Machine Operator

A.O. Smith; Franklin (TN); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental insurance

Life insurance

Retirement security savings plan

Tuition assistance

Job summary

A leading water heating manufacturer is seeking a Machine Operator in Franklin, TN. Responsibilities include manufacturing water heater components, monitoring machine processes, ensuring product quality, and training team members. Candidates must have a High School Diploma or GED, effective communication skills, and mechanical aptitude. The position offers competitive compensation and benefits, with a preference for basic computer skills for accessing production specs.

Qualifications

• Must communicate effectively and work well in a team.
• Must read and interpret technical manuals and blueprints.
• Strong mechanical aptitude is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Monitor machine processes and make real-time adjustments.
• Conduct quality checks to ensure specifications are met.
• Comply with safety guidelines to minimize workplace hazards.
• Assist in training new team members on operations.
• Produce high-quality output efficiently.

Skills

Effective communication

Teamwork

Mechanical aptitude

Basic computer skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

SAP

Measuring instruments (calipers, gauges)

Job description

Machine Operator

Date: Apr 8, 2026

Location(s): Franklin, TN, US, 37604

Business Unit: NAWH

Hybrid, Onsite or Remote: Onsite

Company / Location Information

A.O. Smith is a global leader applying innovative technologies and energy-efficient solutions to products manufactured and marketed worldwide. The company is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of residential and commercial water heating equipment and boilers, as well as a manufacturer of water treatment products for residential and light commercial applications. A. O. Smith is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with approximately 12,000 employees at operations in the United States, Canada, China, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.

Primary Function

The 1st Shift Operator will be responsible for the manufacturing of water heater components per department standards. They will cross‑train on operations in each department and follow quality and safety standards. The operator will use measurement tools, work instructions, and production schedule to meet daily production needs and customer requirements, while monitoring performance to optimize production processes.

Responsibilities

• Monitoring area machine process closely, making real‑time adjustments to equipment settings to maintain product quality and output efficiency
• Conducting quality checks on products to ensure specifications and company standards are met
• Complying with all safety guidelines and protocols to create a safe working environment and minimize workplace hazards
• Ensuring area machines are working properly and safely at the start of each shift
• Assisting and training new team members on operation process and equipment usage
• Detail oriented with a focus on producing high‑quality output in a timely and efficient manner
• Mechanically inclined with the ability to understand and operate complex machinery
• Ability to use measuring and gauging instruments including but not limited to calipers, rulers, temperature and ring gages

While performing the duties of this job, the employee will use production equipment which can exceed a decibel level of 85; hearing protection is required on the manufacturing floor as well as eye protection and steel‑toed or composite safety shoes. The plant is climate controlled.

• Must have physical stamina to work in an industrial production setting with repetitive movement for the entire scheduled shift (8–12 hours)
• Frequent bending, stooping, crouching, standing, pushing, pulling, and reaching for extended periods
• Must be able to do visual inspections and listen for equipment malfunctions or changes in pitch that can indicate a problem
• Continuous periods of walking, sitting, and standing
• Must be able to lift and/or move heavy objects up to 50 lbs unassisted, and perform physical tasks associated with the role

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED
• Effective communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with other team members
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, blueprints, and production specifications
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to understand and operate complex machinery
• Basic computer skills for accessing SAP and locating blueprints preferred
• Must be able to work overtime and weekends as required

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting/standing and frequent bending and reaching
• The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds with assistance

We Offer

Competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefit plans which include medical and dental insurance, company‑sponsored life insurance, retirement security savings plan, short‑ and long‑term disability programs and tuition assistance.

ADA Statement & EEO Statement

In developing this job description care was taken to include all competencies needed to successfully perform in this position. However, for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) purposes, the essential functions of the job may or may not have been described for purposes of ADA reasonable accommodation. All reasonable accommodation requests will be reviewed and evaluated on a case‑by‑case basis.

We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, gender identity and expression, marital or military status. We also provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local law.