Kurtis Blake
Tuscaloosa,AL
Summary
Dedicated Machine Operator with a strong background in effective communication and problem-solving. Proven ability to train staff on best practices while ensuring adherence to safety protocols. Ready to leverage skills in process optimization to drive productivity and quality.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Machine Operator
Coral Industries
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
02.2024 - 04.2025
- Operated machinery to produce high-quality products efficiently.
- Maintained equipment by performing routine inspections and basic repairs.
- Followed safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment for all employees.
- Loaded and unloaded materials for production, ensuring adherence to handling protocols for quality assurance.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve production schedules and maintain workflow efficiency.
- Monitored machine performance and adjusted settings to optimize operations and prevent downtime.
- Documented production data accurately for compliance and quality assurance purposes.
- Assisted in training new operators on best practices and machinery usage.
- Adjust machine settings to complete tasks accurately.
- Observe machine operations to detect any problems or defects in the finished product.
- Carry out regular safety checks on machinery prior to operation.
- Comply with company policies regarding quality control procedures.
- Monitor the feed and speed of machines during the machining process.
- Inspect finished workpieces to ensure conformance with specifications.
- Verified production orders prior to starting set-up.
- Trained personnel on safe handling procedures for hazardous materials used during production processes.
- Performed daily inspections of plant systems to identify potential problems.
- Promoted efficient operation of production processes through careful control system monitoring
Machine Operator
Brose Tuscaloosa
Vance, Alabama
03.2024 - 11.2024
- Operated machinery to achieve consistent production of high-quality products.
- Adjust machine settings to complete tasks accurately.
- Monitored production line for pile-ups and jams, ensuring smooth workflow.
- Troubleshot equipment malfunctions, restoring operational efficiency promptly.
- Observe machine operations to detect any problems or defects in the finished product.
- Maintained equipment by performing routine inspections and basic repairs.
- Followed safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment for all employees.
- Identify areas where improvements can be made in terms of efficiency or cost savings.
Machine Operator
Mercedes-Benz United States International
Vance, Alabama
03.2023 - 11.2023
- Operated machinery to produce high-quality products efficiently.
- Maintained equipment by performing routine inspections and basic repairs.
- Followed safety protocols to ensure a safe working environment for all employees.
- Loaded and unloaded materials for production, ensuring proper handling techniques.
- Collaborated with team members to consistently meet production schedules and deadlines.
- Monitored machine performance and made adjustments during operations.
- Documented production data to ensure compliance and support quality assurance efforts.
- Assisted in training new operators on best practices and machinery usage.
- Adjust machine settings to complete tasks accurately.
- Observe machine operations to detect any problems or defects in the finished product.
- Inspect finished workpieces to ensure conformance with specifications.
- Perform periodic maintenance on machines such as cleaning and lubrication.
- Monitored and observed production line to watch for pile-ups and jams.
- Troubleshoot malfunctions in equipment or processes.
- Verified production orders prior to starting set-up.
- Identify areas where improvements can be made in terms of efficiency or cost savings.
- Read blueprints and job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions.
- Trained new operators and developed division operator training program, enhancing retention rates and supporting increased production.
- Performed daily inspections of plant systems, identifying potential problems and taking corrective action as needed.
- Promoted efficient operation of production processes through careful control system monitoring
Server Trainer
Side by Side Restaurant
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
03.2015 - 03.2023
- Trained new staff on service standards and procedures to enhance team performance.
- Delivered exceptional customer service in high-volume dining environments.
- Served food and drinks to customers in a timely manner.
- Resolved guest complaints promptly to enhance customer satisfaction.
- Resolved customer complaints professionally while maintaining a friendly attitude towards patrons.
- Provided customer service to ensure satisfaction throughout their dining experience.
- Welcomed customers to property and offered immediate assistance with needs.
- Assisted guests by promptly responding to questions, requests and concerns.
- Supported team during special events, ensuring smooth operations.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to coordinate timely food service.
- Coordinated with kitchen staff for timely preparation and delivery of orders, improving guest satisfaction.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of dining areas and equipment.
- Implemented safety protocols to maintain a secure work environment.
- Ensured compliance with health codes related to food preparation, storage, handling and sanitation standards.
