Cell Operator

Cell Operator I – Job Summary
Responsible for operating and maintaining injection molding production cells in a manufacturing environment. This role includes setting up and operating machines, changing mold bases, ensuring quality standards, performing secondary part finishing operations, and supporting production schedules safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

• Machine Setup & Operation
• Set up and operate injection molding and trim machines
• Locate and install mold bases
• Preheat mold bases before use
• Change out mold bases as required
• Purge machines of foreign material
• Make initial machine adjustments for specific production orders
• Troubleshoot machine issues during production
• Perform routine machine maintenance

Secondary Operations / Finishing Work

• Trim excess material from parts
• O-ring installation
• Skiving
• Gate clipping
• Inspect finished parts for quality defects

Production & Quality Expectations

• Monitor part quality throughout production
• Maintain production schedule and output goals
• Record accurate production data (labor reports, quantities, rejects, reclaim tickets, hours worked)

Safety & Workplace Standards

• Actively follow and support all plant safety programs
• Immediately report injuries, near misses, and unsafe conditions
• Maintain a clean, organized work area following 5S standards
• Keep tools stored properly and work areas free of debris

Team & Attendance Expectations

• Participate in High-Performance Teams (HPTs) and continuous improvement efforts
• Maintain consistent attendance and punctuality
• Must be available for overtime based on production demand
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• OR
• 3+ years of machine operation or related manufacturing experience

Required Skills

• Ability to read and follow:
• Work orders
• Blueprints
• Equipment manuals
• Written and verbal instructions
• Basic math skills (add, subtract, multiply, calculate ratios/percentages)
• Strong problem-solving and common-sense reasoning ability

Physical Requirements

• Standing and walking frequently/constantly
• Frequent use of hands for machine operation and part handling
• Lifting and carrying up to:
• 20 lbs frequently
• 50 lbs occasionally
• Occasional bending, squatting, kneeling, and overhead reaching
• Ability to push/pull materials in production environment
• Visual ability (near vision and color recognition)
• Ability to wear required PPE (safety glasses, safety shoes, etc.)

Work Environment

• Manufacturing floor with moving mechanical equipment
• Exposure to:
  • Loud noise
  • Heat
  • Fumes/airborne particles (occasionally)
  • Vibration
  • Electrical/mechanical hazards
• Safety-focused environment requiring constant awareness