Material Handler - Night Shift (11p-7a)

About the role

The Material Handler reports to the Shift Supervisor and plays an important role in keeping production running smoothly. This position ensures all production equipment is consistently supplied with the correct materials while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized production environment. The role supports operations within the molding area.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain an efficient route between machines, the grinding area, material storage areas, the warehouse, and assembly areas to ensure awareness of immediate and upcoming material requirements.
• Notify the Shift Supervisor immediately if a task cannot be completed as required.
• Ensure all materials and items being moved are clearly and properly identified; report any unidentified material to Quality or the Supervisor immediately.
• Follow FIFO (First-In, First-Out) inventory practices when consuming materials.
• Keep machine hoppers full, properly covered, and ensure grinders are emptied regularly.
• Verify the correct material is used for each job by referencing the Operation Instruction and/or set-up sheet.
• Be familiar with all resins used in production and blend color concentrates when required.
• Ensure the maximum allowable regrind is used in each molding process.
• Confirm all hoppers and dryers are properly covered and labeled with the correct Material ID Tag (when applicable).
• Perform grinding promptly and empty grinder buckets regularly to prevent overflow.
• Store virgin material and regrind material separately in clearly marked containers.
• Return unused material to raw material inventory.
• Communicate with the next shift’s Material Handler to coordinate mold changes and upcoming tasks.
• Notify the Supervisor when materials are running low to prevent production shortages.
• Break down empty gaylords as required.
• Ensure all applicable products are scanned before being moved to the warehouse.
• When a job is not running, remove packaging and components and store them in the designated area.
• Remove garbage from the production cell before the end of the shift.
• Keep production equipment free of spilled plastic pellets at all times.

Raw Material Change Procedures

• Turn off the loader to stop the material feed.
• Drain any remaining material from the loader or dryer and return it to storage if required.
• Disassemble and clean the loader or dryer to remove all previous material.
• Inspect the unit to ensure all pellets and dust have been removed.
• Reassemble the loader or dryer.
• Ensure the correct Material ID chip (if applicable) is placed on the dryer or loader.
• Update the dryer log sheet with the new material or lot number.

Cleaning of Grinders

• Turn off the main power switch, unplug the grinder, and lock out the main disconnect.
• Remove any remaining regrind from the drawer and store it in the raw material storage area.
• Thoroughly vacuum the drawer and corners to remove all particles.
• Disassemble the grinder and vacuum blades and screens to remove previous material.
• Reassemble and tighten all components securely.
• Sweep the grinder area to remove all pellets and debris.
• Plug in the grinder and restore power before resuming operation.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 diploma or equivalent.
• Previous material handling or injection molding experience is considered an asset.

Skills

• Forklift operation and material handling.
• Understanding of key Quality and Environmental Management System procedures related to the role.
• Ability to work with production forms, tags, and labels.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to workplace safety.
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.