Bead Production Operator

Summary

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Bead Department Operator to join our tire manufacturing team. This role is responsible for operating and maintaining equipment across all three critical areas of the Bead Department: Bead Forming, Bead Covering, and Bead Filler.

The ideal candidate will be:

• Safety-conscious
• Mechanically inclined
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment

To be considered for this opportunity, candidates must be willing and able to learn and work across all three areas. Flexibility, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety and quality are essential for success in this role.

Responsibilities

Please review the information below for an overview of each section:

Bead Forming

• Operate bead forming machines to produce steel wire hoops used in tire construction.
• Load and thread steel wire onto forming equipment.
• Monitor machine settings for wire tension, diameter, and overlap alignment.
• Inspect formed beads for shape consistency and wire splices (BIC and weight).
• Perform minor adjustments and routine maintenance to prevent defects or downtime.
• Weld wires together and operate overhead cranes.
• Record production data and report abnormalities to maintenance or supervision.

Bead Covering

• Operate machines that wrap and bond fabric or rubber onto the formed steel bead.
• Align covering materials to ensure uniform wrapping and coverage.
• Monitor temperature and pressure to ensure proper bonding.
• Trim excess material and inspect for cosmetic or structural defects.
• Maintain proper material storage and labeling to prevent cross-contamination.
• Keep machines and work areas clean and organized.

Bead Filler

• Feed bead filler strips (rubber compounds) into extruders for tire building.
• Hand-stitch filler material to the covered bead, ensuring correct placement and bonding.
• Set machine parameters based on bead size and specifications.
• Visually inspect finished products for defects or air pockets.
• Execute production plans to optimize manpower and machine productivity while minimizing scrap and foreign material.
• Monitor and confirm the condition of all safety devices using routine safety checks.
• Respond to downtime events by initiating countermeasures and following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and safety programs.
• Complete shift reports, ensure proper turnover, and maintain traceability documentation.
• Operate machines in compliance with safety standards, SOPs, and quality control plans.
• Report unsafe conditions, defective work causes, and machine abnormalities promptly.
• Maintain strong working relationships and proper equipment handling.
• Adhere to company policies, including:
• 5S: A workplace organization method focusing on Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain.
• EMS (Environmental Management System): A framework that helps manage environmental responsibilities efficiently and sustainably.

Knowledge and Skills

• Working knowledge of high-speed equipment
• Minor Troubleshooting
• Ability to evaluate and complete quality checks and document results using data base collection system.
• Ability to make product changeovers on various pieces of equipment.
• Ability to make accurate measurements for the effective production of raw materials.
• Ability to successfully operate overhead hoist lift.
• Effective communication skills and teamwork.

Education and Experience

• At least High School graduate or GED equivalent
• Previous experience in tire manufacturing or a related field preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods and lift,push and/or pull heavy objects. (50LBS or more)