Lead Co-Extrusion Operator / Extrusion Technician

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 ResponsibilitiesMachine OperationSet 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.Quality ControlMonitor 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.Material HandlingPrepare 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.Process ImprovementIdentify 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.Safety and MaintenanceAdhere 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 SkillsEducation: High school diploma or equivalent required; technical certifications in manufacturing or plastics preferred. To be considered for the technician level, technical education/experience is a must.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.Comfort with writing reports and utilizing Microsoft excel or similar.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 is helpful but not requiredExperience with Collins Solutions extrusion equipmentFolio Photonics is an equal opportunity employer.

Created: 2025-02-07