2nd shift Lead Press Operator

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Operate and oversee vinyl record pressing machines and related manufacturing equipment.
• Set up presses for production runs, including mold changes, temperature settings, and material preparation.
• Monitor production output to ensure quality, consistency, and adherence to specifications.
• Inspect finished records for defects such as warping, surface noise, scratches, non-fill, and labeling issues.
• Troubleshoot machine, mechanical, and production problems and implement corrective actions.
• Coordinate production activities to meet daily, weekly, and monthly production goals.
• Train and mentor new operators on equipment operation, quality standards, and safety procedures.
• Maintain accurate production records, quality documentation, and downtime reports.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance and assist maintenance personnel with repairs as needed.
• Ensure compliance with company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and good manufacturing practices.
• Monitor inventory levels of materials, stampers, labels, and related production supplies.
• Communicate production status, equipment issues, and quality concerns to supervisors and management.
• Assist in continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality.
• Lead shift-start meetings and provide guidance to operators and support staff.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough understanding of vinyl pressing processes and quality requirements.
• Ability to identify production defects and make process adjustments.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work independently and lead a team effectively.

Physical Requirements

• Regular standing and walking throughout the shift.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, reaching, pushing, and pulling.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with heat, noise, and moving machinery.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Work Environment

• Manufacturing and production facility.
• May require overtime, weekends, and flexible scheduling based on production demands.
• Exposure to industrial machinery, heated equipment, and production materials.

Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of 3 years of manufacturing experience.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience operating industrial production machinery.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read and follow production schedules, work instructions, and quality specifications.
• Basic computer skills for reporting and production tracking.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.

Preferred

• Experience in vinyl record manufacturing or audio media production.
• Previous lead, supervisor, or team leader experience.
• Knowledge of hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical systems.
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification.

Position Summary

The Lead Vinyl Record Pressing Machine Operator is responsible for overseeing the daily operation of vinyl record pressing equipment while ensuring product quality, production efficiency, and employee safety. This position serves as the primary machine expert on the production floor, providing leadership, training, and technical support to Press Operators. The Lead Operator monitors production schedules, performs equipment setup and troubleshooting, and ensures all records meet customer and company quality standards.