production Technician (End Plant)

Full job description {#full-job-description tabindex="-1"} POSITION SUMMARY: Our Waco, TX facility manufactures aluminum ends/lids for beverage cans commonly used for soft drinks, beers, energy drinks, teas and non-carbonated beverages. Using state of the art end-making technology, this high-speed environment provides rewarding manufacturing opportunities. We are seeking versatile and high-energy Production Technicians. This cross-functional role is responsible for the operation, basic maintenance, and quality control of the three primary manufacturing stages: Shell Press (metal forming), Compound Liner (sealing application), and Conversion Press (tab application and final shaping). Production Operators are expected to be multi-skilled, rotating through different areas of the plant to ensure maximum operational flexibility and consistent product quality. ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS: #### MACHINE OPERATION AND PROCESS CONTROL - #### Set up, adjust, and operate high-speed shell presses (e.g., Minster or equivalent) to form aluminum shells from raw coil feeds and ensure continuous material flow according to established specifications. - #### Oversee the application of sealing compounds to the shells; monitor pump pressures, nozzle alignment, and compound temperatures. - #### Manage the final conversion process where tabs are formed and attached to shells; monitor high-speed transfer systems and final product bagging/palletizing. - #### Monitor machines performance, including speed, alignment, and lubrication, to ensure optimal efficiency and quality. #### QUALITY CONTROL AND INSPECTION - #### Perform regular hourly quality inspections including visual checks for defects (scratches, dents, misalignments) and dimensional verifications using precision gauges. - #### Utilize specialized testing equipment to check compound weights, score residual depths, and burst strengths to ensure compliance with customer specifications. - #### Maintain accurate production logs and quality records; immediately report any out-of-specification trends to the Supervisor or Quality team. #### BASIC MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING - #### Safely clear machine jams and resets using established LOTO (Lock Out/Tag Out) procedures to minimize downtime. - #### Assist the Tool Room and Maintenance teams during product changeovers, including cleaning machinery and prepping components. - #### Perform basic preventative maintenance tasks, such as clearing aluminum scrap (shards), replenishing lubricants, and maintaining 5S cleanliness standards. #### MATERIAL HANDLING AND SAFETY - #### Ensure machines are stocked with required materials (coils, compound, tabs, bags, and pallets). - #### Safely operate pallet jacks and, if certified, forklifts to move finished goods and raw materials. - #### Adhere to all safety protocols; maintain a "zero-accident" mindset and report any near-misses or hazardous conditions immediately. #### GENERAL DUTIES - #### Accurately record production data, quality metrics, and maintenance activities on shift documentation and digital systems. - #### Ability to read and understand technical manuals, blueprints, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). ** EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE:** #### REQUIRED - High school diploma or GED equivalent. - Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or warehouse environment. - Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort working around large, high-speed automated machinery. - Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods (up to 12 hours). - Willingness to work any shift in a 24/7/365 continuous manufacturing environment. #### PREFERRED - #### Prior experience in metal forming, packaging, or high-volume consumer goods (FMCG). - #### Familiari y with Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma principles. - #### Experience using precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers). GENERAL SKILLS/EXPERIENCE: - Aptitude in spatial reasoning, attention to detail, and skilled craftsmanship. - Mechanical aptitude and experience (work with machines and general tooling). - Skilled in hand and power tool usage. - Ability to operate heavy machinery. - Ability to follow proper safety procedures. - Use of precision measuring instruments. - Working knowledge of all automation standard practices. - Proactive and takes ownership to resolve problems and issues. - Ability to work with employees from many different cultures and backgrounds. - Strong organizational and planning skills and housekeeping standards. - Ability to plan and execute major tasks. - Excellent communication skills (verbal and written), including the ability to interact well with vendors, team members, staff, contractors, and others. - Willing to participate in meetings and work with all teams. - Demonstrate and initiate safe work practices. - Self-starter, capable of self-supervision and willing to accept a variety of assignments. - Ability to identify and implement process improvements or efficiencies leading to cost reductions. - Strives to enhance the overall knowledge and performance level of self and others. - A demonstrated experience where quick-thinking and problem solving plays a critical role. SOFTWARE/COMPUTER SKILLS and EXPERIENCE: - General knowledge of basic hardware and software and uses of a variety of different computer operating systems such as Microsoft Office Word, Excel, Google Workspace and web-site software. DISCLAIMER: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Management maintains the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. ENVIRONMENTAL and PHYSICAL FACTORS: The physical demands and work environment described below represent the activities and surroundings of the position(s). Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Works primarily in a warehouse/manufacturing facility. Daily contact with other departmental personnel. Occasionally works in all weather conditions, extreme temperatures, around chemicals and chemical fumes/emissions, dusty and clean environments. Frequently works with electrical and mechanical hazards. When working with surplus and scrap materia