Justin Polak
Clarksville,TN
Summary
Reliable utility and production operator with a background in forklift operation, machine setup, preventive maintenance, and safety compliance. Supports efficient plant output by following work instructions, monitoring equipment, maintaining records, and training new operators on tools, procedures, and safe work practices.
Overview
2
2
Languages
1
1
Certification
34
34
years of professional experience
Work History
Utility Operator
AO SMITH
Ashland City, Tennessee
01.2022 - Current
- Operated plant utility systems supporting AO Smith water heater production.
- - Supported manufacturing work in environment requiring lifting up to 50 pounds.
- - Operated forklift equipment and reviewed blueprints.
- - Brought 3 to 5 years of press machine operation experience.
- - Lifted 50 to 75 pounds with and without lifting device support.
- - Read, understood, and followed work instructions.
- - Supported work safety standards and quality standards.
- - Read tape measures, calipers, and quality measuring tools.
- - Operated various types of press machines to meet production demands..
- - Configured heavy machinery for optimal performance in production environments..
- - Trained new operators on equipment use and safety protocols to ensure compliance and operational readiness.
- - Set up, adjusted, and operated basic and specialized machine tools for precision machining operations.
- - Monitored machines and equipment for malfunctions, identifying necessary adjustments or repairs to prevent downtime.
- Assisted in training new operators on proper use of equipment and safety protocols.
- Inspected equipment for signs of wear or damage and performed maintenance to maintain operational efficiency.
- Prepared reports detailing daily activities related to operation of the utility system.
- Ensured that all safety regulations were adhered to while operating the utility system.
- Maintained accurate records of all operations conducted within the facility.
- Maintained cleanliness around work areas by sweeping floors and cleaning up spills.
- Repaired faulty components in the utility system using hand tools or power tools.
- Operated a variety of manual tools such as drills, saws, hammers and wrenches when performing maintenance tasks.
- Troubleshot problems with electrical systems or mechanical components of the utility system.
- Participated in ongoing training on new technologies and regulations in the utility industry.
Thermoforming Operator
Graphic Packaging International
Clarksville, TN
09.2021 - 10.2022
- Supported strong production output in safe thermoforming operations through accurate material control and close attention to customer specifications.
- Achieved quality and cost targets through efficient changeovers, QA testing, inspection documentation, and prompt responses to production issues.
- Coordinated assistants and packers, covered breaks and lunches, coached employees, and communicated effectively with supervisor, team leader, lead operator, process engineering, and maintenance to enhance team performance.
- Maintained clean, organized, compliant work practices that supported 5S, safety, GMP, food safety, and careful equipment care.
- Entered BMS data accurately for schedule tracking, machine status updates, and reporting for materials, finished goods, and scrap.
- Supported training, certification completion, tool board upkeep, check sheet completion, and assigned plant tasks to strengthen overall operation.
- Handled shafts up to 70 pounds, installed and secured forming and trimming tools, stood for 8-hour shifts, and worked in heat to meet physical job demands.
- Monitored and adjusted machine settings to ensure consistent carton output.
- Monitored machine settings and adjusted controls for consistent carton output.
- Ensured continuous supply of materials to support operations. and kept equipment fed for converting operations.
- Reported equipment problems and supported maintenance troubleshooting.
- Observed and diagnosed equipment and machine issues, then notified appropriate personnel about needed repairs.
- Performed routine equipment maintenance to support optimal performance.
- Monitored and adjusted machine operation for quality assurance.
- Assisted with production line setup based on customer specifications.
- Set up tools, dies, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and related parts for production use.
- Managed multiple tasks at once while maintaining close attention to detail.
- Set up and operated production machinery according to company standards and protocols.
- Reduced health and safety risks through strict compliance with safety protocols and PPE requirements.
- Used daily system logs to record production information and discuss issues with management.
- Used hand trucks and forklifts to load, unload, and transport items.
- Helped meet team goals by rotating production lines and daily duties to support demand.
- Calibrated machines to meet quality standards and required productivity levels.
- Reviewed work orders to determine material type and quantity needed for each production batch.
- Produced quality products by palletizing, packaging, and assembling finished items.
- Met or exceeded target for on-time customer shipments.
- Sorted products by weight, grade, and material size to create final product.
- Organized product components on work tables to support productivity and order.
- Classified defects from finished orders for tracking and statistical review.
- Prepared for work by studying assembly instructions, blueprint specifications, and part lists.
- Checked control panels and gauges during equipment operation.
- Worked with coworkers to complete projects quickly and support business goals.
- Maintained production and quality documentation.
- Maintained organized work area to ensure compliance with safety standards. and equipment clean in line with safety regulations.
- Recorded production details and updated supervisors on line status.
