Machine Operator

Whitney Blake Company; Bellows Falls (VT); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing company in Bellows Falls, Vermont is seeking a Machine Operator I to set up and operate wire machinery, ensuring compliance with quality control standards and safety protocols. The ideal candidate will have a High School Diploma, at least 3 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, and strong mechanical aptitude. Responsibilities include troubleshooting machinery, maintaining production efficiency, and adhering to industry standards. The role may require over time to meet production goals.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma is required; advanced technical degree preferred.
• 3+ years experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of ISO 9001 and lean manufacturing is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate wire machinery according to procedures.
• Perform troubleshooting and adjustments as needed.
• Maintain quality control standards.

Skills

Visual acuity

Mechanical aptitude

Problem-solving skills

Ability to read process instructions

Team player

Education

High School Diploma

Advanced technical degree (preferred)

3+ years in manufacturing

Tools

Manufacturing equipment

Measurement devices

Job description

A Machine Operator I sets up and operates wire machinery in accordance with established company procedures, guidelines and customer requirements. Reads and interprets work instructions and diagrams to select, position and run machinery. Adjusts machine settings to complete tasks accurately, according to specifications, and in a timely fashion. Responsible for ensuring machines run smoothly and efficiently on a daily basis, as well as maintain quality control standards while adhering to safety protocols.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Full responsibility for machine operations including reading, interpreting and analyzing production orders.
• Setup, start-up and run wire manufacturing machines in accordance with standard work instructions
• Setup tasks including selecting dies, reading blue prints/drawings and determining proper positioning and adjusting of downstream equipment to maximize efficiency and achieve production goal.
• Inspecting output to assure quality of materials produced including locating defects and checking for conformance to specifications.
• Distinguish between a mechanical problem and an operator error, and to perform basic troubleshooting and take corrective measures. Diagnose production problems and make adjustments.
• Ensure all secondary equipment is setup and running properly.
• Communicate all malfunction of equipment or tooling to the proper support department.
• Use basic problem solving skills to troubleshoot machines and auxiliary equipment.
• Ensure production work orders, outputs and efficiencies are met.
• Check and complete all paperwork associated with the setup and adjustments of tooling, machinery and auxiliary equipment. Document changes to cycles in job log / process control forms during setup/start-up.
• Perform material handling and quality checks.
• Self-inspection and process control forms during setup/start-up.
• Ensure compliance with all associated procedures applicable to the manufacturing process.
• Accurately count and report production and inventory
• Maintain a safe working environment. Maintain a good housekeeping policy.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and business practices to include industry standards, Good Manufacturing Practices, ISO requirements, health and safety.
• Perform other related duties as directed.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Required to have good visual acuity to perform activities such as; preparing and analyzing data and figures, visual inspection involving small defects, small parts, and/or operation or machines, and using measurement devices.
• Be conversant with equipment, tools and measuring instruments associated with the manufacturing cycle.
• Should have good mechanical aptitude, be able to multi-task in a fast paced work environment and have general knowledge of hand tools.
• Capable of reading and understanding process instructions.
• Team player capable of successfully interacting at all levels with customers, peers, seniors & subordinates in the resolution of day-to-day production issues.
• Show strong work ethic necessary for leading by example, miss work rarely and will be always well-presented.

EDUCATION

• High School Diploma is required, advanced technical degree is preferred. Experience may be considered in lieu of a degree for a candidate who can demonstrate the combination of experience, training and education to be capable of successfully fulfilling all duties and responsibilities of the position.
• Ability to work hours, as required, that are appropriate to completing projects and tasks on schedule.
• Basic level of experience, 3+ years of experience within a manufacturing environment working with automated machinery.
• Experience in ISO 9001, lean manufacturing, 5S, and strong process troubleshooting skills is a plus.

COMPUTER SKILLS

• Ability to utilize machine interface and control screens for the proper operation of production machinery.

SUPERVISORY REQUIREMENTS

• Responsible for workflow, answering job-related questions, and team participation.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Manufacturing: Work involves use of manufacturing equipment or close proximity to equipment. May be exposure to some routine manufacturing related substances.
• Includes a variety of conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts and exposure to high heat.
• Recurring physical demands include sitting, standing, walking, crouching and use of tools.
• Heavy Work - Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
• Location: Corporate Headquarters in Bellows Falls, Vermont.
• General Hours: 1 st shift 6:30am – 2:30pm
• Over time required to achieve production goals: Est 5-hours/week