Machine Operator

Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc.; Salina (KS); On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc. is seeking a 1st Shift Machine Operator for our Salina, KS facility. The role involves operating manual and CNC equipment, reading blueprints, and ensuring parts meet tight tolerances.

Shifts run Monday–Thursday 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with overtime on Fridays as required. This position emphasizes safety, accuracy, and productivity in a growing manufacturing environment in Central Kansas.

Qualifications

• Experience as a machine operator or similar (1–3 years preferred).
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and drawings.
• Working knowledge of CNC equipment and machine shop practices.
• Proficiency with precision measuring tools to verify tolerances.
• Strong paperwork and record-keeping habits.

Responsibilities

• Study blueprints, sketches, drawings, manuals or sample part to determine dimensions and tolerances.
• Operate manual and CNC equipment including lathes and mills.
• Set up and produce parts within specified tolerances.
• Verify conformance of finished parts to specifications.
• Load parts into machines using forklifts or lifting tools as needed.
• Maintain a safe and clean work environment.
• Follow safety regulations and wear prescribed PPE.
• Other duties as assigned by supervision.

Skills

Machine operation

Mechanical aptitude

Blueprint reading

CNC knowledge

Precision measurement

Documentation

Tools

Engine lathe

Knee mill

Drill press

Job description

Machine Operator - 1st Shift - Salina, KS

Great Plains Manufacturing is seeking a 1st Shift Machine Operator to join our growing team at our CE Facility in Salina, KS.

This position works Monday-Thursday 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with overtime on Fridays as required.

Primary Duties And Responsibilities

• Study blueprints, sketches, drawings, manuals or sample part to determine dimensions and tolerances
• Operation of manual and CNC equipment to include lathes and mills
• Set up and production of parts within set tolerances
• Verify conformance of finished part to specifications
• Load parts into machines with the use of forklift, hoists or other lifting tools
• Maintain a safe and clean work environment
• Other duties may be assigned that require other qualifications, physical demands, and/or work environment
• Follow all Great Plains and OSHA safety regulations and wear prescribed safety and protective equipment

Preferred Skills And Qualifications

• One to three years’ experience as a machine operator or similar
• Mechanical aptitude
• Experience with Machine Shop manual equipment (engine lathe, knee mill, drill press)
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints
• Working knowledge of CNC equipment
• Must be able to use precision measuring equipment to ensure parts are manufactured within tolerance
• Ability to maintain accurate paperwork

At Great Plains Manufacturing, our people make the difference, making our company a great place to work and grow. For over 45 years, Great Plains Manufacturing, Inc., has been known as a world-class manufacturer of agriculture, farm and landscaping equipment in Central Kansas with over 2,300 dedicated employees. Now a Kubota company, Great Plains Manufacturing continues its dedication toward innovation and professional growth, while maintaining our family culture and community values. Grow with us!