ETCHING OPERATOR
Pay $ 20.00
Shift 2nd
POSITION SUMMARY
The Etching Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring chemical etching processes used in the manufacturing of precision medical tubing. This position ensures production lots meet established product specifications and customer requirements through careful machine operation, process monitoring, material inspection, and quality control.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, safety-conscious, mechanically inclined, and comfortable working with chemicals and manufacturing equipment. Strong judgment and problem-solving skills are important, as the operator must recognize defects, identify equipment issues, and make appropriate process adjustments to maintain quality.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Operate and monitor etching equipment to process production lots according to established procedures and specifications.
- Perform equipment start-up, in-process monitoring, and shutdown procedures.
- Monitor etching parameters and make appropriate adjustments when a process is at risk of going out of specification.
- Inspect incoming production materials to ensure they meet established product requirements before use.
- Perform random and in-process quality inspections.
- Visually inspect tubing for extremely small defects, color variations, dimensional differences, and other quality concerns.
- Identify production or quality issues and assist in determining appropriate corrective actions.
- Recognize potential equipment malfunctions and troubleshoot issues within the scope of the position.
- Collect and document production or quality data as required for customers and internal processes.
- Properly handle, use, store, and dispose of chemical solutions and hazardous materials in accordance with established safety procedures.
- Follow all required manufacturing, quality, safety, and company procedures.
- Properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow chemical safety protocols.
- Operate and maintain spool-winding equipment as trained.
- Complete required equipment and process training, including Optical Tensiometer training.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe manufacturing environment.
- Complete additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education
- High school diploma or equivalent experience required.
Experience
- Previous manufacturing experience preferred.
- Previous quality control or inspection experience preferred.
- Previous machine operation or troubleshooting experience preferred.
- Experience working with chemicals or hazardous materials is a plus.
- Required training will be provided for employees working with hazardous materials and hazardous waste.
REQUIRED SKILLS & ABILITIES
- Strong attention to detail and ability to identify very small product defects.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to recognize when equipment or machinery is not operating properly.
- Ability to make appropriate process adjustments within established guidelines.
- Ability to accurately follow detailed written procedures and work instructions.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Self-motivated with the ability to begin and complete assigned tasks with minimal supervision.
- Ability to prioritize work and respond appropriately to changing production needs.
- Flexibility to work overtime as required.
- Strong commitment to workplace safety and quality.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Frequently move throughout the manufacturing environment and access production machinery.
- Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 70 pounds.
- Ability to safely handle and store hazardous chemicals using required PPE and safety procedures.
- Ability to work in manufacturing areas with varying temperatures.
- Ability to work in an environment involving exposure to certain physical or chemical hazards while following required safety precautions.
- Must have the ability to continuously use vision for detailed inspection of tubing, including identifying very small defects, color variations, and measurements.
- Respiratory protection may be required depending on job duties. Employees may be required to obtain annual medical clearance and respiratory mask certification.
