Machine Operator (1st Shift)

Kalwall Enterprises Inc.; River Road (NC); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

Life, Disability Insurance

401(k) with employer contribution

Paid Time Off

Tuition Reimbursement

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Wellness Program

Job summary

Kalwall Enterprises Inc. is seeking a dedicated Machine Operator for our Bow, NH manufacturing facility. You will operate automated machinery, set up and calibrate equipment, and monitor resin thickness in lamination processes to ensure high-quality TBI beam production.

Responsibilities include inspecting finished parts, recording production data, and maintaining safety standards in a fast-paced environment. Prior experience with automated systems and lean manufacturing is preferred.

Qualifications

• 2-4 years of experience in machine operation or manufacturing.
• Forklift and Raymond certification.
• Basic mechanical and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read calipers and read technical specifications.
• Familiarity with safety and quality control processes.
• Experience with automated systems and controls.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles.

Responsibilities

• Operate equipment and adjust process parameters to produce dimensionally accurate parts.
• Perform machine setup and calibration according to specifications.
• Inspect finished products for quality and compliance with standards.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor mechanical or technical issues.
• Maintain accurate production logs and documentation.
• Follow safety protocols and keep the work area clean and organized.
• Collaborate with maintenance and quality teams to ensure optimal machine performance.
• Cross-train on duties involving the machine and its operation.

Skills

Machine operation

Manufacturing experience

Quality inspection

Technical drawings

Lean manufacturing

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical certification (preferred)

Tools

Forklift certification

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 Bow, NH.Position SummaryAs 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 material onto 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: 1stWork Schedule: 7:00 AM-3:30 PMKey ResponsibilitiesOperate 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 accommodationsEssential FunctionsOperate automated machinery safely and efficiently.Read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and work instructions.Utilize measuring and mechanical tools to maintain proper operationRecognize when problems arise with production and effectively take corrective actionCommunicate 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 operationQualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certification preferred.2-4 years of experience in machine operation or manufacturing environment.Forklift + Raymond certificationBasic 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 RequirementsAbility 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 productTolerance for working in a noisy, fast-paced environment.Work EnvironmentManufacturing floor with exposure to machinery noise and moving parts.Personal protective equipment (PPE) required.May involve occasional overtime or weekend shifts.Our BenefitsWe 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 Plans401(k) with employer contribution and matchEmployee Stock Purchase Plan with employer matchPaid Time Off (Vacation and Sick Time)Paid HolidaysTuition Reimbursement ProgramEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)Wellness ProgramTraining and Career ProgressionApogee and our brands are an Equal Opportunity Employer.