Machine Operator- Skilled

The Lamination Production Operator L3 is responsible for operating and monitoring lamination equipment to produce high-quality laminated materials. This role includes machine setup, process control, quality inspection, and routine maintenance. The operator ensures production runs are completed safely, efficiently, and to specification. At this level, the operator is mainly responsible for setting up and troubleshooting the lamination machine in an efficient and timely manner to ensure assigned jobs are started in a timely manner with product output that meets the quality standards. Operator L3 must be able to perform any of the Operator L1 and L2 job duties. Operator L3 provides guidance to machine team as to what is needed to complete the assigned job.

Responsibilities

Machine Operation

• Directs and assist the production operation team of their line in the setup, operations, and monitoring lamination machines per job specifications.
• Responsible for setting up the machine in an efficient and timely manner to ensure assigned jobs are started in a timely manner with product output that meets the quality standards.
• Load and align rolls of film, foil, paper, or fabric into laminating equipment.
• Start, stop, and troubleshoot equipment as needed.
• Ensures proper job tracking and logging in ERP.
• Aids in training other operators in their jobs and/or advanced skills needed to advance in job qualifications levels.
• Work as part of a team to achieve daily goals.

Quality Assurance

• Perform in-process inspections for defects (e.g., wrinkles, bubbles, poor adhesion).
• Measure material thickness, alignment, and bond strength using gauges and tools.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality control guidelines.
• Record production data and inspection results.

Material Handling

• Prepare raw materials and it is being fed efficiently to the machine to ensure the team meets production quota expectations.
• Package, label, and stage finished goods for the next process or shipment.
• Minimize scrap and handle waste materials properly.
• Ensure proper amount of raw material is readily available to initiate and continue with current daily job.
• Operate the forklift, if certified, to ensure material is readily available to all areas.

Safety & Maintenance

• Follow all safety protocols, including lockout/tagout and PPE use.
• Keep work area clean and organized (5S standards).
• Assist with basic maintenance and report equipment issues promptly.
• Participate in safety training and continuous improvement programs.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

Education, Skills & Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 1–2 years of machine operation experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Experience with lamination or converting equipment.
• Must have been able to complete and pass NASL training with L3 requirements.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to use basic hand tools.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to read and follow written instructions, work orders, and production schedules.
• Ability to communicate with the operating team of the specific line they are working on.
• Ability to share knowledge with others to accomplish training and provide direction to the team.
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Forklift certification (preferred or company-provided).
• Ability to uphold company Core Values of Integrity, Solutions, Service and Quality as part of the NASL Team.

Work Environment

• Industrial manufacturing floor with moderate to high noise and heat levels
• May require working in shifts, overtime, or weekends as production demands

Physical Demands

• Standing Frequently for extended periods
• Walking Frequently
• Sitting Rarely
• Handling/Gripping Frequently, repetitive
• Reaching Outward Frequently, repetitive
• Reaching above Shoulder Rarely
• Climbing Rarely
• Crawling Rarely
• Squatting or Kneeling Occasionally
• Bending Frequently, repetitive
• Lifting/Carrying Must be able to lift and move to 50 lbs. using safe lifting techniques
• Pushing/Pulling: Frequently, repetitive
• PPE Requirement: Always

Work Hours

Position is full-time, average of 30 - 40 hours per week. Occasional overtime may be required. This position may be scheduled to work during first or second shift