Polymer Compounding Line Operator

Be part of a century-long story in materials innovation

Teknor Apex began as a small Rhode Island tire shop in 1924 and has grown into a global custom compounder with facilities across the U.S., Belgium, Singapore, Germany, and China. Still privately held and family led, we invest in long-term relationships—with customers and with teammates. That’s how we build better compounds and better careers.

“Manufacturing is a team sport and we work together to achieve our goals.” ~Jon Fain

A day on the compounding line

On our plastics production team, you’ll rotate among roles that keep the line moving smoothly from raw materials to finished PVC pellets:

• Blender Operator: Convert precise additives into a uniform dry blend.
• Compounder: Weigh materials for each production run; organize and store raw materials per Teknor Apex standards.
• Packaging Operator: Pack finished PVC pellets into boxes and bags, following the schedule for silo selection and labeling.
• Console Operator: Transfer bulk raw materials from silos and tanks into mixing vessels using computer-generated load sheets.

What you’ll be responsible for

• Verify melt-mixing equipment is operating safely and correctly.
• Pull the proper processing instructions to run pellets per the manufacturing schedule.
• Follow all setup conditions; collaborate with your crew lead and supervisor when questions arise.
• Share key processing and quality updates with fellow operators, support teams, and relief operators; promptly escalate quality or process issues to the Lead or Supervisor.
• Provide break relief and flex across jobs and lines as needed.
• Successfully complete a 90-day probationary period.
• Maintain an orderly, clean work area.
• Demonstrate a team-first mindset—support peers and be available for overtime coverage.
• Participate in departmental meetings.

Physical demands

• Handle, cut, and dump bags up to 60 lbs multiple times per shift.
• Scoop from boxes/drums; total loading may reach 20,000–40,000 lbs in a shift.
• Operate fork trucks and hand trucks.
• Scrape interior blender walls as needed.
• Climb ladders and stairs; bend, stoop, and lean for periods of time.
• Move drums and related equipment.
• Wear all required PPE.

What you bring

• Ability to read/interpret documents, apply sound judgment, and solve problems.
• Solid math skills with whole numbers, fractions, decimals; able to compute rate/ratio/percent and read bar graphs.
• Reliable attendance and a strong work ethic for a continuous production environment.
• Lift up to 50 lbs repeatedly; climb stairs; work in warm to hot conditions.
• Forklift experience with a valid license; PPE provided (certified safety shoes, safety glasses, hearing protection, respirator as needed).

Training, schedule, and shift

• Training is typically on first shift for up to four weeks before moving to second or third shift.
• Overtime, including Saturdays and Sundays, may be required to meet customer demand.
• Current opening: 2nd Shift (2:40pm – 11:00pm).

Rewards and benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision with low deductibles; the company covers about 85% of costs.
• Eligibility for benefits within 30 days of hire.
• Company-paid wellness programs (smoking cessation, mental health, weight loss).
• No-cost on-site medical clinic for employees and spouses, including prescriptions, wellness visits, and immunizations.
• Up to 7% employer 401(k) contribution plus free financial planning.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Two weeks paid vacation and 13 paid holidays.
• $1,000 sign-on bonus: $250 after 30 days, $250 after 90 days, $500 after 180 days.
• Referral bonuses.
• Shift differentials: $1.25 (2nd) and $1.50 (3rd).
• 8-hour production shifts; weekly pay.
• Overtime production schedule published a year ahead—no production on most holiday weekends.
• Monthly attendance and performance bonuses.
• Pay increases as you master additional skills.
• Weekly on-site food trucks.
• Recognition points for perfect attendance, service milestones, and more—redeem for great products.
• Discounts with gyms, restaurants, theme parks, travel, auto, and more.
• Regular employee appreciation events—meals, giveaways, contests.
• Free income tax filing assistance for eligible associates.
• Community service and volunteer opportunities; Family Day celebration; service awards.

What makes you a strong match

• Excellent attendance record.
• Strong safety mindset.
• Ability to follow work instructions precisely.
• Solid, consistent work history.

Work environment

Our Fountain Inn site is a smoke-free facility; tobacco use is not permitted on company property.

Preferred proficiency

• Experience as a compounder.
• Background in plastic extrusion.

Equal Opportunity

Teknor Apex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any protected status under state or federal laws. Must be 18 years of age to work at Teknor Apex.