Lead Co-Extrusion Operator

Candidates at all levels will be considered. Salary and specific title commensurate with experience.

Location: Folio Photonics; Solon, OH

Job Type: Full time salaried position with benefits

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

Folio Photonics is a dynamic startup company focused on developing a multi-terabyte multilayer fluorescent optical disc with a decades long shelf-life, small environmental footprint, and low total cost of ownership. This technology represents a significant and much needed breakthrough for the archival and nearline data storage industry.

JOB DESCRIPTION

As a Co-Extrusion Operator, you will play a critical role in the production of high-quality polymer-based materials through co-extrusion processes. You will be responsible for operating and monitoring extrusion equipment, ensuring production schedules are met, and maintaining quality standards. This position requires technical expertise, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety and continuous improvement. A successful candidate will be …

• an EXPERIENCED extrusion operator (10 year minimum). Familiar with system set-up and management for production runs and able to continually improve overall extrusion process to optimize for material changes, etc.
• a HIGHLY MOTIVATED leader looking to join a startup, wear multiple hats as we finalize production equipment selection, who desires to eventually manage the Production Team.
• a DISCIPLINED and ROLE MODEL employee, desiring to set the culture of the manufacturing production of a start-up.
• a SELF STARTER and PROBLEM SOLVER, who not only works on production process and equipment development, yet is interested in guiding our efforts through production hurdles.
• an EXCELLENT COMMUNICATOR, able to communicate with management on challenges/resolutions as well as train a cadre of operators.

Key Responsibilities

1. Machine Operation

· Set up, operate, and monitor co-extrusion equipment to produce multi-layer polymer films or products per standard operating procedures (SOPs).

· Adjust machine settings (temperature, speed, pressure, etc.) to meet production specifications per Best-of-Breed (BOB) definitions.

· Conduct routine equipment checks and address minor mechanical issues to ensure consistent operation.

2. Quality Control

· Monitor product quality during production, ensuring materials meet dimensional and performance specifications.

· Perform tests such as thickness, adhesion, and layer uniformity checks.

· Document production and quality data accurately and promptly before and after a co-extrusion run using project plan and after-action-reports respectively.

3. Material Handling

· Prepare raw materials, including polymers, additives, and resins, for the extrusion process including drying to specifications.

· Ensure proper feeding and mixing of materials into the co-extrusion equipment.

· Manage material inventory and report shortages or discrepancies.

4. Process Improvement

· Identify areas for process optimization to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and maintain quality.

· Collaborate with the engineering team to implement improvements and troubleshoot issues.

· Participate in lessons learned reviews after production runs.

5. Safety and Maintenance

· Adhere to all safety guidelines and protocols, maintaining a clean and organized workspace.

· Assist with routine maintenance and cleaning of extrusion equipment.

· Report any safety hazards or equipment malfunctions immediately.

Qualifications and Skills

· Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certifications in manufacturing or plastics preferred.

· Experience:

· Prior experience operating co-extrusion or extrusion equipment in a manufacturing environment (10+ years).

· Familiarity with multi-layer film production or polymer processing is a plus.

· Technical Skills:

· Understanding of extrusion process parameters and controls.

· Ability to read and interpret technical documents, such as blueprints or production schedules.

· Basic mechanical and troubleshooting skills.

· Physical Requirements:

· Ability to stand for extended periods and lift materials up to 50 lbs.

· Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures.

Nice-to-have Qualifications:

• Previous problem-solving approaches using statistical methodology helpful but not necessary.

• Experience with Collins Solutions extrusion equipment.