Process Trainer – Deckorators (Buffalo, NY)

Job Summary

The Process Trainer is responsible for developing, delivering, and maintaining all operator and technician training related to extrusion processes, equipment operation, safety, and quality standards. This role supports the successful startup, optimization, and ongoing performance of our flagship Surestone extrusion lines by ensuring employees are properly trained and equipped to run processes safely, efficiently, and consistently.

The Process Trainer will work closely with Operations, Process Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance to strengthen operator capability, reduce process variation, improve line performance, and support a culture of continuous improvement.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Train operators and technicians on extrusion line operation, startup, shutdown, safety procedures, and processing standards.

Develop, implement, and maintain training materials including SOPs, run sheets, troubleshooting guides, and process documentation.

Coach employees on understanding the effects of material changes, temperature variations, tooling adjustments, and process parameter shifts.

Support operators in diagnosing out-of-spec conditions and recommend appropriate parameter changes.

Collaborate with Maintenance and Quality teams to address process, mechanical, or material issues impacting performance.

Lead on-floor training during line startups, trials, product transitions, and new equipment introduction.

Observe and evaluate operator performance; provide feedback and additional training as needed.

Assist Process Engineering in capturing best practices and translating them into teachable, standardized processes.

Maintain training records, certification progress, and skill assessments for all line personnel.

Participate in CI initiatives to improve uptime, throughput, and product quality.

Reinforce safe work practices, including proper LOTO, equipment operation, and hazard recognition.

Perform other duties as required to support training, process stability, and plant performance.

Qualifications

Minimum 3 years of experience as a lead operator, process technician, or extrusion technician; extrusion or polymer experience strongly preferred.

Strong mechanical aptitude with ability to understand process behavior, tooling function, and equipment operation.

Demonstrated ability to train, coach, and communicate effectively across all levels.

Ability to read and interpret run sheets, SOPs, process documentation, and blueprints.

Proficient in using measurement tools including tape measure and calipers.

Comfortable performing minor adjustments and routine mechanical tasks.

Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs as needed.

Ability to work required shifts and pass all plant safety requirements including a drug test.

Skills and Abilities

Strong verbal communication and coaching ability.

Ability to identify quality issues and understand acceptable process tolerances.

Competency in Lock-Out / Tag-Out (LOTO) .

Ability to troubleshoot equipment and support operators in resolving issues.

Strong situational awareness and attention to equipment behavior.

Ability to follow specific instructions while teaching others to do the same.

Strong understanding of productivity, efficiency, and process stability metrics.

Team-oriented, safety-focused, and proactive.

Conduct Expectations

Safety conscious and committed to quality.

Positive, supportive, and collaborative coaching style.

Adaptable, open to change, and driven by process improvement.

Punctual, reliable, and committed to plant and company goals.

Actively participates in Safety and CI programs.

Compensation & Benefit Information

Salary Pay Range :  $24.00-$30.00 per hour dependent on experience

• pay range may be adjusted depending on cost of living and experience level.

Bonus / Incentive Pay :

A discretionary annual bonus based on Company and business unit performance may also be provided.

Benefits currently offered to our employees :

Medical insurance

Health savings account with company contribution

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Basic and voluntary life insurance

Disability insurance

401(k) plan with company match

Paid vacation and holidays

Stock purchase program with employee discount

Educational reimbursement

Wellness programs and challenges

Other supplemental benefits