Machine Operator

Standex Engraving Mold-Tech; Fraser (MI); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent manufacturing company in Michigan is seeking a dependable Machine Operator to manage soft trim and injection molding equipment. Successful candidates will have a high school diploma and preferred experience in operating related machinery. The role emphasizes quality, safety, and efficiency in producing automotive components, with opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Qualifications

• 1+ years' experience in operating machinery in the automotive industry preferred.
• Ability to read work instructions and basic engineering drawings.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate specialized machinery to meet production schedules.
• Inspect production parts for quality and accuracy.
• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on machines.

Skills

Operating soft trim equipment

Injection molding

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Plastic materials knowledge

Basic machine troubleshooting

Job description

Job Title: Machine Operator
Department: Production - Soft Trim Manufacturing (Automotive)
Status: Non-exempt
Reports To: Production Supervisor
Location: Fraser, MI

Summary

The Machine Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring Class A soft trim and plastic injection molding equipment to produce high-quality automotive components. This role requires a dependable, efficient, self-starting individual who follows automotive quality and safety standards and performs post-production tasks such as wrapping, labeling, and packaging finished parts.

What You'll Do

• Set up, operate, and monitor specialized machinery to meet production schedules and specifications.
• Inspect production parts for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and conformance to automotive quality standards.
• Record production data, quantities produced, scrap, and machine parameters accurately.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance, cleaning, and basic troubleshooting to minimize downtime.
• Assist with mold changes, machine setup, and tooling adjustments.
• Wrap, protect, label, and package finished parts according to customer and shipping requirements.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols.
• Maintain a clean, organized workstation and support 5S and lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Communicate production issues, quality concerns, and improvement opportunities to supervision.
• Work independently with minimal supervision; demonstrate initiative to improve efficiency and quality.
• Adhere consistently to attendance/punctuality, safety, and other company policies.

What You'll Bring

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 1+ years’ operating soft trim equipment and/or injection molding machines within the automotive industry preferred. Will consider training those in strong alignment with the rest of the job profile.

What We Value

• Experience with soft trim part finesse and manual edge-folding preferred.
• Technical Skills: Knowledge of plastic materials, molding parameters, and basic machine troubleshooting; ability to read work instructions and basic engineering drawings.
• Work Traits: Self-starter; efficient; dependable; strong attention to detail; commitment to safety and quality; personal growth mindset.
• Other: Willingness to work required shifts, overtime, and adhere to company attendance policies.

Preferred

• Experience with statistical process control (SPC), poka-yoke, or process documentation.
• Certification or training in injection molding equipment, mechanical aptitude, or forklift operation.
• Familiarity with automotive PPAP, APQP, or ISO/TS quality requirements.

Physical and Environmental Conditions

• Work performed in a manufacturing plant with exposure to noise, heat, and industrial chemicals; use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and manual handling of parts and materials (manual dexterity).
• Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs., perform repetitive motions, and work in a manufacturing environment.