XPS Machine Operator

SUMMARY:

The XPS Machine Operator is responsible for safely operating, monitoring, and maintaining the extrusion line used to manufacture extruded polystyrene (XPS) products. This role ensures the continuous and efficient production of high-quality materials by setting machine parameters, performing routing inspections, conducting quality checks, and responding to equipment issues. The operator works closely with production, quality, and maintenance teams to meet daily output goals while following strict safety, environmental, and housekeeping standards.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Extrusion Line Operation:
  1. Set up, start, operate, and shut down XPS extrusion equipment according to established procedures.
  2. Adjust temperature, pressure, screw speed, die settings, haul-off, and downstream equipment to maintain product specifications.
  3. Load raw materials and additives into the extrusion system.
  4. Monitor production parameters and machine indicators to ensure stable operation.
• Quality Control:
  1. Perform regular measurements of thickness, width, density, and surface quality.
  2. Record data accurately and communicate deviations promptly.
  3. Make necessary machine adjustments to maintain consistent quality.
  4. Identify and remove defective product.
• Maintenance & Troubleshooting:
  1. Perform basic troubleshooting during production.
  2. Clean dies, filters, screens, and machine components.
  3. Assist maintenance technicians with minor repairs.
  4. Report equipment issues immediately to minimize downtime.
• Production & Documentation:
  1. Meet daily production targets and report issues.
  2. Complete production logs and quality records.
  3. Communicate shift changes and equipment status with incoming teams.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This position does not have any direct reports.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• 1-3 years of production or machine-operation experience.
• Other skills required:
  • Understanding of temperature control, melt flow, and die adjustments.
  • Ability to use calipers and read a tape measure.
  • Strong understanding of both imperial and metric measurements with the ability to convert between both.
  • Excellent problem-solving abilities.
  • Aptitude for math and general mechanical ability.
  • Ability to work and communicate well with others.
  • Attention to detail; must be able to follow instructions.
  • Willingness to work rotating shifts, overtime, or weekends.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Mechanical or technical training.
• Plastic extrusion or foam manufacturing experience.
• Experience operating plastic extrusion machinery.
• Basic computer skills.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the duties and responsibilities.

This position will be located in a production shop floor environment and is required to work a rotational 12-hour shift schedule or other designated shift hours. Overtime may also be required based on business conditions. While performing the duties of this job, the noise level in the work environment is moderate with occasional loud noise. Frequently required to talk, hear, walk, sit, and stand. Occasionally required to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel or crawl. Continually works near moving mechanical parts and may occasionally be exposed to fumes, airborne particles or toxic chemicals. Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

HEALTH & SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:

• Perform job functions in a safe manner.
• Wear all Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required by Company policy for the job being performed.
• Know and follow established job-specific and facility wide safety and health procedures and rules.
• Actively participate in safety and health training and demonstrate competency based on training received.
• Brings safety and health issues, unsafe acts, and safety suggestions to management’s attention or correct those you can upon observation.
• Comply with environmental and waste-handling requirements.

OTHER DUTIES:

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. They may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

BENEFITS:

• Multiple benefit plans to choose from based on you and/or your family’s needs, beginning the 1st of the month following date of hire.
• 401(k) eligibility after 90 days.
• Vacation and Holiday pay
• Training opportunities
• And much more!

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY:

TeMa North America is an Equal Opportunity Employer.