Nesting Technician

Etnyre International; Minonk (IL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Shift premium $2.50/hr

11 paid holidays

Paid time off

Benefits package

401(k) with match

Job summary

SMF in Minonk, IL is hiring a Nesting Technician to support production through nesting optimization, layout analysis, and continuous improvement. The role focuses on maximizing material utilization, reducing scrap, and aligning with manufacturing schedules.

Starting pay is $27.25 per hour with a base range of $25.25–$30.00 hourly. Employees receive a robust benefits package, annual wage increases, and shift premium opportunities. Apply to join a growing fabrication team.

Qualifications

• Two to three years of Nesting Technician experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience optimizing material utilization and reducing scrap.
• Ability to read technical drawings and blueprints.
• Familiarity with SigmaNEST and production control systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Create and optimize production nests using nesting software to support schedules and ensure on-time production.
• Monitor production requirements and flag risks to schedules.
• Analyze nesting layouts and material utilization to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
• Suggest routing and process improvements to cut costs and boost productivity.
• Coordinate just-in-time material sequencing to meet production demands.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Production to explore design/configuration changes.

Skills

Nesting experience

Material optimization

Blueprint reading

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Training others

Tools

SigmaNEST

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: SMF Minonk - Minonk, IL 61760, Salary Range: $25.25 - $30.00 Hourly, Job Category: Engineering, Join SMF - Where Your Career Takes Shape!

At SMF, we don't offer jobs—we build careers. As part of Etnyre International, we have a 50-year legacy in high-quality metal fabrication, serving industries like construction, power generation, agriculture, and mining.

Our reputation as a top-tier supplier to Fortune 500 OEMs comes from our dedicated team members, cutting-edge technology, and commitment to excellence.

With 200,000+ square feet of manufacturing capabilities across two locations, we handle everything from engineering and fabrication to finishing. Our recent partnership with Etnyre International has fueled even more growth and opportunity - we want YOU to be a part of it!

What We Offer – Total Rewards Package:

• ANNUAL BONUS for ALL team members
• ANNUAL Wage Increases to reward your dedication
• Competitive Pay Based on Experience
• $2.50/hour Shift Premium for 2nd and 3rd shift
• 11 Paid Holidays + 3 Additional Paid Holiday Break Days
• Generous Paid Time Off (Vacation & Flex Time)
• Excellent Benefits Package
• LOW-COST Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Company-Paid Life Insurance & Disability Coverage
• 401(k) with Employer Match & Profit Sharing
• Accident, Hospital, & Critical Illness Coverage Options

Now Hiring: Nesting Technician

Starting Pay: $27.25

Location: Minonk, IL

Position classification based on experience & pre-employment test results

What You’ll Do

Key Responsibilities

• Create and optimize production nests using production control and nesting software to support manufacturing schedules and ensure on-time production.
• Monitor production requirements and communicate proactively when schedules are at risk of being impacted.
• Analyze nesting layouts and material utilization to maximize efficiency, reduce waste, and improve overall production performance.
• Recommend routing and process improvements that enhance productivity and reduce manufacturing costs.
• Pull forward future production requirements, within inventory guidelines, to improve material usage and minimize handling.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Production teams to identify alternative part designs or configurations that improve material utilization.
• Evaluate and optimize raw material stock sizes to reduce scrap and support cost-saving initiatives.
• Coordinate just-in-time material sequencing and delivery to meet production demands while maximizing operational efficiency.
• Monitor and communicate daily raw material requirements to the Purchasing team.
• Maintain and manage remnant inventory to ensure effective material control and utilization.
• Balance machine workloads and determine the most cost-effective manufacturing methods across available equipment and processes.
• Modify part programs and nesting configurations as needed to support production requirements and process improvements.
• Work closely with shop floor personnel to quickly address machine downtime, production interruptions, and other operational challenges.
• Lead troubleshooting and problem-solving efforts related to scrap reduction, material utilization, and prototype production.
• Train and mentor new Nesting Technicians on systems, processes, and best practices.
• Partner with management, engineering teams, and external vendors to resolve nesting and manufacturing-related issues.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, quality, cost reduction, and operational excellence.
• Perform additional duties and projects as assigned to support business objectives.

What You’ll Bring

• Specific knowledge of laser, plasma, and flame cutting processes, including experience working with burn tables and related fabrication equipment.
• Two to three years of experience as a Nesting Technician in a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in optimizing material utilization, reducing scrap, and supporting production schedules through effective nesting practices.
• Working knowledge of part programming software, preferably SigmaNEST, and experience utilizing production control systems.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, blueprints, flat patterns, work orders, and material specifications with a high degree of accuracy.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes, sheet metal fabrication, and material flow within a production environment.
• Familiarity with basic metallurgical properties and their impact on cutting, forming, and manufacturing processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify process improvements and cost-saving opportunities.
• Experience balancing machine workloads and determining the most efficient and cost-effective manufacturing methods.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate with Production, Engineering, Purchasing, and Management teams.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to quality.
• Proficiency with personal computers and standard business software applications.
• Demonstrated ability to train, mentor, and support the development of other team members.
• A continuous improvement mindset with a focus on safety, efficiency, quality, and operational excellence.

Why Join SMF?

• Work for a company that is in the top ½ percent of machine shops nationwide
• Be part of a fast-growing organization with state-of-the-art manufacturing
• Take pride in contributing to high-quality, Fortune 500 OEM projects