Manufacturing Machine Operator I - 3rd Shift

WIDIA; La Vergne (TN); On-site; USD 36,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Kennametal is seeking a Manufacturing Machine Operator for the LaVergne, TN facility. The role involves operating and setting up Stahli grinding machines, following blueprints and strict production standards to ensure high-quality inserts.

The position requires a high school diploma or GED and prior grinding equipment experience is preferred. It is a full-time, on-site role with a night shift schedule (Sunday-Thursday, 11pm-7am) and a $3.00/hr differential for third shift.

Qualifications

• Operate multiple grinding machines according to blueprint specifications.
• Set up and operate top and bottom grinding machines including Stahli 605 and 702 models.
• Maintain adherence to safety procedures and production standards.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate top and bottom grinding machines as required.
• Install, change, and dress grinding wheels.
• Determine stock removal while maintaining tolerances; gauge inserts for accuracy.
• Visually inspect inserts for surface quality; use scopes when needed.
• Support production with additional equipment as required.
• Troubleshoot basic to moderately complex issues on machines.

Skills

Grinding operations

Reading blueprints

Safety procedures

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Stahli 605

Stahli 702

Job description

About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Manufacturing Machine Operator

LaVergne, TN

Sunday - Thursday, 11pm - 7am

3rd shift has a $3.00/hr shift differential on top of hourly pay

Job Summary And Mission

Operate multiple Stahli or Blanchard grinding machines to produce high-quality products in accordance with blueprint specifications and production standards.

Key Job Responsibilities

• Set up and operate top and bottom grinding machines, including Stahli 605 and 702 models.
• Install, change, and dress grinding wheels as required.
• Determine required stock removal while maintaining tolerance specifications.
• Gauge inserts to ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Visually inspect inserts using scopes to verify surface characteristics.
• Operate additional equipment as needed to support production.
• Set up machines and troubleshoot basic to moderately complex issues independently.

Key Job Accountabilities

• Adhere strictly to all safety procedures and demonstrate a strong commitment to safe work practices.
• Follow operating procedures and work instructions for non-standard operations.
• Ensure all products meet specifications outlined in control plans, routings, and blueprints.
• Maintain consistent production output to meet daily departmental goals.
• Exhibit reliability and dependability in attendance and task execution.
• Communicate safety concerns, quality issues, and production updates with supervisors and peers across all shifts.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous experience with grinding equipment preferred.

Work Environment

• Controlled indoor environment with temperature regulation and dust collection systems.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) required: safety glasses with side shields, safety shoes, and gloves (including cut-resistant gloves when applicable).

Physical Demands

• Standing for approximately eight hours per shift, with two scheduled breaks.
• Periodic walking, reaching, bending, and light lifting.
• Must be able to lift insert trays weighing up to 33 pounds.

Problem Solving

• Complete assigned production orders by due date and according to operational guidelines.
• Solve routine problems using standard operating procedures and job-specific knowledge.
• Interpret and execute verbal and written instructions efficiently.Apply acquired knowledge of insert styles and production processes to maintain output quality.

Kennametal Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer