Machine Operator

Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow’s breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, Milliken creates products that enhance people’s lives and deliver solutions for its customers and communities. Drawing on thousands of patents and a portfolio with applications across the textile, flooring, chemical and healthcare businesses, the company harnesses a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations. Discover more about Milliken’s curious minds and inspired solutions at Milliken.com and on Facebook, Instagram and  LinkedIn.

The Milliken Highland Plant, located in Cheraw, SC, has an immediate opening for a "Slitter Machine Operator" to process rolls of fabric through a slitter machine and prepare them for shipment to our customers.  

Job Summary: This position is responsible for operating slitting equipment used to inspect, slit, and prepare greige fabric according to customer specifications and manufacturing requirements. The selected candidate for this job will ensure the fabric quality standards are maintained while meeting production schedules, safety requirements, and operational efficiency goals. The Slitter Operator works closely with the Greige Inspection team to identify fabric defects, verify specifications, and accurately document production results. This is a second shift position with work hours of 4pm to 12am. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following: Other duties may be assigned.

Job Requirements:
•    Must work in a safe manner, follow all safe work rules, and attend required safety training.

•    Operate slitting and inspection equipment in accordance with established operating procedures.

•    Review production work orders and customer specifications prior to processing fabric. Verify that   piece number of the roll being slit is correct and marked off on work order.

•    Prepare the fabric for slitting. Verify fabric width, roll length, and other product specifications.

•    Pull roll on let off and thread over roller.

•    Seam roll to preceding roll with sewing machine.

•    Visually inspect the fabric for defects, inconsistencies, and quality concerns during the slitting process and inform the supervisor immediately if any are found.

•     Monitor machine performance and make routine adjustments to ensure product quality and production efficiency.

•    Label, package, and prepare finished rolls for transfer to the shipping area.

•    Remove defective material and notify supervision of quality issues requiring further investigation.

•    Accurately complete production reports, inspection records, quality documentation, and system transactions as required.

•    Maintain production standards and departmental efficiency goals.

•    Keep different styles and work orders separated.

•    Maintain a clean and organized work area utilizing good housekeeping practices.

•    Assist with machine setup, roll changes, and material handling activities as required.

•    Communicate effectively with supervisors, maintenance personnel, quality personnel, and incoming/outgoing shifts.

•    Participate in continuous improvement activities and training initiatives.

•    Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
Education and Experience   

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Manufacturing experience preferred.
• Textile manufacturing experience preferred.
• Experience operating inspection, slitting, converting, or production equipment is a plus.
• Basic computer skills preferred.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Ability to read and understand production orders, specifications, and work instructions.
• Ability to identify fabric defects and quality concerns.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members and supervisors.
• Ability to work safely in a manufacturing environment.
  

Physical Requirements:
•    Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during the shift.
•    Ability to frequently bend, reach, stoop, and twist.
•    Ability to lift, push, pull, and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
•    Ability to perform repetitive hand and arm movements.
•    Ability to distinguish fabric defects through visual inspection.
•    Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with varying temperatures, noise levels, dust, and moving machinery.

Work Environment
The work is performed in a textile manufacturing facility. Employees are regularly exposed to moving mechanical equipment, industrial noise, textile fibers, and production-related environmental conditions. Appropriate personal protective equipment must be worn as required.

Performance Expectations
•    Consistently meet established production goals.
•    Maintain product quality standards and inspection accuracy.
•    Demonstrate safe work practices and adherence to company policies.
•    Maintain acceptable attendance and punctuality.
•    Work cooperatively with coworkers and supervisors to support operational objectives.

Milliken is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, including but not limited to lactation), sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression (including transgender status), ancestry, national origin, citizenship, age physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.