Machine Builder

Pridgeon & Clay; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 56,000 - 69,000; Full time

Job summary

Pridgeon & Clay is seeking a Machine Builder to collaborate with Production, Maintenance and Automation teams. You will build, assemble, troubleshoot, modify and maintain fixtures and special machines, ensuring safety and compliance with quality standards.

Responsibilities include wiring sensors, assembling components per prints, and maintaining pneumatic/hydraulic circuits. The role requires hands-on fabrication skills and safe operation of lifting equipment, with a focus on teamwork and

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required or equivalent.
• Robotics/mechanical/welding certs or 5+ years related experience.
• Experience with electronic equipment and sensor wiring.
• Knowledge of pneumatic and hydraulic circuits.
• Ability to read prints and use SolidWorks for fixtures.
• Strong math, manufacturing knowledge and computer literacy.

Responsibilities

• Operate mills, grinders, drills, lathes to make components per prints.
• Assemble, debug, modify and repair fixtures and special machines.
• Wire sensors and route cables safely; maintain circuits.
• Install and maintain pneumatic/hydraulic circuits on machines.
• Read detailed prints and blueprints; fabricate tooling components.
• Welding and fabrication work as needed; support CI teams.
• Mentor apprentices and helpers; ensure safety and quality.

Education

High school diploma or GED

Robotics maintenance/certification (or welding)

Experience with electronic equipment

Sensor wiring experience

Pneumatic and hydraulic systems

SolidWorks understanding

Able to lift 50 pounds

Computer literacy

Strong interpersonal skills

Tools

SolidWorks

Forklift/Hi-Lo license

Crane license

Job description

Are you looking for a challenging yet rewarding job that allows you to utilize your skills to their fullest potential? Do you want to join a team of hardworking, enthusiastic and creative people and enjoy working with a company that recognizes and embraces diversity? Do you take pride working with a company that is committed to being a great corporate citizen and playing a role in producing the highest quality products and services.

Machine Builder

Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt

Reports To: Senior Maintenance Supervisor

Date: August 19, 2026

Position Summary

The Machine Builder works collaboratively with Production, Maintenance, Automation, and other departments to build, assemble, troubleshoot, modify, and maintain fixtures, special machines, and related equipment. This position is responsible for ensuring all machine-building, fabrication, repair, and maintenance activities are completed safely, accurately, and in accordance with company quality standards and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Robotics maintenance, mechanical, machine equipment, and/or welding certification, or a minimum of five years of relevant experience.
• Experience working with electronic equipment and a general understanding of electronic systems.
• Experience working with and wiring sensors.
• Experience with pneumatic and hydraulic plumbing and circuitry.
• Working knowledge of fixture operation and functionality.
• Ability to use SolidWorks to understand, build, and/or design fixtures, components, and equipment.
• Ability to successfully complete written and practical tests required to obtain company forklift/Hi-Lo and crane licenses.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude, general mathematics, and manufacturing knowledge through standardized testing.
• Computer literacy.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Proven strong work history, including consistent attendance.

Minimum requirements are reviewed and updated annually to meet the demands of various positions. Employees hired prior to the latest revision may not meet all current requirements.

Essential FunctionsMachining, Fabrication & Assembly

• Operate mills, grinders, drill presses, lathes, and other equipment to produce and modify components according to prints and specifications.
• Assemble, debug, modify, and repair fixtures and special machines.
• Wire and adjust sensors while properly routing and protecting sensor cables.
• Install and maintain pneumatic and hydraulic circuits on machines and fixtures.
• Read and interpret detailed prints and blueprints to manufacture tooling components.
• Perform gas, MIG, and arc welding, as well as plasma and oxy/fuel cutting for fabrication, construction, and repair.
• Assist Automation and Continuous Improvement teams with the assembly of special machines, fixtures, and other fabrication projects.
• Assist the Maintenance Department with design, assembly, fabrication, and related projects.
• Provide guidance, instruction, and training to apprentices and helpers.

Troubleshooting & Problem Solving

• Troubleshoot, analyze, and correct fixture and special machine issues.
• Work closely with Production personnel to troubleshoot equipment issues and identify opportunities to improve throughput and efficiency.
• Identify root causes of mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic issues and implement appropriate corrective actions.

Continuous Improvement & Lean Principles

• Participate in and support Lean initiatives, including continuous improvement and problem-solving events.
• Identify and eliminate waste and inefficiencies within processes and work areas.
• Recommend and implement ideas that improve individual and departmental efficiency.
• Communicate potential cost savings and improvement opportunities to fellow Machine Builders, Team Leaders, and management.
• Participate in 8D and 5-Why problem-solving teams.

Quality

• Ensure all fabrication, machine-building, repair, and maintenance projects meet established quality standards.
• Assist with updating drawings, blueprints, and schematics in accordance with applicable codes, service manuals, and manufacturer specifications.
• Maintain current knowledge of mechanical systems, robotics, machine equipment, and welding through continuing education, including college courses, manufacturer seminars, vendor training, and technical publications.
• Consistently follow company quality standards and procedures, including ISO and IATF 16949 requirements.

Safety & 5S

• Follow all safety procedures and applicable MIOSHA requirements related to machinery, personal protective equipment (PPE), machine controls and safety devices, lockout/tagout, coolants, and die-block procedures.
• Operate department forklifts/Hi-Los, boom lifts, scissor lifts, and overhead cranes as required and when properly licensed.
• Identify potential safety hazards and take appropriate action to eliminate or minimize risks.
• Immediately report safety concerns and take appropriate steps to correct hazards when possible.
• Maintain personal and department work areas in accordance with 5S standards.
• Notify management when machinery, tools, or equipment require repair or replacement.

Organization, Communication & Professionalism

• Communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, management, and other departments to promote teamwork and collaboration.
• Provide accurate, timely, and relevant information and feedback to coworkers and management.
• Maintain consistent and reliable attendance and work the hours necessary to successfully perform the job.
• Consistently follow company policies, procedures, quality standards, and safety regulations.
• Accept instructions, assignments, and additional responsibilities in a positive and professional manner.
• Treat all coworkers with dignity and respect.
• Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating professionalism, personal integrity, accountability, and a positive attitude.
• Support and demonstrate the company's core values of Integrity, People, Customers, Safety, We Can If...Do What It Takes, and Ownership through daily actions and decisions.

Salary: $27 - $33 per hour