Machine Operator 1st Shift

Apogee Enterprises Inc; Manchester (NH); On-site; USD 36,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits package

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Employee assistance program

Wellness program

Career progression

Job summary

Kalwall Enterprises Inc. in Manchester, NH, invites applicants for a Machine Operator role on the 1st shift (7:00 AM–3:30 PM). You will operate automated machinery, load materials, monitor resin thickness, perform setup, and document production logs.

Strong mechanical skills and safety awareness are essential. The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent, technical certification preferred, and 2–4 years of operation experience with lean manufacturing knowledge.

Qualifications

• HS diploma or equivalent; technical certification preferred.
• 2–4 years of machine operation experience.
• Forklift and Raymond certification required.
• Ability to read drawings and use measuring tools.

Responsibilities

• Operate and adjust automated equipment to produce accurate parts.
• Set up machines and calibrate per specifications.
• Inspect products and identify defects, ensuring quality.
• Troubleshoot minor mechanical issues and log production data.
• Maintain safe, clean work area and collaborate with teams.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Reading measuring tools

Troubleshooting

Quality awareness

Education

HS diploma or equivalent

Technical certification preferred

Tools

Forklift & Raymond certification

Calipers

Job description

Kalwall Enterprises Inc.

Founded in 1955, Kalwall has set the standard for diffuse natural lighting for more than 70 years. While our technologies have evolved since the invention of the translucent sandwich panel that established Kalwall as an industry pioneer, the beauty, efficiency, and durability of our composite daylighting systems remain unmatched. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship, custom solutions, and innovation continues to guide everything we do, helping us deliver exceptional products while creating opportunities for our employees to grow and make an impact.

On July 1, 2026, Kalwall became part of Apogee Enterprises, opening an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation.

Kalwall has immediate openings for Machine Operators at its Manufacturing facility in Manchester, NH.

Position Summary

As a Machine Operator, you may be responsible for operating, cleaning and monitoring automated machinery to ensure efficient production of TBI beam in various sizes or working on a more manual piece of equipment to load materialonto feed reels and monitor resin thickness in the Lamination department. Mechanical and technical aptitude as well as the motivation to learn is crucial. The roles may involve startup/setup of the machine and its components, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and adhering to safety and quality standards.

Shift: 1st

Work Schedule: 7:00 AM-3:30 PM

Key Responsibilities

• Operate equipment and adjust process parameters to produce dimensionally accurate parts during daily production runs.
• Perform machine setup and calibration according to specifications.
• Inspect finished products for quality and compliance with standards and catch defective parts as soon as they are found.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor mechanical or technical issues.
• Maintain accurate production logs and documentation.
• Follow all safety protocols and maintain a clean work environment with minimal waste.
• Collaborate with maintenance and quality teams to ensure optimal machine performance.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned subject to reasonable accommodations

Essential Functions

• Operate automated machinery safely and efficiently.
• Read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and work instructions.
• Utilize measuring and mechanical tools to maintain proper operation
• Recognize when problems arise with production and effectively take corrective action
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors.
• Maintain consistent production output and meet deadlines.
• Perform routine machine checks and minor adjustments.
• Cross-train on duties involving the machine and its operation

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification preferred.
• 2-4 years of experience in machine operation or manufacturing environment.
• Forklift + Raymond certification
• Basic mechanical and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to use measurement tools, such as calipers, and read technical specifications.
• Familiarity with safety standards and quality control processes.
• Experience with automated systems and controls.
• Knowledge and compliance of lean manufacturing principles.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 8 hours).
• Lift and move materials up to 50 lbs occasionally.
• Frequent bending, stooping, and reaching.
• Manual dexterity for handling small parts and operating controls.
• Visual acuity for reading gauges and inspecting products.
• Attention to detail in finding defective product
• Tolerance for working in a noisy, fast-paced environment.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing floor with exposure to machinery noise and moving parts.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
• May involve occasional overtime or weekend shifts.

Our Benefits

We care about and invest in our employees. We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their well-being and foster professional development. Here is a glimpse of what you can look forward to if you join our team.

• Competitive Benefits Package for employees and their dependents (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability)

• Incentive Plans

• 401(k) with employer contribution and match

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan with employer match

• Paid Time Off (Vacation and Sick Time)

• Paid Holidays

• Tuition Reimbursement Program

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Wellness Program

• Training and Career Progression

Apogee and our brands are an Equal Opportunity Employer.