- Maintained facility condition by performing regular cleaning and maintenance tasks.
- Managed daily inventory, ensuring adequate supplies for uninterrupted operations.
- Monitored inventory levels for all items used in the hospitality area.
- Supported team operations by keeping supplies well-stocked and stations ready for guest service.
- Maintained knowledge of daily specials and promotions offered by the restaurant.
- Took orders accurately and communicated them to the kitchen staff promptly.
- Prepared entrees, side dishes, and desserts for guests during busy periods.
- Served alcoholic beverages to guests, ensuring proper age verification.
- Handled alcohol service for guests over the age of 21.
- Performed cashiering duties such as taking payments from customers using POS systems or manual methods.
- Facilitated smooth communication between different departments to address guest needs efficiently.
- Assisted in training new hospitality workers on proper procedures for providing quality customer service.
- Conducted regular training on hospitality trends and customer service best practices.
- Answered questions regarding menu items, special offers and other restaurant information.
- Enhanced guest experiences by recommending local attractions and dining options.
- Organized special events such as banquets or corporate functions according to guest specifications.
- Oversaw banquet setup, coordination, and breakdown for events, adhering to client specifications.
- Minimized risks to guests by strictly following sanitizing procedures for different areas.
- Managed reservations for guests who wished to dine at the restaurant.
- Prepared basic food service by setting up continental breakfast or coffee and tea supplies.
Executive Server
Davidson Chophouse
Tuscaloosa, AL
04.2018 - 06.2021
- Oversaw daily operations to ensure efficient service and customer satisfaction.
- Managed staff schedules and training programs to optimize team efficiency and service quality.
- Developed and implemented standard operating procedures for food safety, ensuring compliance with health regulations.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly, maintaining a positive dining experience.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to streamline menu offerings and inventory management.
- Facilitated communication between front-of-house and back-of-house teams for smooth operations.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly to maintain a positive dining experience.
- Analyzed market trends to inform menu adjustments and promotional strategies.
- Established and maintained relationships with key partners and vendors to support successful project execution.
- Organized and facilitated regular meetings with senior management teams.
- Led initiatives to improve customer service levels throughout the organization.
- Used excellent verbal skills to engage customers in conversation and effectively determine needs and requirements.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
- Used strong issue resolution and communication skills to cultivate and strengthen lasting client relationships.
- Formed and sustained strategic relationships with clients.
- Implemented campaigns and promotions to help with developing goods and services.
- Provided leadership, insight and mentoring to newly hired employees to supply knowledge of various company programs.
- Mitigated business risks by working closely with staff members and assessing performance.
- Completed thorough opening, closing, and shift change functions to maintain operational standards each day.
- Provided attentive service to guests in a high-end dining environment.
- Handled customer requests and complaints with professionalism and care.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely food preparation and delivery.
- Processed transactions accurately using point-of-sale systems and cash handling procedures.
- Assisted in training new servers on best practices and restaurant policies.
- Ensured cleanliness and organization of dining area before, during, and after service.
- Provided excellent customer service to ensure satisfaction.
- Performed opening and closing duties such as setting up the dining area, restocking supplies.
- Provided exceptional service to a high volume of daily customers.
- Took orders from customers accurately and in a timely manner.
- Handled money transactions accurately while following company procedures for handling cash payments.
- Operated POS terminals to input orders, split bills, and calculate totals.
- Greeted customers, answered questions, and recommended specials to increase profits.
- Displayed enthusiasm and knowledge about the restaurant's menu and products.
- Responded efficiently to guest inquiries and complaints in a professional manner.
- Communicated with hosts, bussers, and kitchen staff to prepare for and serve customers.
- Communicated effectively with kitchen staff regarding customer allergies or special requests.
- Delivered food orders promptly and courteously.
- Cleaned tables and chairs to prepare dining area for next customers.
- Assisted in training new servers.
- Collaborated with other restaurant staff members to ensure efficient operations within the restaurant environment.
- Greeted guests and provided menus.
- Followed health safety guidelines when preparing and serving food products.
- Promoted desserts, appetizers, and specialty drinks to optimize sales.
- Stayed informed about daily specials, new menu items, promotions.
