processes to ensure smooth and continuous production flow.
Follow all established safety rules, guidelines, and procedures at all times.
Identify, understand, and communicate hazards and safety issues to co-workers and supervisors.
Use all required personal protective equipment correctly and consistently.
Maintain standard production objectives through proper machine operation and monitoring.
Accurately record production data and maintain required documentation.
Apply safe and proper start-up and shut-down procedures for each machine.
Help develop and refine work instructions and training programs for next-generation operators.
Operate one-step machinery including laser dating systems and leak detection systems using written work instructions, visual management tools, and computer interfaces.
Conduct quality inspections using specific written and visual guidelines to ensure product meets standards.
Operate pallet jacks and forklifts to move finished product from machines to staging areas.
Handle materials, including loading and unloading, to support production and warehouse activities.
Assist with general production, assembly, packaging, and packing tasks as needed.
Essential Skills:- Experience in production or general production environments.
- Hands-on machine operation and machine operating experience.
- Ability to perform basic mechanical tasks and demonstrate mechanical aptitude.
- Experience with plastic injection or similar manufacturing processes.
- Ability to operate pallet jacks safely and efficiently.
- Capability to conduct quality checks using written and visual guidelines.
- Comfort working in a louder, fast-paced production setting.
- Ability to follow detailed work instructions and safety procedures.
- Basic material handling experience, including loading and unloading.
- Willingness and ability to work the night shift (11:00 PM7:00 AM).Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Forklift operation experience, including warehouse forklift use, is a plus.
- Experience using RF scanners for material handling or inventory is beneficial.
- Background in packaging, assembly, and general labor tasks is helpful.
- Ability to move finished product from machines to staging areas using pallet jacks or forklifts.
- Comfort working with hand tools and basic production equipment.
- Experience loading and unloading trucks in a warehouse or production environment. Willingness to participate in and support training programs for new operators.
Why Work Here?
Employees benefit from a supportive environment that recognizes and rewards positive behavior through a structured recognition points program. A strong 401(k) plan helps support long-term financial well-being, while an annual fitness reimbursement encourages a healthy and active lifestyle, whether through gym memberships, hiking, or other activities. The organization promotes stability with a standard 40-hour work week and offers structured training to help employees grow into their roles and advance their skills. Work Environment This role is based in a mid-sized production facility that has recently transitioned to a standard 40-hour work week. The position is primarily on the night shift from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM, with initial training on first shift for approximately 24 weeks. The facility follows strict food and safety standards, requiring hard hats, steel-toe footwear, safety glasses, hair nets, and ear plugs. The environment is louder, typical of a busy production setting, and involves working around molding machinery, laser dating systems, leak detection systems, and material handling equipment such as pallet jacks and forklifts.
Job Type & Location: This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Denver, CO.
Pay and Benefits:
The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $24.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. 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)