Machine Builder

Pridgeon & Clay; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 28,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

Pridgeon & Clay is seeking a Machine Builder in Grand Rapids, MI. The role involves building, assembling, troubleshooting, modifying, and maintaining fixtures and special machines with a focus on safety and quality.

The candidate should have a high school diploma or GED, 5+ years of relevant experience or related certifications, and proficiency with electronic systems, sensors, and SolidWorks. Welding, pneumatic, and hydraulic skills are valued.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or GED required.
• Five years of relevant experience or robotics/mechanical/welding certification.
• Experience working with electronic equipment and sensors.
• Experience wiring sensors.
• Experience with pneumatic and hydraulic plumbing and circuitry.
• Knowledge of fixture operation and functionality.
• Ability to use SolidWorks to understand, build, and/or design fixtures, components, and equipment.
• Able to obtain forklift/Hi-Lo and crane licenses through tests.

Responsibilities

• Operate mills, grinders, drill presses, lathes to produce components.
• Assemble, debug, modify, and repair fixtures and special machines.
• Wire and adjust sensors and route sensor cables.
• Install and maintain pneumatic and hydraulic circuits on machines.
• Read blueprints to manufacture tooling components.
• Perform welding and cutting for fabrication and repair.
• Assist Automation and Maintenance teams on projects.
• Provide guidance and training to apprentices and helpers.

Skills

Robotics maintenance

Mechanical aptitude

Electrical systems understanding

Excellent interpersonal &communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

SolidWorks

Welding

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 Functions

Machining, 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.