Novolex Corporate
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Thermoforming & Extrusion Process Operator

  • Chattanooga, TN
  • 17 - 21 USD Hourly

Join a mission: Build smarter, safer packaging at scale

Novolex supplies foodservice, delivery/carryout, food processing, grocery, retail, and industrial customers with innovative packaging. Our materials expertise — from resin and paper to molded fiber and aluminum — spans 120 product categories, 250 brands, and 39,000+ SKUs. We’re investing in people, plants, and processes to grow responsibly.

Your mission on the floor

Own your cell. Lead with safety. Deliver quality. Collaborate across functions to meet targets and serve customers.

Compensation & hours

  • Hourly pay: $17.00–$21.00, paid weekly (experience-based)
  • Schedule: 2-2-3 rotation — Days 6:00 a.m.–6:15 p.m.; Nights 6:00 p.m.–6:15 a.m.

Core responsibilities

  • Start up/shut down extruders and thermoformers; perform basic troubleshooting on automation and auxiliary systems.
  • Run equipment to standard while learning and supporting multiple lines.
  • Accurately complete all production and quality paperwork on time.
  • Partner with packers, Leads, Supervisors, Maintenance, and Quality to exceed customer expectations.
  • Engage in continuous improvement projects that enhance safety, quality, and productivity.
  • Work independently with minimal supervision; escalate issues per procedure.
  • Meet or surpass daily line goals without sacrificing safety or quality.
  • Maintain an orderly work area; limit personal cell phone use to breaks or line downtime.
  • Coach and assist teammates; contribute to other tasks that support team outcomes.

Safety expectations

  • Model a strong safety culture and safe work practices.
  • Use required PPE and follow procedures for every task.
  • Keep workspaces clean and organized.
  • Immediately report hazards, risks, near misses, or injuries to on-shift supervision.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma preferred.
  • Effective contributor both independently and within a team.
  • Solid verbal and interpersonal communication; calm, consistent approach to conflict.
  • Willing to work overtime and off-shifts as needed.
  • Able to stand for 12 hours; able to wear required PPE.
  • Consistent, on-time attendance to support line performance.
  • Must be able to pass a drug screen and background check

Experience & tools

  • Plastic extrusion experience
  • Thermoforming experience
  • Experience operating extrusion machines

Grow with us

  • Benefits include medical, dental, and vision, plus well-being resources (programs vary by location).
  • Give back through our Focused Giving Program supporting sustainability and hunger-relief causes.
  • Advance your skills via MyLearning, company/industry curricula, a robust LMS, and Tuition Reimbursement (Non-Union).

Sustainability, built on three pillars

Our products, operations, and people form the foundation of our sustainability vision — guiding ambitious goals and action across the company.

Equal Opportunity & Accommodations

Novolex is committed to providing equal employment opportunity in all employment practices, including but not limited to selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, and compensation to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, handicap or disability, genetics, citizenship status, service member or veteran status, or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law.

Any individual who, because of his or her disability, needs an accommodation in connection with an aspect of the Company's application process should contact
myHRservices@novolex.com.

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