Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Standex Engraving; Fraser (MI); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive parts manufacturer is seeking a Machine Operator responsible for operating and maintaining automated equipment in a high-tech production facility in Fraser, MI. The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma and 2+ years of experience in the automotive sector. Responsibilities include setting up machinery, ensuring production quality, recording data, and performing preventive maintenance. The position offers opportunities to develop skills and grow within the company.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years of experience operating soft trim or injection molding machines.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor specialized machinery for production.
• Inspect production parts for quality and accuracy.
• Perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting.

Skills

Attention to detail

Safe operating procedures

Basic troubleshooting

Ability to operate forklift

Education

High school diploma or GED

2+ years operating equipment

Tools

Injection molding machines

Automated handling systems

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, monitoring, and maintaining automated equipment in a state-of-the-art automotive interior soft trim and plastic injection molding facility. This plant is a new, small-scale, high-tech operation focused on producing automotive interior components. Operators ensure machines run efficiently, safely, and produce high-quality molded parts that meet customer and automotive standards.

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.
• Adheres consistently to attendance/punctuality, safety, and other company policies.

What You’ll Bring

Education & Experience requirements:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years’ operating soft trim equipment and / or injection molding machines within automotive industry (or similar environment)

What We Value

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience with soft trim part finesse and manual edge-folding preferred.
• Knowledge of plastic materials, molding parameters, and basic machine troubleshooting; ability to read work instructions and basic engineering drawings.
• Ability to operate forklift.
• Self-starter; efficient; dependable; strong attention to detail; commitment to safety and quality.
• An interest in developing within the company (learning new skills or growth opportunities)
• 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 IATF quality requirements.

Physical and Environmental Conditions

• Molding presses, automated handling systems, robotic equipment, and inspection tools. The plant operates under automotive quality standards including IATF 16949 and ISO 9001.
• 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.