Pre-Expander/Molding Operator

INDEVCO North America, a protective materials manufacturing group, is committed to innovating energy-efficient building envelope products, as well as sustainable paper and plastic packaging solutions. In addition, we have invested in and manage recycling operations for biomass and reprocessed materials that create a circular economy. Our facilities - in Georgia, Mississippi, New Jersey, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia - serve a growing range of markets: building and construction, beverage, chemical and petrochemical, food, industrial salt and minerals, lawn and garden, packaging converting, pet food, and transport. INDEVCO has operated for over 40 years in the US, as Interstate Resources, Inc. through 2017 and presently as INDEVCO North America. For more information, visit www.INDEVCONorthAmerica.com.

The Pre-Expander/Molding Operator is responsible for operating pre-expansion and molding equipment to produce high-quality Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) beads and molded products. This role ensures material consistency, proper machine operation, and adherence to production specifications while maintaining a safe and efficient workspace.

Key Responsibilities:

• Pre-Expansion Process:
  • Operate and monitor the pre-expander to control steam, air, and temperature settings for optimal EPS bead expansion.
  • Adjust density and expansion rates to meet production requirements.
  • Transfer pre-expanded beads to aging silos, ensuring proper curing time before molding.
• Molding & Machine Operation:
  • Operate EPS molding machines (block or shape molding) to form finished products.
  • Ensure mold cavities are clean, properly assembled, and aligned for accurate shaping.
  • Adjust steam, vacuum, and pressure settings to achieve proper fusion and dimensional accuracy.
• Material Handling & Processing:
  • Load raw EPS beads into the pre-expander and ensure correct material flow.
  • Unload and handle molded EPS products safely for further processing or packaging.
  • Inspect products for defects such as poor fusion, shrinkage, or warping.
• Quality Control & Troubleshooting:
  • Conduct density checks and visual inspections to ensure quality standards.
  • Identify and correct molding defects, adjusting process parameters as needed.
  • Report machine malfunctions or inconsistencies to maintenance personnel.
• Safety & Maintenance:
  • Follow safety procedures when handling steam, pressurized systems, and hot surfaces.
  • Keep equipment and work areas clean, performing routine maintenance such as lubricating parts and cleaning molds.
  • Wear proper PPE and adhere to facility safety regulations.
• Documentation & Reporting:
  • Maintain records of production runs, material usage, and machine settings.
  • Communicate process improvements or material inconsistencies to supervisors.

  Qualifications & Skills:

• Experience in EPS manufacturing, molding, or plastics processing preferred.
• Basic understanding of steam systems, air pressure controls, and molding technology.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in a hot, high-humidity environment with moderate physical labor.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot process issues.
• Familiarity with workplace safety regulations and lockout/tagout procedures.

Work Environment:

• Industrial setting with exposure to steam, heat, and moving machinery.
• Standing for extended periods, lifting and maneuvering EPS materials.
• Fast-paced production environment requiring focus and efficiency.

INDEVCO North America, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate against employees or job applicants based on race, religion, color, gender, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, physical or mental impairment, veteran status, or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal or state laws, except where a bona fide occupational qualification applies.