Production Operator - Start Immediately

Job Title: Production Operator

Job Description

This role supports the manufacturing of high-quality printing ink by operating production equipment, batching and mixing materials, and packaging finished products. You will work primarily on the 3rd shift in canning line/packout or as a batchweigher/mixer, learning to run specialized machines and applying Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) practices to keep operations running safely and efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Operate production equipment on the 3rd shift, including canning line/packout and batchweigher/mixer stations, to manufacture printing ink according to established procedures.
• Run batches of ink at proper mill settings, ensuring consistent quality and adherence to process specifications.
• Weigh up batches by following both automatic and manual steps, including correct order of ingredient addition as outlined in process instructions.
• Mix batches by safely discharging pigment and operating the mixer in compliance with all standard operating procedures.
• Operate the Hockmeyer mill to achieve and maintain optimum overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) standards.
• Package finished product into various containers, ensuring accurate fills and applying correct labels to each container.
• Perform canning operations, including operating press-out units, pump filter equipment, and related machinery.
• Create and maintain a database of all existing formulas, including processing times and key process parameters.
• Act as a quality control liaison by providing ink samples, making ink adjustments as directed, and accurately recording data.
• Complete scheduled maintenance tasks and basic troubleshooting procedures on assigned equipment to support TPM standards.
• Clean and maintain machines and work areas in line with TPM requirements, ensuring a safe, organized, and efficient workspace.
• Assist with repack activities, including transferring and re-packaging product as needed.
• Safely operate a forklift, or learn to do so, to move materials, finished goods, and supplies within the facility.
• Perform heavy lifting, including carrying large bags up and down stairs, and work comfortably in a role where materials handling can be physically demanding and occasionally messy.
• Support general warehouse and packing activities in the warehouse area as needed.
• Follow all safety guidelines, standard operating procedures, and production instructions throughout each shift.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production goals and continuously improve processes.

Essential Skills

• At least 6 months of production experience in a manufacturing or similar environment.
• At least 3 months of machine or equipment operating experience.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and the ability to understand how machines and equipment function.
• Ability to perform heavy lifting and carry loads up and down stairs, including lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Willingness to learn new processes, equipment, and TPM practices.
• Comfort working in a hands-on, sometimes messy production environment.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions, standard operating procedures, and safety guidelines.
• Basic ability to record data accurately and maintain production-related documentation.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Forklift experience, with the ability to operate safely in a production or warehouse setting; training is available for candidates without prior experience.
• Experience with batch mixing or operating mixing equipment in a manufacturing environment.
• Background in pump filter operations or similar fluid-handling equipment.
• Experience working in industries related to inks, coatings, or similar process manufacturing is beneficial.
• Familiarity with TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) concepts and practices is a plus.
• Comfort using or learning to use specialized equipment such as Hockmeyer mills and press-out units.

Why Work Here?

You join a stable manufacturing team known for its strong culture, supportive environment, and very low turnover, where people tend to build long-term careers. The organization invests in training, including teaching you to operate specialized equipment and forklifts, and provides clear opportunities to grow your skills on the production floor. You benefit from shift differentials for off-shift work once converted to direct employment, along with a structured environment that values safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Work Environment

The role is based in a manufacturing facility that produces printing ink, with work primarily performed on the 3rd shift. You work around production machinery such as mixers, mills, canning lines, press-out units, and pump filter equipment, as well as in warehouse and packing areas. The environment can be physically demanding, involving heavy lifting and carrying large bags up and down stairs, and work can be messy due to handling pigments and inks. The company provides a uniform so your personal clothing remains protected, and you have access to a locker room and related accommodations. You may use forklifts and other material-handling equipment, and you follow established safety procedures and TPM standards throughout your shift. Shift differentials are available after conversion, including additional pay for 2nd and 3rd shift work.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Edwardsville, KS.

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $21.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Edwardsville,KS.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 30, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.