Summary
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Bead Department Operator to join our tire manufacturing team. This role is responsible for operating and maintaining equipment across all three critical areas of the Bead Department: Bead Forming, Bead Covering, and Bead Filler.
The ideal candidate will be:
- Safety-conscious
- Mechanically inclined
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment
To be considered for this opportunity, candidates must be willing and able to learn and work across all three areas. Flexibility, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to safety and quality are essential for success in this role.
Responsibilities
Please review the information below for an overview of each section:
Bead Forming
- Operate bead forming machines to produce steel wire hoops used in tire construction.
- Load and thread steel wire onto forming equipment.
- Monitor machine settings for wire tension, diameter, and overlap alignment.
- Inspect formed beads for shape consistency and wire splices (BIC and weight).
- Perform minor adjustments and routine maintenance to prevent defects or downtime.
- Weld wires together and operate overhead cranes.
- Record production data and report abnormalities to maintenance or supervision.
Bead Covering
- Operate machines that wrap and bond fabric or rubber onto the formed steel bead.
- Align covering materials to ensure uniform wrapping and coverage.
- Monitor temperature and pressure to ensure proper bonding.
- Trim excess material and inspect for cosmetic or structural defects.
- Maintain proper material storage and labeling to prevent cross-contamination.
- Keep machines and work areas clean and organized.
Bead Filler
- Feed bead filler strips (rubber compounds) into extruders for tire building.
- Hand-stitch filler material to the covered bead, ensuring correct placement and bonding.
- Set machine parameters based on bead size and specifications.
- Visually inspect finished products for defects or air pockets.
- Execute production plans to optimize manpower and machine productivity while minimizing scrap and foreign material.
- Monitor and confirm the condition of all safety devices using routine safety checks.
- Respond to downtime events by initiating countermeasures and following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and safety programs.
- Complete shift reports, ensure proper turnover, and maintain traceability documentation.
- Operate machines in compliance with safety standards, SOPs, and quality control plans.
- Report unsafe conditions, defective work causes, and machine abnormalities promptly.
- Maintain strong working relationships and proper equipment handling.
- Adhere to company policies, including:
- 5S: A workplace organization method focusing on Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain.
- EMS (Environmental Management System): A framework that helps manage environmental responsibilities efficiently and sustainably.
Knowledge and Skills
- Working knowledge of high-speed equipment
- Minor Troubleshooting
- Ability to evaluate and complete quality checks and document results using data base collection system.
- Ability to make product changeovers on various pieces of equipment.
- Ability to make accurate measurements for the effective production of raw materials.
- Ability to successfully operate overhead hoist lift.
- Effective communication skills and teamwork.
Education and Experience
- At least High School graduate or GED equivalent
- Previous experience in tire manufacturing or a related field preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for long periods and lift,push and/or pull heavy objects. (50LBS or more)