PRESS OPERATOR

Charge Presser and Packout Operator
 

Job Summary

The Charge Presser and Packout Operator is responsible for preparing, pressing, inspecting, and packaging explosive charges in accordance with established safety procedures, work orders, and quality control standards. This role requires strict adherence to safety protocols, accuracy in handling explosive materials, and attention to detail during both the presser and packout stages of production.

Key Responsibilities

Charge Presser Duties

• Wear and maintain required PPE (safety glasses, ear plugs, steel toe shoes).
• Review daily work orders with Supervisor/Lead to determine job assignments, required charges, and materials.
• Prepare charge cases by inspecting for defects, ensuring proper stickers, and traying cases into egg cartons.
• Weigh and load explosive powders using certified scales and approved scoops/dippers.
• Verify correct dies, loading pressures, and liners per work order.
• Apply glyptal paint to liners, allow proper drying time, and install liners into charges.
• Operate charge press machinery safely, ensuring proper pressure is applied and charges meet quality standards.
• Inspect pressed charges for defects, including cracked liners, cracked cases, or improper liner seating.
• Deliver charges for packout after completing required lot quantities (e.g., 400 charges).
• Provide quality control with test charges for each new lot.

Packout Duties

• Verify job information, quantities, and customer requirements against work orders.
• Print and apply correct box labels, stickers, and hazardous labels.
• Inspect charges for defects and segregate any nonconforming items.
• Apply glyptal sealant to charges, allow drying, and prepare for packing.
• Assemble packing materials (pads, dividers, staples, foil bags, desiccants) to package charges safely.
• Use strapping machine and sealing iron to secure charges and ensure airtight packaging.
• Complete final boxing, sealing, and labeling with hazardous classification stickers.
• Double-check labels for accuracy prior to shipment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
• Prior experience in a manufacturing or production environment (explosives experience preferred but not required).
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality standards.
• Mechanical aptitude for operating production equipment.
• Ability to work safely with hazardous materials and follow OSHA/ATF safety standards.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and stand for extended periods.
• Manual dexterity to handle small components and operate machinery.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, chemicals, and explosives (with proper PPE).

Key Competencies

• Safety-oriented mindset
• Attention to detail
• Team collaboration
• Quality awareness
• Reliability and punctuality