Injection Molding Machine Operator
Amcor Rigid Plastics
Bellevue, Ohio
10.2020 - 07.2021
- Monitor assigned machines in area of responsibility to keep equipment running and support quality product output, including Nissei and related machines.
Inspect product quality during machine operation, spot visual defects, and make adjustments to correct issues.
Report quality concerns and machine issues to proper personnel quickly.
Use customer profiles to confirm finished product meets required specifications.
Troubleshot issues and communicated equipment concerns to the supervisor or maintenance staff.
Maintain organized maintenance logs and reference books, record daily production numbers in SAP, process production tickets, support box making, packer oversight, material movement, preventive maintenance, shift handoff communication, safety compliance, and PPE use. - Monitored cycle settings, temperatures, and pressures during rigid container molding.
- Monitored cycle settings, temperatures, and pressures to ensure optimal conditions for rigid container molding.
- Adjusted machine controls to maintain product quality and line stability.
- Adjusted machine controls to enhance product quality and ensure consistent line stability.
- Sanitized molds thoroughly, hoppers, and work areas to support safe production.
- Document production data including cycle time, reject rate, scrap rate.
- Clean molds prior to use and after each run using appropriate cleaning agents.
- Troubleshoot mechanical issues with injection molds and related equipment.
- Adjust machine settings to optimize product quality and maximize output efficiency.
- Monitor assigned machines in area of responsibility to keep equipment running and support quality product output, including Nissei and related machines.Inspect product quality during machine operation, spot visual defects, and make adjustments to correct issues.Report quality concerns and machine issues to proper personnel quickly.Use customer profiles to confirm finished product meets required specifications.Troubleshoot issues as they arise and share equipment concerns with supervisor or maintenance staff clearly.Maintain organized maintenance logs and reference books, record daily production numbers in SAP, process production tickets, support box making, packer oversight, material movement, preventive maintenance, shift handoff communication, safety compliance, and PPE use.
- Set up and operate injection molding machines to produce plastic parts or products.
- Train new employees on the proper operation of injection molding machines.
- Inspect finished products for defects, such as warping, cracking, voids, and other irregularities.
- Maintain accurate records of production activities including machine settings, cycle times, scrap rates.
- Ensure that all safety protocols are followed in accordance with company policies and procedures.
- Replace worn components on injection molds as needed.
- Monitor the production process, making adjustments as necessary to ensure quality standards are met.
- Evaluate product samples against established quality criteria.
- Suggest improvements to existing processes in order to increase productivity or reduce costs.
- Program computerized controls for specific job requirements.
- Perform preventative maintenance on injection molding equipment.
- Trimmed excess material and reduced waste with precise measurements and execution.
- Troubleshot and repaired equipment, replacing worn pipes, belts and chains to maximize up time and save money on repair costs.
- Maintained high levels of quality standards by closely monitoring progress and effectively streamlining procedures.
- Observed meters and gauges to verify and record temperatures, pressures and press-cycle times.
- Inventoried and recorded quantities of materials and finished products, requisitioning additional supplies.
- Adjusted daily work procedures to meet schedules and maintain product quality standards.
- Replaced damaged molds, chains, or other equipment using hand tools and jib cranes.
- Checked casting equipment at beginning of shift to verify proper machine functionality and resolve identified malfunctions.
- Turned valves and dials of machines to regulate pressure, temperature and speed and feed rates.
- Performed routine preventive maintenance and upkeep of production equipment to maximize performance and minimize downtime.
Maintenance Technician
Energy Development
Oberlin, Ohio
08.2019 - 10.2020
- Reliable operation and maintenance of gas-fired power plant supported continuous performance of multiple 1365 kW spark-ignition reciprocating engines and auxiliary equipment.
Safety compliance remained aligned with federal, state, workplace, and OSHA standards.
Condition checks and maintenance work kept engines, generators, pumps, chillers, valves, instrumentation, and process controls in service.
Completed operational logs, mechanical and electrical reports, well field readings, flaring facility support, housekeeping, on-call coverage, and engine work on Caterpillar 35/20 and Deutz LFG G35 units. - Maintained facility equipment, utilities, and support systems to ensure uninterrupted daily operations.
- Executed scheduled preventive maintenance for motors and pumps to ensure optimal performance. for motors, pumps, and production support equipment.
- Coordinated with supervisors and staff on urgent facility repair priorities.
- Coordinated with supervisors and staff to prioritize and address urgent facility repairs efficiently.
- Trained new maintenance workers on procedures, safety, and equipment care.
- Operated hand and power tools to complete repairs.
- Maintained cleanliness of work areas to ensure safety and compliance with health standards. to maintain a safe environment free from debris or hazardous materials.
- Cleared clogged drains and replaced valves, faucets, and fixtures.
- Cleaned work areas to maintain a safe environment free from debris or hazardous materials.
- Repaired or replaced faulty wiring, switches, relays, and other electrical components.
