Manufacturing Machine Operator I - Entry-US

Kennametal; Midland (MI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Kennametal is seeking a Machine Operator in Traverse City, MI for 2nd shift (2:00pm - 10:30pm, Monday–Friday). The role ensures continuous product flow in manufacturing and contributes to new product development while maintaining safety and quality standards.

Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED with technical training preferred and 3–5 years of manufacturing experience. Strong measurement and assembly skills are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• High school or GED required; additional technical school training preferred.
• Excellent blueprint reading skills are expected.
• 3–5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Versatile machining experience is valued.
• Strong mechanical background is helpful.
• Commitment to quality and customer satisfaction; ability to work in a team environment.
• Experience with Lean manufacturing is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate several machine types (conventional or CNC) on varied parts with close tolerances.
• Troubleshoot equipment breakdowns and production efficiency issues; ensure materials and tools are available.
• Support Lean, Quality, Safety and Productivity initiatives through active participation.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Machining experience

Mechanical background

Teamwork

Lean manufacturing

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical school training preferred

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.

Machine Operator

Traverse City, MI 2nd Shift: 2:00pm - 10:30pm (Monday- Friday)

Purpose Of The Position

The Machine Operator performs essential job functions within the manufacturing departments. This position is responsible for ensuring continuous product flow. This position is also involved in new Product Development. A Machine Operator will be 100% safe.

Supervision

A Machine Operator works under the supervision of the Manufacturing Manager and Off-Shift Production Supervisor, with the daily functional direction of the Senior Manufacturing Coordinator and / or Team Leader. The position is reviewed on an annual basis

Knowledge And Experience

• High school or GED graduate required with additional technical school training preferred
• Excellent blue print reading skills,
• 3-5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment,
• Versatile machining experience
• Strong mechanical background helpful.
• Commitment to quality and customer satisfaction and the ability to work in a team environment.
• Experience with Lean manufacturing a plus.

Key Job Accountabilities

• Setup and operate several types of machine of a similar type (conventional or CNC) on a regular basis working on a variety of complex parts to close tolerances with average to complicated setups. Works with minimal support or supervision. Selects appropriate feeds, speeds and tooling. (85%)
• Assists in problem solving and troubleshooting of equipment breakdowns and production efficiency issues. Assures appropriate material and tools are available. (10%)
• Supports Lean Enterprise, Quality, Safety and Productivity initiatives through appropriate levels of participation. (5%)

Competencies

• Performance Driven
• Listening skills
• Teamwork
• Integrity
• Commitment to Excellence

Work Conditions

45 DEGREES-85 DEGREES

Physical Demands

• Walking
• Reaching
• Sitting
• Bending
• Lifting and Carrying over 40lbs

Kennametal Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer