Hardware Operator I

Vantedge Medical Company; Stockton, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Vander-Bend is seeking a Hardware Operator I for a full-time onsite role in Stockton, CA. You will assist in the setup and operation of hardware presses and related tooling, following priorities from the Hardware Lead.

The position requires reading blueprints, measuring with dial calipers, and distinguishing metal types (plated and non-plated). Candidates should have about 1 year of precision sheet metal experience, with at least 6 months installing hardware.

Qualifications

• Reads and interprets blueprints.
• Ability to measure material thickness and heights with dial calipers.
• Basic arithmetic and reading of written documents.

Responsibilities

• Installs Press-fit and other hardware into parts using presses and tooling.
• Accepts priorities from Hardware Lead and Hardware Operator 2.
• Sets up tooling and switches to simpler auto-feed when needed.
• Installs PEM hardware, Southco components, and related fittings.
• Inserts dowel pins and checks installation height with calipers.
• Determines proper installation visually and with samples or gauges.
• Reads blueprints and ensures correct handling and stacking of parts.
• Keeps the hardware area clean and orderly.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Manual dexterity

Attention to detail

Tools

Dial calipers

Press machinery

Job description

Description

Hardware Operator I

Full-time | Permanent | Onsite
Hourly | $20.00 - $22.00

Day Shift

*We are not currently working with third party agencies on this role.

About Us:

Vander-Bend is a U.S.-based manufacturer dedicated to building the precision infrastructure that powers tomorrow’s AI. Our expertise in server racking and power delivery solutions provides the backbone for next-generation data centers, enabling hyperscalers and integrators to innovate and scale globally. With a focus on trusted, domestic manufacturing, we deliver quality, speed, and innovation at scale—redefining AI infrastructure for the future.

We are a newly created division of Vantedge Medical, the premier metals-based med-tech solutions partner from concept to full-scale manufacturing. With a steadfast commitment to advancing technology, we take immense pride in the work we do – and have a lot of fun doing it.

About This Opportunity:

This position is responsible for the less complex set-up and installation of most types of hardware. The Hardware Operator I can set up and operate machines and HW jobs without the close supervision needed by the Hardware operator Trainee.

Responsibilities

• Installs Press-fit and other types of hardware into parts using hardware presses and other purpose- built tools and machinery.
• Accepts and follows priorities assigned by the Hardware Lead and Hardware Operator 2.
• Selects tooling and sets-up to each job. When production volume indicates the need for auto-feed, sets up simpler auto-feed tooling.
• Installs all types of PEM and similar press-in hardware, press-in Southco, flare-in Southco, nutserts, and similar hardware
• Inserts dowel pins and determines proper installation height with dial calipers
• Determines correct installation and failed installation visually, and using sample hardware and/or thread gauges
• Reads and interprets blueprints.
• Ensures the proper handling and stacking of parts to produce quality product.
• Helps to keep hardware department area clean and orderly.

Requirements

• Requires the ability to read and understand written documents.
• 1 year of experience in precision sheet metal of which 6 months must be installing Hardware.
• Read and correctly interpret blueprints.
• Ability to visually differentiate between metal types both plated and non-plated.
• Knowledge of hardware types including thread pitches both standard and metric, most PEM hardware types.
• Use of dial calipers to measure material thickness, hardware types, and hardware installation heights.
• Basic arithmetic such as addition and subtraction.
• Physical Requirements: Most assigned tasks for this position may involve “Medium Work”, as defined below. The hiring authority may review the applicant’s physical ability based on the specific tasks to be assigned:

1. Medium Work: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.