Primary Operator (Temp to Hire)

Job Details: Job Location: Data Cable

• GARDNER, MA, Salary Range: $20.00 - $24.00Hourly, Job Summary
• The Primary Extrusion Operator manufacturing role within a wire and cable production environment.
• This position supports the extrusion process used to apply insulation or jacketing materials to wire and cable products.
• The operator works closely with senior operators, technicians, and supervisors to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production.
• This role is ideal for individuals seeking hands-on experience in industrial manufacturing and extrusion operations.

Qualifications

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with the setup, start-up, and shutdown of primary extrusion lines.
• Support operation of extrusion equipment including extruders, payoffs, take-ups, cooling troughs, and spark testers.
• Monitor process parameters such as temperature zones, line speed, pressure, and material flow.
• Load and stage raw materials including resins, compounds, conductors, and reels.
• Perform basic equipment adjustments under supervision according to standard operating procedures.
• Inspect in-process and finished product for surface defects, diameter variation, wall thickness, and color consistency.
• Use measuring tools such as micrometers, calipers, and gauges to verify product specifications.
• Accurately complete production reports, quality checks, and material traceability documentation.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of work area in accordance with 5S and housekeeping standards.
• Communicate equipment issues, quality concerns, or process abnormalities to the extrusion lead or supervisor.

Qualifications

• Willingness to learn extrusion processes, materials, and equipment.
• Mechanical aptitude with interest in industrial machinery and manufacturing operations.
• Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions accurately.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality in a production-based environment.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, overtime, weekends, or holidays as business needs require. Skills and Competencies
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on product quality and consistency.
• Basic math skills for measurements, calculations, and data recording.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work as part of a team.
• Basic troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Time management skills to meet production schedules and deadlines.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous manufacturing, machine operation, or industrial experience is a plus but not required.
• Company-provided on-the-job training for extrusion processes, equipment, and quality requirements. Safety Requirements
• Comply with all company safety policies, procedures, and work rules.
• Properly use required personal protective equipment including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection.
• Follow lockout/tagout and machine guarding requirements at all times.
• Maintain awareness of hot surfaces, rotating equipment, and moving machinery.
• Immediately report injuries, near misses, unsafe conditions, or equipment damage. Physical Requirements and Work Environment
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during a shift.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds with or without assistance.
• Frequent bending, reaching, and manual handling of materials.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with noise, heat, and industrial materials.
• Use of repetitive motions while operating and monitoring equipment.