Production Operator – Manufacturing & Extrusion The Production Operator plays a key role in safely running compounding and extrusion lines, moving materials throughout the facility, and ensuring consistent, high‑quality production. This position sets up and operates feed systems, extruders, and auxiliary equipment, supports railcar loading/unloading, and keeps accurate production records in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment. Ideal candidates bring strong mechanical aptitude, hands‑on manufacturing experience, and the ability to multitask while maintaining safety and quality standards. Responsibilities • Follow all established safety procedures to maintain a safe work environment. • Move product using forklifts and pallet jacks; manually load materials into feed systems. • Perform safe top‑ and bottom‑loading/unloading of railcars. • Set up and operate feed systems, extruders, and auxiliary equipment independently. • Work with extrusion machines and biometric feeders to support continuous production. • Coordinate internal material movement between production and warehouse areas. • Complete and maintain accurate production records and documentation. • Monitor production processes, identify issues, troubleshoot, and communicate findings to supervisors and QA. • Inspect product in railcars to verify quality and compliance with specifications. • Clean equipment and facilities to maintain a safe, orderly work environment. • Perform efficient clean‑outs during product changeovers. • Support equipment and facility improvement projects as assigned. • Use basic math skills for production‑related calculations. • Contribute ideas to continuous improvement initiatives. • Support polymer‑related quality control activities as needed. • Perform basic machine maintenance within skill level. • Assist with warehouse operations, inventory control, and general production tasks. • Provide guidance to other employees on equipment operation and production tasks. • Perform other duties as needed to support smooth plant operations. Essential Skills • Minimum 2 years’ experience in at least two of the following: • Loss‑in‑Weight feeders, polymer extrusion, pneumatic conveying, rail yard operations, forklift operation. • Proven experience operating production machinery in a manufacturing environment. • Hands‑on experience with extrusion machines and feed systems. • Safe operation of forklifts and pallet jacks. • Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort with industrial equipment. • Understanding of warehouse operations and inventory control. • Ability to monitor processes, identify issues, and perform basic troubleshooting. • Familiarity with QA practices and inspection reporting. • Ability to maintain accurate production data and documentation. • Basic math skills for measurements and calculations. • Reliable, punctual, and able to multitask in a fast‑paced environment. • Strong commitment to safety and following procedures. Additional Skills & Qualifications • 5+ years of direct experience in two or more core areas listed above. • Six Sigma or continuous improvement experience. • Experience in regulated environments (medical or food/CGMP). • Familiarity with MES or similar production tracking systems. • Experience with polymer quality control testing. • Basic machine maintenance or preventive maintenance experience. • Experience in warehouse management or medical device production. • Strong communication and collaboration skills. • High attention to detail and commitment to producing consistent, high‑quality output. Why Work Here Join a stable, growing organization with clear opportunities for advancement. Enjoy a full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), short‑term disability, and long‑term disability. Work in a team‑oriented environment that values efficiency, quality, and continuous improvement while supporting your professional development. Work Environment This role is based in an indoor warehouse and production facility that is not climate controlled, with occasional short periods of outdoor work. You will work around extrusion machines, biometric feeders, feed systems, forklifts, pallet jacks, and other industrial equipment. The environment is hands‑on, safety‑focused, and requires appropriate manufacturing‑ready attire. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chesapeake, VA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $24.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Chesapeake,VA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Sep 2, 2026. About Aerotek Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK. Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.