- Trained new employees on restaurant procedures and plating techniques.
- Addressed complaints to kitchen staff and served replacement items.
- Arranged place settings with clean tablecloths, napkins and tableware to prepare for incoming guests.
- Enforced minimum age requirements for consumption of alcoholic beverages by checking identification.
- Prepared drinks according to standard recipes.
- Explained menu options to guests, offered suggestions and took orders for food and beverages.
- Implemented feedback from customers to improve service quality and menu offerings.
- Stocked service areas with supplies during slow periods.
- Explained menu items, describing ingredients and cooking methods upon request.
- Informed customers of daily specials and signature menu items.
- Prepared checks, itemizing total meal costs and taxes.
- Took reservations and to-go orders to streamline process for both customer and restaurant.
- Set up tables in between patrons to reduce wait times.
- Checked identification to verify if guests meet the minimum age to legally purchase or consume alcoholic beverages.
FOH Trainer
Jim N Nicks Bar-B-Q
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
03.2015 - 04.2018
- Trained front-of-house staff on restaurant policies and procedures, guest service techniques and communication skills to promote positive experiences.
- Conducted on-the-job training sessions with newly hired FOH employees.
- Facilitated onboarding sessions for new employees to ensure compliance.
- Developed training materials to enhance staff understanding of customer service.
- Coordinated ongoing training workshops to improve team skills and efficiency.
- Conducted performance assessments to identify staff training needs and enhance service quality.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations of FOH staff to identify areas of improvement.
- Designed exercises and role playing scenarios to help FOH staff practice customer service techniques.
- Collaborated with management to develop strategies that improved customer satisfaction.
- Monitored service flow during peak hours to provide real-time support.
- Participated in weekly meetings with senior management teams to provide updates on current projects or initiatives being undertaken by the organization.
- Created reports to document trainee progress and support onboarding effectiveness.
- Mentored and trained new team members, helping to build confidence and demonstrate proper ways to complete job tasks.
- Ensured compliance with all applicable state and federal laws related to employee safety and health regulations.
- Sanitized kitchen equipment and utensils to maintain hygiene standards.
- Consistently maintained high levels of cleanliness, organization, storage and sanitation of food and beverage products to ensure quality.
- Observed food safety and sanitation protocols to reduce germ spread.
- Prepared a variety of foods according to exact instructions and recipe specifications.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
- Monitored safety procedures and equipment to ensure a safe working environment.
- Clarified goals and expectations for trainees to enhance their understanding.
Education
Wellness Education - Exercise And Health
Shelton State Community College
Tuscaloosa, AL04-2007
Skills
- Effective communication
- Manufacturing experience
- Machining standards
- Tooling selection
- Part positioning
- Equipment maintenance
- Production monitoring
- Quality assurance
- Safety compliance
- Process optimization
- Machinery cleaning
- Inventory management
- Time management
- Modifications and adjustments
- Team collaboration
- Analytical skills
- Machine operation
- Problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Machine operation
- Team collaboration
- Modifications and adjustments
- Machinery cleaning
- Food safety compliance
- Customer service
- Quality control
- Workflow optimization
- Effective communication
- Conflict resolution
- Training and mentoring
- Allergy awareness
- Salesmanship
- Cleanliness
- Table setting
- Phone etiquette
- Reservation management
- Payment processing
- Seating arrangements
- Special requests handling
- Personal hygiene
- Professional appearance
- Promoting specials
- Point of sale systems
- High volume dining
- Nutritional knowledge
- Catering operations
- Knife handling
- Staff training
- Team leadership
- Continuous improvement
- Menu memorization
- Bar terminology
- Daily specials memorization
Timeline
Machine Operator
Brose Tuscaloosa
03.2024 - 11.2024
Machine Operator
Coral Industries
02.2024 - 04.2025
Machine Operator
Mercedes-Benz United States International
03.2023 - 11.2023
Executive Server
Davidson Chophouse
04.2018 - 06.2021
Server Trainer
Side by Side Restaurant
03.2015 - 03.2023
FOH Trainer
Jim N Nicks Bar-B-Q
03.2015 - 04.2018
Wellness Education - Exercise And Health
Shelton State Community College