Core Cutting Technician

Balance Staffing - San Jose; Town of Texas (WI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Balance Staffing - San Jose seeks a Core Cutting Technician to set up and operate automated core cutting equipment used to process CRGO into precision laminations for transformer cores. The role focuses on accuracy, process ownership, and ramp-up support in a manufacturing environment.

The technician will follow engineering specs, inspect laminations, log data, and assist in training and start-up activities to ensure production readiness and quality standards are met.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or GED required.
• Experience: 5+ years in manufacturing/industrial environment; 3+ years on automated equipment in precision manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate automated core cutting and step-lap equipment based on work instructions.
• Monitor machine performance and adjust for quality and stability.
• Log production data and material traceability into ERP/production-tracking systems.
• Support equipment startup, qualification, and commissioning during ramp-up.

Skills

Read technical drawings

Measurement tools

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshoot issues

Setup and training

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate degree in Electrical/Mechanical Technology

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

Gauges

Job description

Job Description

Th Core Cutting Technician is responsible for setting up, operating, and supporting the commissioning of automated equipment used to process grain-oriented electrical steel (CRGO) into precision laminations for power transformer cores. This role requires a high level of technical competence, attention to detail, and process ownership to ensure materials are cut accurately and consistently in accordance with engineering specifications and quality standards.
This position is intended for experienced manufacturing personnel who will serve as part of the seed team during facility ramp-up, supporting equipment startup, Technician training, process stabilization, and overall production readiness.

Core Cutting & Equipment Operation

• Set up and operate automated core cutting and step-lap equipment
• Execute cutting programs for lamination lengths, angles, and configurations based on work instructions and engineering requirements
• Monitor machine performance and make adjustments to maintain consistent product quality and process stability
• Support equipment startup, qualification, and commissioning activities during ramp-up
• Assist in developing standard work and best practices for core cutting operations

Quality Control & Inspection

• Assess incoming CRGO material for correct grade, thickness, coating condition, and surface integrity prior to processing
• Inspect laminations for dimensional accuracy, burr height, coating condition, and defects
• Verify conformance to engineering specifications, work instructions, and quality requirements
• Accurately log production data, material traceability, and quality yields into the ERP or production tracking system
• Identify recurring quality issues and support corrective actions to improve consistency and reduce rework

Material Handling

• Safely handle steel coils and laminations using overhead cranes and lifting equipment
• Load coils into processing equipment and manage output of cut laminations in accordance with established procedures
• Ensure materials are handled in a manner that prevents damage and maintains traceability

Equipment Care & Workplace Standards

• Perform routine equipment checks, daily safety inspections, and basic preventive maintenance
• Support troubleshooting of equipment and process issues in coordination with maintenance, engineering, and supervision as needed
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with company standards

Training & Team Support

• Support training and qualification of newTechnicians during factory ramp-up
• Share process knowledge, equipment best practices, and quality expectations with team members
• Assist supervisors in identifying process gaps, training needs, and improvement opportunities

Required Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or GED required
Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment
• 3+ years of experience operating automated equipment in a precision manufacturing environment
• Prior experience in transformer manufacturing, electrical steel processing, or similar engineered-product manufacturing preferred

Skills

• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, work instructions, and production specifications
• Proficiency with measurement tools such as calipers, micrometers, and gauges
• Strong mechanical aptitude and attention to detail
• Demonstrated ability to identify, troubleshoot, and respond to process or quality issues
• Ability to support setup, startup, and training activities in a manufacturing environment

Safety & Certifications

• Familiarity with Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures
• Experience with overhead cranes or lifting equipment preferred
• Ability to follow all workplace safety requirements and reinforce safe work practices with others

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree (AAS) in Electrical Technology, Mechanical Technology, Mechatronics, or related field strongly preferred
• Experience in transformer manufacturing, motor manufacturing, electrical steel processing, or similar industries
• Experience supporting equipment commissioning, process improvements, orTechniciantraining
• Experience working with engineered materials requiring precision and repeatability
• Demonstrated ability to lead by example in quality, safety, and execution

Additional Requirements

• Ability and willingness to travel Internationally for training, equipment commissioning, or support activities, including extended travel du