Mechanical Production Operator- Direct Hire up to $51K+ per annum

ZipRecruiter; Oak Creek (WI); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in Oak Creek is seeking a Mechanically Trained Operator to enhance production efficiency and maintain high-quality standards. The role involves operating and maintaining high-speed equipment, collaborating with teams, and troubleshooting mechanical issues. Candidates should have a strong mechanical aptitude and be proactive team players. This permanent position offers competitive pay and opportunities for growth in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years in manufacturing, preferably in speed packaging.
• Experience with mechanical systems and tools.

Responsibilities

• Operate high-speed packaging and production equipment.
• Perform minor mechanical maintenance and troubleshoot issues.
• Collaborate with teams for operational efficiency.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting skills

English proficiency

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical training in industrial mechanics

Tools

Tools

Job description

Job Description

Job Title: Mechanically Trained Operator

Location: Oak Creek, WI, United States

Job Pay Rate: $22-$24/hr. + shift premium for 2nd & 3rd shifts.

Job Type: Permanent

Schedule Notes:

Shift Available:

2nd Shift: 2:30pm – 11:00pm

3rd Shift: 10:30pm-7am Monday to Friday

Positions Needed:

• 13 per shift (1st, 2nd & 3rd) 8-hour shift
• Eligible starting December 2025 for 5% of base for annual incentive bonus
• Mechanical aptitude and basic maintenance skills.
• Decisive and proactive.
• Team players who adapt to change.
• English proficiency.

Summary

The Mechanically Trained Operator (MTO) plays a critical role within the production team, bridging operational efficiency and mechanical skills in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Reporting to the Operations Lead, the MTO will operate, maintain, and make minor adjustments to high-speed production equipment to minimize downtime, maximize productivity, and ensure high-quality standards. This role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and collaboration with production and maintenance teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Efficiency
• Operate high-speed packaging and production equipment to meet targets.
• Assist in equipment setup, changeovers, and adjustments to reduce downtime.
• Perform minor mechanical maintenance, such as clearing jams, tightening fasteners, and replacing simple components.
• Support efforts to improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE).

• Mechanical Support
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor mechanical issues, escalating complex problems.
• Conduct routine inspections, lubrication, and cleaning.
• Collaborate with maintenance for repairs and upkeep.

• Team Support & Employee Engagement
• Work with Packaging & Bakery Lead on production and equipment challenges.
• Provide feedback and suggest improvements.
• Foster teamwork and collaboration.

• Documentation & Reporting
• Record downtime, repairs, and maintenance activities.
• Track production throughput, material usage, and waste.

• Health, Safety & Compliance
• Follow OSHA, STATE, GMP, SQF, and HACCP standards.
• Participate in safety initiatives and report hazards.

Day-to-Day Essential Work:

• Operate and monitor equipment, making adjustments as needed.
• Collaborate to resolve issues and maintain operations.
• Perform minor mechanical adjustments and report during shift huddles.

Occasional Work:

• Develop and update SOPs for equipment operation and maintenance.
• Participate in Kaizen events and problem-solving activities.
• Conduct root cause analyses and implement corrective actions.
• Engage in projects for plant performance improvements.

Value Added Work:

• Contribute to a "Zero Loss Mindset" by eliminating inefficiencies.
• Suggest process and equipment improvements for continuous improvement.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Maximized Equipment Uptime
• Safety and Food Safety Compliance
• Production Efficiency
• Operational Reliability
• Continuous Improvement

Educational & Experience Requirements

• Experience: 1-2 years in manufacturing, preferably in speed packaging.
• Education: High school diploma or GED; technical training in industrial mechanics is a plus.
• English proficiency in written and oral communication.

Skills:

• Knowledge of mechanical systems (gears, bearings, sprockets).
• Proficiency with tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, calipers).
• Strong troubleshooting skills.
• Familiarity with CMMS and reporting tools is a plus.

Considered a Plus: Bilingual English & Spanish.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

• Plant engagement required; some office work.
• 9-hour shifts, some weekends.
• Physical activities include sitting, climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling.
• Lift up to 10lbs regularly, up to 25lbs frequently, and up to 50lbs occasionally.
• Exposure to hazards like compressed air, grinding, cutting, welding, heat, cold, confined spaces, noise, oils, and dust.

EEO Statement:

FFLLC provides equal employment opportunities based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. Discrimination based on protected characteristics is not tolerated.