Press Operator - 1st Shift

Leigh Fibers, headquartered in Wellford, SC, is a well-established international manufacturer specializing in engineered fiber solutions. With a strong focus on sustainability, Leigh Fibers is recognized as the largest processor of textile waste in North America, diverting approximately 300 million pounds of waste annually. Having been in operation for over a century, Leigh Fibers has a solid reputation in the industry, built upon extensive experience, continuous innovation, and enduring global relationships. The company serves various markets, including automotive, bedding, caskets, furniture, apparel, acoustic insulation, sporting equipment, specialty fibers, and more.

As Leigh Fibers expands its market share, the company is actively seeking individuals who are motivated, driven, and eager to contribute to their family-like work environment. By joining Leigh Fibers, employees have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment while feeling valued as part of a team. If you are interested in working with Leigh Fibers and being part of their mission, I encourage you to research the available opportunities with the company.

A Press Operator, or Machine Press Operator, runs computer-controlled machines that cut, shape, and design various materials. The main duties include troubleshooting machines for malfunctions or irregularities, fixing machine parts as needed to ensure they operate properly, and conducting quality checks.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Operate lift truck to remove bales from the holding area as needed.
• Visually inspect finished bales for any variances in quality (color, threads, foreign material, etc.) and alert the lead operator of any changes.
• Weigh and properly label finished bales.
• Maintain ropes and bale wraps needed for the removal of finished bales.
• Use compressed air to clean the press as needed. 
• Maintain continuous housekeeping standards. 
• Wear all the required personal protective equipment.
• Perform all tasks safely according to the Job Safety Analysis (JSAs).
• Knowledge and understanding of emergency codes.
• Keep the lift truck and wheels clean (JSA #15).
• Perform visual and operational checks of lift trucks prior to operation.
• Perform any other job-related tasks as directed by the production operator or production lead operator.
• Follow all lockout/tagout procedures.
• Report any unsafe acts or conditions to your production lead operator.
• Keep body parts clear of all pinch points.
• Operate bale dolly.
• Electric bale dolly battery change-out.
• Clean press condenser.

Physical Job Demands

• Moderate physical effort is required.
• Regularly required to lift a 6-lb jig with multiple extensions to a height of 72” while guiding the extensions into slots at the top of the press foot. Must be able to reach/apply packaging at an 80” height.  
  1. Note: The task is performed every 4 – 7 minutes.
• Regularly required to stand, reach, and move about the facility. 
• Pulling/pushing of press doors during bale removal. 
• Connecting of ropes around finished material bales. 
• Climbing on or off the lift truck, steps to the catwalk, and ladders.

Qualifications: 

• Able to understand directions and communicate with others.
• Educational and Mechanical requirements as set forth by Leigh Fibers, Inc. 
• Meet minimum pre-employment testing standards.
• Must possess an on-site issued lift truck operator license.

Additional Information: 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential job functions satisfactorily.

Leigh Fibers is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Leigh Fibers will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. Leigh Fibers uses E-Verify.

EEO Employer / Veteran / Disabled

*This job description is not a contract and may not include all duties as assigned.