Tufting Machine Operator

this position will train on 1st shift M-F 7-5 and then move to swing shift 7am-7pm (A/C) shifts.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Report to Shift Supervisor for instructions and machine assignments
   1. Verify tape measure and stitch gauge at weight check table, Record on Tufting Daily Manufacturing Report, MSP6 Att7.
2. Upon arriving at assigned machine, locate all paperwork.
3. Check specifications, for the style being produced, with specifications listed on Creel Set Up and Start Approval Sheet, MSP7 Stt22, using tape measure and stitch gauge as applicable.
   1. Width
   2. Stiches/3"
   3. Pile Height
   4. Primary Backing-Check type of primary running and check alignment of backing.
   5. Yarn Lots
   6. Quality Inspection-Streaks, High Lines, Loops
   7. Line Placement-(if applicable, on Tufting Work Order, MDP7 Att2)

If any of the above or any other non-conformities are found, do not start production on machine until issue(s) is/are corrected. If issue cannot be corrected at machine, contact Tufting Supervisor immediately. Do NOT start machine until approved by Supervisor.

1. Run machine in accordance with specified roll length requirements on Tufting Work Order, MSP7 Att2. Pay particular attention to the following:
   1. Line Placements-Ensure double sign off on Work Order with Supervisor, Fixer or Mender-Lead.
   2. Sewing Width
2. Record all production on the Tufting Daily Manufacturing Report, MSP6 Att7. Record Primary Backing if changed during roll. Pay close attention to each Primary Backing Seam and the alignment of the backings. If backing is not aligned properly, contact Tufting Supervisor.
3. Perform Quality Control checks after every roll.
   1. Locate Quality Control Tufting Roll Checks, MSP7 Att23, inside order packet.
   2. Fill out all required information and initial each roll.
   3. If running a Dual Fiber system, check every roll for crossed ends.

If any non-conformities are found, stop production on machine and get issue corrected. If issue cannot be corrected by routine maintenance, call Tufting Mechanic for assistance. If issues still are not corrected, contact Tufting Supervisor immediately. Do NOT start machine until approved by supervisor.

1. Obtain weight check at the first roll following a creel change or order change.
   1. Obtain routine weight check at end of first tufted roll following shift change.
   2. Obtain weight check on tufted rolls ending in "0" or where marked on Tufting Work Order, MSP7 Att2.
   3. Identify Weight check using Weight Check Verification Label, MSP7 Att2.
   4. Take weight check immediately to Weight Check Table and Notify Supervisor.
   5. Stop machine until weight is verified. Once verified, Supervisor, Fixer, or Mender-Lead will notify operator to re-start machine.
2. Perform Routine Maintenance (changing hooks, blades and needles) as required to keep product free from visual defects. Record on Tufting Daily Manufacturing Report, MSP6 Att7.
3. Creel and mend, as necessary, according to the appropriate Job Guidelines.
4. Keep work area clean at all times.
5. Notify Supervisor immediately of any Safety, Quality, or Production issues.
6. Follow all company regulations as specified in the Playcore/Sprinturf Handbook.
7. Perform any and all other tasks as required by Supervisor.

Education and/or Experience

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Manufacturing experience is preferred
  

Travel

N/A

Reasoning Ability

Must have the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.

Computer Skills

Demonstrated proficiency with MS Office: Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Teams.

Other Requirements

• Must be able to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Must function effectively both independently and in a team environment.
• Positive attitude and good work ethic.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and strong ability to multitask.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the administrative duties of this job, the employee will frequently walk and sit; use hands and fingers, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or listen. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus.

Must have the ability to sit for long periods of time, bend, twist, squat, stand, walk, kneel, may require repetitive lifting, pulling and pushing up to 25 pounds, ability to reach above head.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet, except in the manufacturing environment where PPE may be required.