1ST SHIFT SET UP OPERATOR

Smalley; Lake Zurich (IL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401k match

Life insurance

Tuition reimbursement

PTO

Career growth

Training & development

Job summary

Smalley is hiring a Set-Up Operator in the Manufacturing Department to build a skilled career through a structured training path. Manufacturing or mechanical experience is preferred, but we welcome candidates with a positive attitude, mechanical aptitude, willingness to learn, and growth mindset.

The program starts with a two-week onboarding covering measuring tools, inspections, documentation, Factory Track, safety, quality, and manufacturing expectations, followed by a six-week hands-on

Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude and interest in hands-on work.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Experience in manufacturing or related environment preferred.
• Experience measuring parts with precision instruments (micrometers, digital calipers) preferred.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to pass basic math and English exam.
• Authorized to work in the US on a permanent basis.

Responsibilities

• Learn and perform machine setup activities using established safety, quality, and production procedures.
• Select and identify proper tooling and prepare equipment for production.
• Use measuring tools, including calipers and micrometers, to verify dimensions and quality.
• Complete required documentation and use Factory Track accurately.
• Troubleshoot setup issues, make appropriate adjustments, and verify results.
• Maintain a safe, organized work area and demonstrate dependable attendance.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Positive attitude

Willingness to learn

Communication skills

Authorized to work in US

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Job description

About Us

Smalley is the global manufacturing leader of precision metal formed products – known for our Spirolox® retaining rings and Crest-to- Crest® wave springs. Our success is propelled by our inventive spirit, devoted team members, extensive engineering proficiency, and technical ability, cultivated by over 100 years of manufacturing excellence. We supply to industries including aerospace, automotive, medical, energy, robotics and industrial machinery – supporting over 70% of the Fortune 500 global manufacturers. We are proud of our commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality products, relentless pursuit of improvement, and unwavering dedication to providing excellent service to our valued customers.

About Us

Smalley is the global manufacturing leader of precision metal formed products – known for our Spirolox® retaining rings and Crest-to- Crest® wave springs. Our success is propelled by our inventive spirit, devoted team members, extensive engineering proficiency, and technical ability, cultivated by over 100 years of manufacturing excellence. We supply to industries including aerospace, automotive, medical, energy, robotics and industrial machinery – supporting over 70% of the Fortune 500 global manufacturers. We are proud of our commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality products, relentless pursuit of improvement, and unwavering dedication to providing excellent service to our valued customers.

Why Smalley?

At Smalley, we take pride in cultivating an inclusive work environment that values creativity, collaboration and diversity. We believe in our associates' unique perspectives that they bring to every challenge, which is why we will empower you to push the boundaries of what is possible. We are committed to nurturing an enjoyable work atmosphere demonstrated through activities such as Spirit Days, Cancer Awareness events, Health and Wellness activities, and fun sports opportunities to play in basketball, bags, and ping pong tournaments!

We Offer

• Competitive compensation and benefits package as well as: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k match, Life insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, PTO, and more!
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional growth
• Ongoing learning and training and development opportunities
• Company and department led team-building activities and events

Job Summary

Smalley is currently hiring a Set-Up Operator for our Manufacturing Department! This is an opportunity to build a skilled manufacturing career through a structured training path. Manufacturing or mechanical experience is preferred, but we are also seeking candidates with a positive attitude, mechanical aptitude, willingness to learn, and a commitment to growth.

Our Set-Up Operator Training Program

New hires begin with a two-week onboarding program covering measuring tools, inspections, documentation, Factory Track, safety, quality, and core manufacturing expectations. Set-Up Operator trainees then advance into a six-week, hands‑on Training School supported by dedicated trainers and weekly skill assessments.

• Learn on dedicated coiling equipment in a focused training environment
• Progress through skill-based modules, including tooling selection, machine setup, wave head adjustment, dimensioning, quality verification, troubleshooting, and independent setup competency
• Receive consistent instruction with a 1:3 trainer‑to‑trainee ratio
• Build skills step by step and demonstrate proficiency before advancing

Responsibilities

• Learn and perform machine setup activities using established safety, quality, and production procedures
• Select and identify proper tooling and prepare equipment for production
• Use measuring tools, including calipers and micrometers, to verify dimensions and quality
• Complete required documentation and use Factory Track accurately
• Troubleshoot setup issues, make appropriate adjustments, and verify results
• Maintain a safe, organized work area and demonstrate dependable attendance

Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude and interest in hands‑on work
• Positive attitude, willingness to learn, and commitment to development
• Experience working in a manufacturing or related environment preferred
• Experience measuring parts with precision instruments including: micrometers, digital calipers, etc. preferred
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to pass the required basic math and English exam
• Authorized to work in the US on a permanent basis

Shift Hours

• 1st Shift: 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM

A reasonable estimate of the hourly pay range for this role is $19.00 - $24.00 USD. Please note that actual salaries may vary within the range, or be above or below the range, based on factors including, but not limited to, education, training, experience, professional achievement, business need, and location. This role is bonus/and or incentive eligible.

EEO/Affirmative Action

Smalley is an equal opportunity employer and believes in equal opportunity for all employees and applicants. Accordingly, all employment decisions are based on the principles of equal opportunity. These decisions include recruitment, selection, promotion, transfer, discipline, compensation, benefits, training, and other personnel actions involving persons in all job titles and shall occur without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), age, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, ancestry, marital status, or any other legally protected class as recognized by applicable law.

You may be eligible for the following competitive benefits: medical, dental vision, life, accident & disability, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, paid holidays, paid time off and 401(k).