Polymer Compounding & Extrusion Operator

Ready to make materials that make a difference?

Nearly a century ago, Alfred Fain opened a small tire shop in Rhode Island. Today, Teknor Apex is a privately held, family-led custom compounder with nine locations across the U.S. and operations in Belgium, Singapore, Germany, and China—partnering with customers worldwide to craft specialized compounds for better products.

Is this you?

• Do you thrive on keeping production lines dialed-in and running at peak rates?
• Are you meticulous about samples, specs, and documentation?
• Can you spot a safety or mechanical issue before it slows the team down?
• Do you enjoy a tight-knit, team-first culture? “Manufacturing is a team sport and we work together to achieve our goals.” ~Jon Fain

What you’ll do

• Maintain a clean, safe work area at all times.
• Meet quality targets in line with production requirements.
• Take and evaluate samples as specified.
• Control operating parameters to remain within defined run conditions.
• Push for maximum line speeds and output across assigned machines.
• Operate primary and auxiliary equipment for your area.
• Accurately complete production records and all required receiving/QC paperwork.
• Immediately notify the crew leader/shift supervisor of safety, mechanical, or operational issues.
• Perform additional tasks as assigned by leadership.

Training/Relief responsibilities

• Cover operators during breaks and assist with changeovers.
• Troubleshoot and resolve most operational problems.
• Share clear instructions and support employee training when needed.

Work style and schedule

This is a full-time, on-site role in a team-based manufacturing environment. Consistent, on-time attendance is vital to your success and the team’s safety. Mandatory overtime may be required to ensure safe staffing and production continuity; work may extend beyond a scheduled shift or involve additional hours outside the normal schedule.

What you bring

• Read/write capability for production reports (legible; proper spelling/grammar; all communications in English).
• Ability to follow SOPs and Hose Specifications per batch cards and run conditions.
• Math skills: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division.
• Certified or experienced forklift operator.

Physical capabilities

• Lift/handle machine parts up to 50 lbs.
• Move/steer hose reels up to 1200 lbs; stamina to do so up to 50 times per shift.
• Remove and reassemble tooling using basic hand tools; perform essential mechanical tasks.
• Work in summer conditions up to 15°F above outdoor temperatures.
• Produce legible handwritten entries with correct spelling and grammar.
• Bend, stoop, and lift hose, tools, and other items; perform up to 25 repetitions per shift.

Perks and benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision with very low deductibles
• 85% company-paid low-cost insurance
• Wellness program with sizable medical premium discounts
• Up to 7% employer 401(k) contribution
• Paid Vacation and Holidays
• $1,000.00 Sign-on Bonus
• Progressive pay increases in year one plus annual merit raises
• Quarterly Perfect Attendance incentives
• Employee Recognition Program with points redeemable for great products

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 or older to work at Teknor Apex.