- Replaced defective parts such as bearings, seals, gears, valves.
- Installed new systems, replacement parts, and components to maintain proper operation.
- Performed preventive maintenance tasks, including lubrication and cleaning of machines and equipment.
- Inspected grounds and buildings to identify, minimize and correct hazardous property conditions or liability concerns.
- Diagnosed mechanical problems using visual inspections and test instruments.
- Assisted in the installation of new machinery and equipment.
- Read and interpreted equipment and work orders to properly perform required maintenance services.
- Collaborated with building managers to assess ongoing needs and plan preventive maintenance schedules.
- Responded to personnel queries and troubleshooting requests to provide repair services to improve operations.
- Troubleshot complex electrical and mechanical issues with minimal downtime.
- Disassembled appliances to diagnose problems and facilitate repairs.
- Changed HVAC filters and cleaned condensation drains to perform preventive maintenance on HVAC systems.
- Routinely inspected plant equipment for signs of wear or malfunctioning parts.
- Adjusted machine settings according to manufacturing specifications.
- Installed new pumps, compressors, boilers and other mechanical systems.
- Trained junior technicians on best practices for machine operation and repair.
- Repaired machines, equipment or structures using tools or equipment.
- Ordered parts, supplies or equipment from catalogs or suppliers.
- Cleaned or lubricated shafts, bearings or other parts of machinery.
- Inspected, operated or tested machinery or equipment to diagnose machine malfunctions.
- Adjusted devices or control instruments using hand tools, levels or straightedges.
- Assembled, installed or repaired electrical or electronic components and pipe systems.
- Installed equipment to improve energy or operational efficiency of residential or commercial buildings.
- Aligned and balanced new equipment after installation.
- Planned and laid out repair work using diagrams, drawings or schematic diagrams.
- Calibrated instruments used in testing processes to ensure accuracy of results.
- Conducted performance and safety inspections on equipment and machinery to maintain operational baseline.
Line Operator
Tower International
Bellevue, Ohio
08.2018 - 08.2019
- Operated automotive assembly line equipment for Tower International production processes.
- Completed 15+ operations during 12-hour shifts, contributing to optimal cycle time and workflow.
- Supported smooth line flow through correct placement of parts and product at workstation positions.
- Handled frames and parts by securely positioning loads during lifting processes. and parts accurately by keeping loads up to 55 lbs positioned during lift, push, and pull tasks.
- Supported customer satisfaction through quality checks aligned with products and services.
- Corrected blow-through burns and improper welds, enhancing overall weld quality and production standards.
- Worked with maintenance personnel, basic quality management system standards, environmental management system standards, on-time daily task completion, and safe tow motor operation in small areas to provide reliable production support.
- Inspected parts for defects to ensure compliance with Tower International quality standards, reducing potential quality issues.
- Adjusted machine settings during line changeovers and product shifts.
- Followed safety procedures while handling tools and production materials.
- Recorded production details and quality checks on Tower International line logs.
- Reported line issues to supervisors and maintenance staff promptly.
- Maintained clean and safe work environment by following all safety protocols.
- Trained new employees on proper machine use and safety procedures.
- Inspected finished products for defects before packaging for shipment.
- Recorded daily production data accurately into company database systems.
- Kept line material levels within required limits to meet production goals.
- Worked with team members to improve efficiency of line operations.
- Improved production quality by inspecting, calibrating, and adjusting equipment to stay within optimal operational parameters.
- Set up and operated production equipment according to current good manufacturing practices and standard operating procedures.
- Read and followed job orders to meet product specifications, acceptable tolerances, general specifications, and required production sequences.
- Adjusted machine settings to optimize product quality, speed, and output levels.
- Operated multiple pieces of equipment during peak production times.
- Repaired and maintained production machinery to keep lines running smoothly.
- Maintained accurate inventory records for raw materials, work in process, and finished products.
- Loaded and unloaded items from machines, conveyors, and conveyances.
- Troubleshot shift issues using problem-solving skills.
- Calibrated tools and gauges used in manufacturing processes according to standard procedures.
- Received incoming shipments of materials for production runs and stored them safely.
- Reviewed test results and made adjustments as needed to improve product quality standards.
- Set up and operated production equipment in accordance with established guidelines.
- Identified process improvement opportunities and recommended solutions.
- Positioned, adjusted, and secured stock material or workpieces against stops or on arbors with hoists.
- Developed new techniques to improve efficiency within Tritanium Forge facility.
- Reviewed blueprints and schematics of forged components before production runs.
- Attached identification labels to finished packaged items or stamped lot number and shipping destination information on containers.
- Received incoming shipments and verified contents against purchase order for accuracy.
Maintenance Supervisor
US Army
El Paso, Texas
06.1992 - 04.2018
- Established maintenance operations processes during startup and ongoing work across all maintenance areas to enhance workflow efficiency.
