Grader (Inspector II)

YOUR TASKS

This role is responsible for grading, classifying, and ensuring the quality of tires according to Continental Tire’s global standards, while also operating specialized equipment, recording quality data, and addressing non-conformities. It includes maintaining safety and environmental compliance, supporting continuous improvement initiatives, and collaborating within team performance systems.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

• Rotate to other shifts as needed
• Execute tire grading to ensure product quality level compliance with Continental Tire WW standards
• Responsible for the classification and grading of tires after visual inspection or rework and decide on next process step
• Responsible for the classification of off-standard tires and decide on final disposition
• Input quality related data in grading system
• Take the necessary actions in case of non-conformities (inform relevant people, stop curing press, blocking of tires, etc.)
• Scan and evaluate the status of tires returned to grading after tire uniformity, balancing, weighing, and over inspection
• Responsible for the classification of off-standard tires from the above areas and decide on final disposition
• Responsible for operating the bead heating machines
• Follow the internal ESH work instructions in the daily work 
• Demonstrate exemplary personal behavior in ESH and motivate others 
• Ensure immediate notification and response, and initiate preventive measures in case of unsafe or polluting hazards 
• Know/understand Continental Tire WW semi-product off-standards catalogue and QMS standards (ISO/TS16949, CCC, etc.)
• Support the Continental Business System (CBS) structure by participating in the applicable CBT meeting, reviewing and managing his/her/team performance, conducting simple problem-solving using action sheets, identifying and implementing improvement opportunities, participating in the CBT reviews, and taking ownership for presented parts of the team boards
• Be self-managed, detail-oriented, and capable of performing under pressure
• Follow all plant, ESH, CBS, quality, and department processes and procedures
• Other duties as assigned

NOTE: May not be inclusive of all work required and may be updated as needed.

THE ENVIRONMENT

• Safety is our highest priority and safety procedures / guidelines must be always adhered to. This includes safety wear such as hearing protection, safety shoes, safety glasses (as needed)
• 12-hour 2-2-3 pattern (panama) shift and can be either days or nights depending on business need. The shift includes every other weekend and overtime as needed
• The training schedule is different than the panama schedule. It is typically a Monday through Friday 8 hour shift for up to a couple months then a panama shift is assigned 
• You may be exposed to forklift and pedestrian traffic and noise
• The role involves various physical tasks, including bending, climbing, heavy lifting and standing for long periods of time
• This role starts at $21.32 an hour. Pay may change for internals depending on current hourly rate

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE ROLE

• High school diploma or GED
• One or more years' experience in manufacturing
• Must be able to work assigned shift for this position
• Must be able to pass titmus vision exam & color vision exam
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas now or in the future for this job posting
• No relocation assistance is offered for this position

ADDITIONAL WAYS TO STAND OUT

• Current Continental Sumter employee

THE PERKS

• Immediate Benefits 
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition Assistance
• Employee Discounts, including tire discounts
• Competitive Bonus Programs
• Employees 401k Match
• Diverse & Inclusive Work Environment
• Employee Assistance Program
• Future Growth Opportunities, including personal and professional
• And many more benefits that come with working for a global industry leader!

EEO-Statement:

EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Continental offers equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, without regard to unlawful consideration to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. In addition, as a federal contractor, Continental complies with government regulations, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals with a disability and protected veterans, where they apply. To be considered, you must apply for a specific position for which Continental has a current posted job opening. Qualifying applications will be considered only for the specific opening(s) to which you apply. If you would like to be considered for additional or future job openings, we encourage you to reapply for other opportunities as they become available. Further, Continental provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance in the application process, please reply to Careers@conti-na.com or contact US Recruiting at 800-821-2727. This telephone line and email address are reserved solely for job seekers with disabilities requesting accessibility assistance or an accommodation in the job application process. Please do not call about the status of your job application, if you do not require accessibility assistance or an accommodation. Messages left for other purposes, such as following up on an application or non-disability related technical issues, will not receive a call back.

Ready to drive with Continental? Take the first step and fill in the online application.

Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated preliminary sales of €41.4 billion and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets.

With its premium portfolio in the car, truck, bus, two-wheel and specialty tire segment, the Tires group sector stands for innovative solutions in tire technology. Intelligent products and services related to tires and the promotion of sustainability complete the product portfolio. For specialist dealers and fleet management, Tires offers digital tire monitoring and tire management systems, in addition to other services, with the aim of keeping fleets mobile and increasing their efficiency. With its tires, Continental makes a significant contribution to safe, efficient and environmentally friendly mobility. 

Continental Tire has been around for over 150 years, we’ve been changing the way the world moves while making it more safe, smart, sustainable and accessible to all. Our Sumter, SC location is seeking graders to join our quality department on the shop floor. 

Are you ready to shape the future with us?