Production Lead (Mixing)

Rubbercraft is seeking a Production Lead – Rubber Mixing to oversee daily rubber mixing operations within our production environment. This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for driving production efficiency, ensuring product quality, supporting continuous improvement initiatives, and leading a team within the mixing department.

The ideal candidate has strong technical expertise in rubber compounding and mixing processes, experience leading manufacturing teams, and the ability to troubleshoot production and process-related issues in a fast-paced environment.

• Lead daily rubber mixing operations to meet production schedules, quality standards, and customer requirements
• Coordinate workflow and assign tasks to mixing operators and technicians
• Ensure all compound formulations are mixed according to written instructions and established procedures
• Monitor production output, machine utilization, and labor efficiency
• Ensure proper FIFO (First In, First Out) material handling and batch release procedures are followed
• Communicate production priorities, issues, and status updates across shifts and departments

• Serve as the department subject matter expert for rubber compounding and mixing operations
• Troubleshoot process deviations, equipment issues, and compound inconsistencies
• Optimize machine settings and processing parameters to improve throughput, consistency, and scrap reduction
• Lead continuous improvement, Kaizen, and process optimization initiatives
• Partner with Engineering, Quality, and Laboratory teams on new product introductions and process validations

• Verify ingredient weights, batch accuracy, and traceability documentation
• Ensure routers, batch records, and production documentation are completed accurately
• Perform in-process inspections to verify product consistency and quality standards
• Support corrective actions, audits, and compliance with ISO, ASTM, customer, and internal quality requirements
• Assist with material disposition and scrap procedures as needed

• Promote and enforce all safety procedures, PPE requirements, chemical handling protocols, and 5S standards
• Conduct routine safety inspections and maintain a clean, organized production environment
• Train, mentor, and support the development of mixing operators and technicians
• Provide coaching, technical guidance, and day-to-day leadership to the team
• Support scheduling, staffing, and overall department operations

• Monitor raw material inventory levels and coordinate replenishment needs
• Support physical inventory activities
• Assist with cross-functional production support as needed
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned

• High School Diploma or GED required

• Minimum 5+ years of experience in rubber manufacturing and mixing operations required
• Previous lead, supervisory, or team leadership experience in a manufacturing environment preferred
• Strong understanding of rubber compounding, elastomer materials, and mixing processes

• Experience working with internal mixers, open mills, and rubber processing equipment
• Ability to read and follow batch instructions, routers, SOPs, and quality documentation
• Strong leadership, communication, troubleshooting, and organizational skills
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, continuous improvement, or Six Sigma methodologies preferred
• Experience with EPDM, NBR, SBR, Neoprene, NR, FKM, silicone, or related rubber compounds preferred
• Forklift certification and ERP/MRP system experience preferred
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and safety

• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs.
• Ability to stand for extended periods in a manufacturing environment
• Ability to work in hot industrial conditions
• Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity

Benefits:

At Rubbercraft, we recognize how important your career and benefits are to you and your family. We offer a full suite of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability coverage, accident insurance, critical illness insurance, basic and supplemental life insurance, employee assistance plan, retirement savings and matching, and other developmental opportunities. We are committed to supporting the way you live and work.

RCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to complete the application process may contact Human Resources.

This position requires access to information subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Employment is contingent upon the applicant being a “U.S. person” as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15), which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees, as required by U.S. export control laws.