Operator, Lead - Blend Department

About the role

The Blend Department Lead oversees daily blending operations within the copper powder manufacturing process, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant activities.

Responsibilities

• Promote and enforce all company safety policies and procedures.
• Conduct routine safety inspections and participate in incident investigations.
• Ensure proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations related to metal powder handling.
• Support housekeeping standards and 5S initiatives throughout the department.
• Lead and coordinate daily blending operations to meet production schedules and customer requirements.
• Assign work tasks and priorities to blending operators.
• Monitor workflow and equipment utilization to maximize productivity and minimize downtime.
• Ensure accurate execution of blend formulas, batch sheets, and work instructions.
• Communicate production status, challenges, and priorities to supervisors and management.
• Verify adherence to blend specifications and quality standards.
• Review batch documentation for completeness and accuracy.
• Cover sampling and testing activities with Quality Assurance personnel.
• Investigate quality deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure traceability of raw materials and finished blends.
• Monitor blending equipment performance and report maintenance needs.
• Cookordinate preventive maintenance activities with the maintenance department.
• Troubleshoot process and equipment issues to minimize production interruptions.
• Recommend process improvements to enhance product quality, efficiency, and consistency.
• Verify availability of raw materials for scheduled production.
• Ensure accurate material handling, storage, and inventory transactions.
• Monitor material usage and identify opportunities to reduce waste.
• Cookordinate with warehouse and production planning personnel.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree in Manufacturing Technology, Engineering, Industrial Technology, or related field preferred.
• 3-5 years of manufacturing experience required.
• Previous experience in powder metallurgy, metal powder processing, chemical processing, or blending operations preferred.
• Prior leadership, lead operator, or supervisory experience preferred.
• Possess Ability to maintain regular and consistent attendance to support production schedules and operational requirements.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and quality systems.
• Knowledge of powder handling and industrial safety practices.
• Ability to read and interpret batch records, production schedules, and work instructions.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication and leadership abilities.
• Proficiency with ERP, inventory, and manufacturing software systems.
• Ability to operate forklifts, hoists, and material handling equipment as required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in an industrial manufacturing environment with exposure to dust, noise, and varying temperatures.
• Ability to wear required PPE, including dust mask or respirators when necessary.
• Ability to regularly climb stairs and work from heights when necessary.