Finishing Operator
Position Summary
The Finishing Operator is responsible for performing secondary finishing operations on molded plastic components to ensure products meet customer specifications, quality standards, and production requirements. This position requires attention to detail, manual dexterity, and the ability to accurately interpret work instructions, blueprints, control plans, and customer specifications. The Finishing Operator plays a critical role in delivering high-quality products by performing trimming, deburring, assembly, inspection, and packaging activities in a safe and efficient manner.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, routers, control plans, and related documentation to determine methods, sequence of operations, and dimensional and cosmetic finish requirements.
- Deburr and trim plastic components according to work instructions, control plans, and customer specifications using scalpels, specialty blades, cutters, sandpaper, files, and other hand tools.
- Remove excess material, flash, gate vestiges, and surface imperfections while maintaining dimensional integrity of the product.
- Inspect finished parts for defects, dimensional compliance, cosmetic appearance, and workmanship standards.
- Fit and assemble components and attach hardware and fittings such as brackets, hinges, pins, inserts, nuts, and fasteners using clamps, jigs, fixtures, and hand tools.
- Perform light assembly operations and verify proper fit and function of assembled components.
- Follow documented quality procedures and complete required production and inspection records accurately.
- Utilize measuring instruments such as calipers, rulers, gauges, and templates to verify product specifications.
- Identify and segregate nonconforming materials and notify supervision or Quality personnel of defects or discrepancies.
- Maintain production efficiency while meeting quality and safety requirements.
- Package finished products according to customer and company requirements.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area following 5S and housekeeping standards.
- Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and suggest opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, and safety.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- Previous manufacturing, assembly, finishing, or plastics industry experience preferred.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, work instructions, and technical documents.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Ability to use hand tools, cutting tools, and measuring devices safely and accurately.
- Basic mathematical and measurement skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Physical Requirements
- Frequent use of hands and fingers for detailed finishing and assembly work.
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds occasionally.
- Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, and repetitive hand movements.
- Good visual acuity, including close vision, color recognition, and depth perception.
- Ability to safely use sharp tools and precision cutting instruments.
Work Environment
- Manufacturing environment with exposure to moving machinery, noise, and production equipment.
- Required use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
- May require overtime and flexible scheduling to support production demands.
Key Competencies
- Attention to Detail
- Manual Dexterity
- Quality Focus
- Safety Awareness
- Problem Solving
- Teamwork
- Time Management
- Dependability
