Knitting Operator (3rd Shift)

Job Title:  Knitting Operator (3rd Shift)

SUMMARY

Assists in keeping machines in constant operation. Repairing smashes. Lifting / dropping of bars and removal and re-alignment of guides. Check front / back of assigned machine(s) to ensure there’s no productivity / quality issues at completion of repairs. Startup of the machine Records all defects on ticket and production report. Correctly documents any other required information on paperwork.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

This is a representative sample -- not to imply a complete listing of all responsibilities and tasks.

• Receives row assignment from supervisor’s/operator’s schedule posted at the time clock. 
• Check the front and back of the assigned machines to ascertain the nature of any running problems at the beginning of the shift and periodically throughout the shift.
• Monitors the operation of the knitting machines for fabric defects not noticed by the scanner. If machine is running a pattern style, will closely inspect to ensure pattern is correct.
• Patrols front of machine using a spotlight at least two (2) times a day.
• Stops the machine when a defect is noticed. The knitter goes to the machine and determines the reason for the defect. If the defect is due to the yarn problems, the knitter repairs and restarts the machine. The knitter puts the ends in straight from beam to points and from points to guides, making sure that no ends are crossed, doubled, or over the sley wire. If the knitter cannot repair the defect, he or she calls the fixer. After the defect is repaired, the knitter restarts the machine and enters the reason for the machine stop. Standard performance (within a 12-month training period) requires the operator to run at least 18 machines efficiently (2 bars @90% and 3-4 bars @85%).
• Records all defects on piece ticket and production report. Correctly documents any other required information on paperwork.
• Prepares rolls at doffing, calculates and plots SPC chart. Alerts doffer by signal light.
• Contacts fixer for repeat defects or mechanical problems such as: pin holes, broken needles, lines, chatter, etc.
• Notes level of yarn on the warps and stops machine fore yarn runs off warp.
• Record production racks on production report at the end of each shift.
• Follows all safety rules and regulations and foster safe work habits.
• Maintains good housekeeping in the work area and performs other tasks as directed.
• Performs additional duties as requested, needed, or assigned.

ABILITY TO

• Communicate clearly and effectively with co-workers, Supervisors and Managements.
• Work independently with little or no supervision and be self-motivated, detail-oriented, and a team player.
• Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram record data or schedule form.
• Physically able to work hands-on in a manufacturing environment – manual dexterity, visual acuity, and speed.
• Effectively organize, set priorities, schedule assigned work; oversee multiple and rapidly changing priorities.
• Displays ability to work in highly productive, constantly changing environment.
• Effectively execute tasks.
• Exceptional work performance and attendance record.
• Solid leadership skills; able to lead by example; decision-maker and effective communicating.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office – Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint
• Project a strong, confident presence
• High level of professionalism, confidentiality, discretion and attention to detail

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or equivalent combination of education and experience.