Machine Operator

Stanfield's Ltd. – Sock Manufacturing Operations
Location:
Stanfield's Ltd.
1 Logan Street, Truro, Nova ScotiaNight Shift: 7:00 p.m. – 7:00 a.m., Monday night to Friday morning (4, 12 hour shifts)
Stanfield's Ltd. is currently hiring for multiple full-time contract manufacturing positions within our Sock Department. We are seeking motivated, detail-oriented individuals to join our production team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Available OpportunitiesToe Closure Operator / Turner – Sock DepartmentKnitting Machine OperatorWashing & Boarding Operator – Sock Department Applicants may be considered for one or more roles based on skills, experience, and operational requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Toe Closure OperationsReceive knit sock batches from Knitting Operations and place bundles in designated bins.Perform toe closure using manual or automatic sewing machines.Properly load socks into automatic toe-closing machines to prevent jams or damage.Inspect at least one sock per bundle for seam quality and defects (e.g., skipped stitches, holes).Use specified thread colours and change thread as required.Ensure thread paths and eyelets are correctly set.Clean toe-closing machines as required to ensure safe operation and consistent quality. Turning OperationsReceive completed sock batches from the Sewing Supervisor.Load sock bundles into turning machine bins.Cut ties and load socks onto turning machine tubes to turn socks right-side out.Monitor product condition and identify visible defects.Clean turning machines as required. Knitting Machine Operation & SetupOperate assigned hosiery knitting machines in accordance with machine tags (QST 110).Verify machine tags for accuracy (machine number, yarn type, lot number, style, colour, and size).Ensure machines run automatically and drop finished socks into designated containers.Maintain yarn inventory using FIFO (First-In, First-Out) principles. Machine Maintenance & TroubleshootingPerform preventative maintenance and routine cleaning, including blowing down machines at least three times per shift.Monitor machines for operational issues and report concerns promptly.Communicate equipment issues to mechanics or supervisors and ensure machines are not restarted until resolved.Maintain working knowledge of machine assembly, disassembly, and adjustment. Washing & Drying OperationsReceive work trucks of socks for washing.Load washing machines with correct sock quantities, water, steam, and chemicals.Follow posted wash formulas and monitor wash cycles.Inspect socks for colour bleeding, whiteness, and appearance.Transfer socks to extractors and dryers and operate equipment per specifications.Unload dryers and prepare socks for the next production stage. Boarding OperationsSet boarding machine speed, temperature, and size forms according to style requirements.Load socks properly onto boarding forms, ensuring alignment and flat lay.Monitor and adjust boarding processes to meet quality standards.Inspect boarding forms for damage or burrs.Load boarded socks into work trucks and segregate defective items. Quality Control & DocumentationMonitor quality throughout all stages of production.Identify and report nonconforming product to the Supervisor.Ensure only acceptable product advances to the next process.Complete piecework tickets and record clock numbers accurately.Assist with NCR tagging and nonconforming product procedures per QMS-08. Safety, Compliance & HousekeepingPerform all duties safely and in compliance with company Health & Safety policies.Follow work instructions, procedures, and quality management requirements.Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.Perform other duties as assigned by Management. Education & ExperienceHigh school or college diploma, or equivalent experience.Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment preferred.Ability to work under time constraints with minimal supervision. Skills & CompetenciesProven mechanical aptitude.Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.Effective organizational, interpersonal, and time-management skills.Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.Basic English reading, oral, and written communication skills. Working ConditionsTravel: NoneEnvironment: 100% plant-basedPhysical Demands: Moderate to high intensity; walking, sitting, lifting up to 35 lbs regularly, visual accuracy, and sustained focusMental Effort: Moderate, with occasional higher levels of concentration required

---