Fuller Operator

POSITION SUMMARY

The Fuller Operator is responsible for safely operating fulling mills and processing wool fabric according to production specifications and established work instructions. This position loads, positions, monitors, and unloads fabric; makes routine operating adjustments; verifies processing and quality requirements; and maintains clean, safe, and efficient work areas within the Finish Department.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB

• Move wet and dry fabric, rolls, pallets, carts, skids, and other materials using approved material-handling equipment.
• Review and follow set tickets, production specifications, work instructions, and quality requirements for assigned fabric.
• Prepare, load, position, and unload fabric in fulling mills and related equipment.
• Operate fulling machinery safely and efficiently in accordance with established operating procedures.
• Monitor fabric and machine operation throughout the fulling process to ensure proper processing and material flow.
• Make routine machine and process adjustments, within established operating parameters, to meet production specifications.
• Inspect fabric during and after processing for appearance, condition, shrinkage, dimensions, or other required quality specifications.
• Identify and promptly report product defects, processing concerns, equipment problems, or safety issues to supervision.
• Sew or join fabric as required for processing using approved industrial sewing equipment and methods.
• Accurately complete required production, set-ticket, lot, and quality documentation.
• Perform routine operator cleaning and minor operator maintenance on assigned equipment as directed.
• Clean machines and surrounding work areas throughout the shift and maintain established housekeeping and 5S standards.
• Follow all safety rules, procedures, Lockout/Tagout requirements, and required personal protective equipment (PPE) standards.
• Support department production needs through flexibility, teamwork, and cross-training as assigned.

BEHAVIORAL

• Demonstrates reliability and accountability in attendance and job performance.
• Follows direction and consistently adheres to established procedures, specifications, and safety standards.
• Maintains attention to detail and accuracy while processing and inspecting fabric.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, leads, and team members.
• Works independently while contributing positively to team and department goals.
• Demonstrates flexibility and willingness to learn additional processes and equipment.
• Maintains a clean, organized, respectful, and productive workplace.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous manufacturing, textile, or related production experience preferred.
• Ability to learn and safely operate fulling mills and related Finish Department equipment.
• Ability to learn and safely perform industrial sewing operations used in fabric processing; previous industrial sewing experience preferred.
• Ability to read and follow production specifications, set tickets, work instructions, and quality requirements.
• Ability to perform basic math and measurement tasks required for the position.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify fabric, processing, and quality concerns.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions and communicate effectively with supervision and coworkers.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a production environment.
• Or any equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions of the job.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.

• Frequently bends, twists, reaches, crouches, kneels, and uses repetitive hand, wrist, arm, and shoulder movements while handling fabric and operating equipment.
• Frequently pushes, pulls, lifts, guides, and maneuvers wet and dry fabric, carts, skids, and pallets; heavier loads require assistance or approved material-handling equipment.

• Ability to safely handle heavy weights of wet cloth with assistance and appropriate equipment.
• Frequent use of fine and gross manual dexterity to load, position, sew, adjust, and handle fabric and equipment.
• Requires sustained visual attention to monitor fabric condition, processing, and quality requirements.
• Frequent exposure to a manufacturing environment may include noise, dust, lint, heat, moisture, chemicals, and moving machinery.
• Required use of appropriate PPE, which may include hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, and safety footwear.