- Supported rollout of Global Combat Support System-Army (GCSS-Army) hazmat procedures and safety programs.
- Worked with management to set policies and procedures; trained employees on hazmat inspection, handling, and certification; built orientation training and incentive programs.
- Supervised Army maintenance teams for vehicles, generators, and support equipment.
- Scheduled preventive maintenance and repairs across motor pool operations.
- Applied maintenance standards, technical manuals, and inspection requirements.
- Trained soldiers on maintenance procedures and shop safety practices.
- Reviewed work orders, assigned resources, set tasks, and established job priorities.
- Scheduled repair and maintenance for machines, tools, and equipment to support continuous production operations.
- Diagnosed equipment issues and completed repairs to return equipment to service and maintain uptime.
- Supervised technicians on repair and installation of machines or systems according to manufacturer's specifications.
- Guided team completion of job tasks quickly and accurately using proper instruments and tools.
- Kept repair records and parts inventory usage to improve future planning.
- Designed, fabricated, and installed equipment upgrades to improve existing machinery.
- Directed maintenance activities to support continuous supply of heat, electric power, or gas required for operations.
- Inspected alarm systems and monitors for fire, carbon monoxide, and other safety standards.
- Prepared and tracked budget to keep maintenance department financially sound.
- Developed preventive maintenance program for all production machinery to ensure operational efficiency.
- Researched new products and services to improve company's ability to stay competitive in industry.
- Reviewed project blueprints and specifications to determine staffing needs for jobs.
- Monitored employee workload and improved performance through targeted work methods.
- Provided leadership insight and mentoring to new hires on company programs and expectations.
- Built and implemented safety procedures to meet OSHA regulations.
- Created detailed reports on machine downtime, root cause analysis, and cost-saving initiatives to inform decision-making and improve production efficiency.
- Prepared budgets for upcoming projects using estimated labor costs and materials needed.
Education
Universal Certification - HVAC/R Entry Level Technician
Vocational Training Institute
Phoenix, AZ11-2022
Ford certification - welding
Terra Tech College
Fremont, OH01-2019
General studies - Criminal Justice
BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Barton, KS06-2008
Skills
- Utility connections
- Electrical troubleshooting
- Welding operations
- Welding techniques
- Machine operation
- Heavy equipment operation
- Crane operation
- Forklift operation
- Power tools proficiency
- Pneumatic tool proficiency
- Pump operations
- Preventive maintenance
- Quality assurance and control
- Industrial safety
- Maintenance records
- Mechanical aptitude
- Logistics management
- Inventory management
- Vendor management
- Motor vehicle operation
- Multi-machine operation
- Time management
- Team development
- Chemical handling
- Lockout/tagout procedures
Certification
Defense Distribution Management Course, Support Operation Course, Shipment Planning & General Supplies, Supervisor Development Course, Parts Management and Depot Maintenance, Defense Hazardous Materials Handling Course, Maintenance Management Development, Management Development Course
Of Note
US ARMY awards: Bronze star, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Valorous Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Superior Unit Award, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Global War on Expeditionary Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon, NATO Medal, Driver and Mechanic Badge, Marksmanship Qualification Badge.
Key Results
- Devised creative and cost-effective incentive by turning in over 2,500 lines of serviceable and recoverable parts that saved the Army $1.3 Million which increased employee satisfaction and productivity
- Cross-trained various mechanics (generator mechanic, ac mechanic, chemical equipment repairer) to be more efficient vehicle maintainers and to improve their mechanical skills
- Provided valuable surveillance information to the International Contract Corruption Task Force that recovered more than $10 million of lost or stolen fuel
- Registered over 33,553 assets through the Joint Movement Control Battalion decreasing the amount of theft and fraud by 50%
- Improved invoice and mission cost analysis resulted in a more efficient turnaround to the carriers and saved the US Government over five million dollars in transportation
- Ensured three contractors, 46 subcontractors, and all their transportation assets were in compliance within the United States Government and Afghan Government standards
- Charged with the fuel suite, with due diligence ensured contractor performance reducing the overall fuel pilferage rate by 70% over the like of the National Afghan Trucking (NAT) contract
Languages
Tagalog
Limited
Korean
Elementary
Timeline
Utility Operator
AO SMITH
01.2022 - Current
Thermoforming Operator
Graphic Packaging International
09.2021 - 10.2022
Injection Molding Machine Operator
Amcor Rigid Plastics
10.2020 - 07.2021
Maintenance Technician
Energy Development
08.2019 - 10.2020
Line Operator
Tower International
08.2018 - 08.2019
Maintenance Supervisor
US Army
06.1992 - 04.2018
Universal Certification - HVAC/R Entry Level Technician
Vocational Training Institute
Ford certification - welding
Terra Tech College
General studies - Criminal Justice
BARTON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE