Process Technician

As a Process Technician at Plastipak, you are responsible for operating and monitoring high-tech manufacturing equipment used to create rigid plastic containers. This includes making necessary adjustments to machinery settings, performing quality checks to ensure compliance with customer specifications, troubleshooting any equipment issues, and conducting routine maintenance. You will also collaborate with a team focused on continuous improvement in safety, reliability, and quality. If you enjoy problem-solving and working in a dynamic environment, this position could be a great fit!

To qualify for the Process Technician role at Plastipak, candidates need a high school diploma or GED, along with a minimum of one year of experience in manufacturing, particularly with equipment used for high-volume production. While experience with extrusion or blow molding equipment is preferred, a basic understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical mechanics is also beneficial. Applicants should possess strong troubleshooting skills and the physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds. If you meet these qualifications, we’d love to hear from you!

Plastipak provides a comprehensive benefits package for its Process Technicians that includes wellness programs, health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision, and an employee assistance program. Additional benefits feature life insurance, disability insurance, a 401(k) plan with company matching, paid time off, and even pet insurance. There are also opportunities for tuition assistance and scholarships for employees' children. We truly care about our associates and strive to offer a supportive work environment along with these great benefits!

The work schedule for a Process Technician at Plastipak consists of set 12-hour shifts, specifically from 6:45 PM to 7:15 AM, on a rotating cycle of 3 days on, 2 days off, 2 days on, and then 3 days off. This unique schedule allows for 2 weekends off per month, plus a 3-day weekend, which helps to ensure a healthy work-life balance. If you are looking for a position that offers both stability and flexibility, consider the opportunity at Plastipak!

At Plastipak, safety is our top priority! We’ve cultivated a work culture where safety is integrated into all aspects of our operations. As a recognized America’s Safest Company by EHS Today, we emphasize strict adherence to safety protocols, provide ongoing safety training, and utilize advanced technology in a clean, climate-controlled environment. Team collaboration is encouraged to identify continuous improvement opportunities focused on maintaining a secure workplace for all. Join us to contribute to this commitment to safety.

When troubleshooting equipment issues, I begin by observing the machinery closely to identify any unusual behaviors or malfunctions. I consult operational manuals for specific error codes or reference guides on the equipment. It’s also essential to collaborate with team members to gather insights on previous issues and solutions. Once I diagnose the problem, I take a systematic approach to resolve it, ensuring that all adjustments comply with safety regulations and quality standards.

Quality checks are critical to ensuring that products meet set specifications and customer expectations. In my experience as a Process Technician, I conduct quality checks by measuring bottle weights and dimensions and verifying that they align with standards. This proactive approach not only helps minimize waste and rework but also enhances customer satisfaction and trust in our products at Plastipak.

I have hands-on experience operating extrusion and blow molding equipment in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. I understand the necessary adjustments to temperature, pressure, and cooling systems to optimize production efficiency. My experience includes troubleshooting common issues that arise in these systems and conducting routine maintenance to prevent downtime, ensuring smooth operations.

Prioritizing safety involves being aware of my surroundings, following all safety protocols, and ensuring that I wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times. I also engage in safety training sessions and regularly communicate with my team to promote a culture of safety. Lastly, I’m proactive in identifying potential hazards and addressing them immediately to maintain a secure working environment.

Working effectively in a team environment is about communication, collaboration, and respect for each other's roles. I believe in actively participating in team discussions, sharing ideas for improvements, and being open to feedback. I understand that in a manufacturing setting, every team member plays a crucial role in achieving our goals, and I am committed to fostering positive relationships with colleagues to ensure we collectively succeed.

To maintain efficiency during production, I make sure to stay focused on my responsibilities while also being aware of the overall workflow. This includes monitoring equipment closely for any inefficiencies, communicating with my team to stay aligned on schedules, and being ready to adjust to any unexpected challenges. Additionally, I continuously seek out and suggest improvements based on performance metrics and quality checks to help streamline operations.

My approach to routine maintenance involves having a proactive mindset. I refer to maintenance manuals and follow scheduled maintenance protocols to ensure all machinery operates optimally. Regular inspections help me catch wear and tear before it becomes a significant issue. If I discover any abnormalities during my checks, I document them and report them immediately to take appropriate action, ensuring that production can continue smoothly.

I admire Plastipak’s commitment to quality and safety, along with its strong reputation as an industry leader. The promote-from-within philosophy resonates with my career aspirations, and I value the opportunity to grow with a company that emphasizes teamwork and innovation. I am passionate about the manufacturing field, and working at Plastipak would allow me to contribute to creating high-quality products while advancing my skills.

Handling stress and pressure effectively is all about maintaining a positive attitude and being organized. I prioritize my tasks based on urgency and help support my colleagues when needed. I also take breaks when possible to refresh my focus. Having a clear understanding of our goals helps me stay motivated during busy periods, and I am always ready to adapt my approach based on the situation that arises.

Continuous improvement is fundamental to success in manufacturing. I actively seek ways to improve processes by analyzing production data, gathering feedback, and brainstorming solutions with my team. This commitment to identifying inefficiencies and areas for enhancement not only boosts productivity but also fosters a culture of innovation, allowing us to deliver the best possible results at Plastipak.