Machine Operator 1st Shift - Jerome Ave

ASTEC; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Astec is seeking a Machine Operator in Chattanooga to set up, operate, monitor, and maintain production equipment. You will read blueprints, adjust settings, and perform pre-operation checks, ensuring quality and safety on the shop floor.

The role requires 2+ years in heavy equipment manufacturing, basic math and measurement skills, and the ability to follow instructions with strong communication. Training provided, team-oriented environment, and strict safety rules apply.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Relevant trade school or college coursework desired.
• Blueprint reading skills desired.
• 2+ years of heavy equipment manufacturing.
• Computer experience desired.
• Follow verbal instructions; training provided.
• Good written and oral communication; problem solving.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate a production machine in accordance with Astec’s guidelines.
• Control and adjust machine settings to complete tasks accurately.
• Perform pre-operation activities to ensure proper equipment startup and operation.
• Accurately perform task based on blueprints provided.
• Maintain a detailed activity log of daily duties.
• Read cut lists and review material requirements; operate cranes/forklifts as needed.
• Ensure safety, keep area clean, and follow company policies.

Skills

Safety awareness

Blueprint reading

Math skills

Measuring tools

Hand tools

Machine operation

Cranes & forklifts

Layout work

Troubleshooting

Team communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Trade school training

Tools

Computer literacy

Job description

BUILT TO CONNECTAstec is a global, environmentally focused infrastructure and manufacturing company of asphalt road building and aggregate processing. Our mission is to design and build the most innovative products for the industries we serve. Leveraging innovative solutions and technologies, we serve customers all over the world.

BUILT TO CONNECTAstec is a global, environmentally focused infrastructure and manufacturing company of asphalt road building and aggregate processing. Our mission is to design and build the most innovative products for the industries we serve. Leveraging innovative solutions and technologies, we serve customers all over the world.

About The Position

The Machine Operator will be responsible for performing various tasks to set up, operate, monitor, troubleshoot and perform preventive maintenance on assigned machines. The Machine Operator will also be responsible for inspecting parts to specifications and making adjustments, or tool changes as necessary to maintain quality specifications.

Key Deliverables

• Set up and operate a production machine in accordance with Astec’s guidelines.
• Control and adjust machine settings to complete tasks accurately.
• Perform pre-operation activities to ensure proper equipment startup and operation.
• Accurately perform task based on blueprints provided.
• Maintain a detailed activity log of daily duties.

Key Activities & Responsibilities

• Knowledgeable in basic machine safety to include proper lifting techniques.
• Basic blueprint reading and math skills (basic geometry to figure angles) and decimals and metric conversions.
• Knowledgeable and able to use tape measure, combination square, levels, and radius boards, etc.
• Able to safely use hand tools to include hammer, adjustable wrench, air grinder, pencil grinder, and air wrenches.
• Closely monitor machine while in operation, never leaving immediate work area while machine is in operation and be ready to respond to breakdowns quickly in order to shut down machine.
• Be able to read cut lists (basic reading skills and knowledge of materials – types of steel Able to safely operate cranes and forklifts.
• Be able to do some layout work.
• Review operator manual(s) for saw, drill, and mill for safe and appropriate operation (to include preventive maintenance).
• Communicate with other machine operators and team members to guarantee safety on the floor.
• Keep work area neat and clean.
• Must follow all Astec, Inc. safety rules and requirements.
• Must follow all company policy requirements.

To be successful in this role, your experience and competencies are:

• High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED) preferred.
• Relevant trade school or college course work desired.
• Blueprint reading skills desired.
• 2+ years of Heavy equipment manufacturing.
• Computer experience desired, particularly the ability to use a mouse, and locate and open/close files.

• Ability to follow verbal instruction and learn how to operate machine, training will be provided.
• Must have good written and oral communication skills.
• Must have good troubleshooting skills, be able to maintain quality, and diagnose cutting problems.

Supervisor and Leadership Expectations

None

Our Culture and Values

• Continuous devotion to meeting the needs of our customers
• Honesty and integrity in all aspects of business
• Respect for all individuals
• Preserving entrepreneurial spirit and innovation
• Safety, quality and productivity as means to ensure success

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Manufacturing Environment

Shop manufacturing environment exposures include exposure to moving mechanical parts, machinery, tools and equipment, vibration, fumes or airborne particles, motorized vehicles, welding and machining operations, outside weather conditions and exposure to the risk of electric shock. The employee may occasionally be exposed to varying levels of dirt, dust, toxic or caustic chemicals, very warm and/or very chilly temperatures. The noise level in the shop can be very loud at times consistent with an industrial assembly facility and may require hearing protection. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Astec does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender (sex), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, citizenship status, a person’s veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law or executive order.