Operations Specialist - Automation Line (2nd Shift Servo)

Woodward Inc.; Loves Park (IL); On-site; USD 37,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match

Stock contributions

Tuition reimbursement

Paid holidays

Medical, dental, vision insurance

Parental leave

EAP

Job summary

Woodward Inc. is seeking an Operations Specialist to manage and support the automation and robotics line at the Rock Cut Campus in Loves Park, IL. The role is on 2nd shift, Monday through Friday, 2:00pm–10:00pm, with a strong emphasis on troubleshooting automation equipment and process improvements.

Ideal candidates will have experience with CNC processes, GD&T, and ERP systems, and will contribute to safety, quality, and continuous improvement initiatives within a manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in managing and troubleshooting automation and robotics production lines.
• Knowledge of basic preventative maintenance for automation machines.
• Strong computer skills and data entry in databases/order portals.

Responsibilities

• Execute technical processes to ensure efficient daily operations in a focused area.
• Support continuous improvement through data analysis and SOP updates.
• Ensure quality by timely disposition and solving production problems; implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate to resolve complex operational issues following guidelines.
• Maintain safety by following protocols and promoting a safe work area.

Skills

CNC machining

GD&T

Blueprints & BOMs

Root cause analysis

Lean manufacturing

ERP systems

Technical communication

Process mapping

Machine maintenance

Quality standards (AS9100/ISO 9001)

Safety procedures

Team collaboration

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

## Operations Specialist - Automation Line (2nd Shift Servo)Apply: Rockford - Rock Cut Campus (RCC): Full time: Posted Today: End Date: October 7, 2026 (5 days left to apply): JR113599Woodward is committed to creating a great workplace for all team members. Our company and its members are committed to acting with integrity, being respectful and accountable to one another, and staying humble and driven, while maintaining the highest professional and ethical standards.We are steadfastly committed to attracting the best talent across our communities creating a rewarding workplace. Together we are fulfilling our purpose to design and deliver energy control solutions our partners count on to power a clean future.**Woodward supports our members’ wellbeing and regularly benchmarks with other companies in our industry to offer an extensive Total Reward package for this position.** Salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.* Estimated hourly base pay: $27.40 – $35.58 Plus 10% shift premium**All Levels are eligible for the benefits below:*** All members included in annual cash bonus opportunity.* 401(k) match (4.5%)* Annual Woodward stock contribution (5%)* Tuition reimbursement and Training/Professional Development opportunities for all members* 12 paid holidays, including floating holidays.* Industry leading medical, dental, and vision Insurance upon date of hire* Vacation / Sick Time / Vacation Buy-up / Short Term Disability / Bereavement leave.* Paid parental leave.* Adoption Assistance* Employee Assistance Program, including mental health benefits.* Member Life & AD&D / Long Term Disability / Member Optional Life* Member referral bonus* Spouse / Child Optional Life / Optional AD&D / Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending* Voluntary benefits, including: + Home / Auto Insurance discounts + Whole Life Insurance / Critical Illness Insurance / Legal Assistance / Military LeaveWoodward is hiring for an Operations Specialist to manage and support the automation and robotics line at our Rock Cut Campus in Loves Park, IL. This position is on 2nd Shift, Monday – Friday, 2:00pm – 10:00pm. Individuals with experience in supporting and troubleshooting automation and robotics production lines should apply now!**Key Responsibilities:*** Execute Technical Processes: Implements and maintains technical procedures to ensure efficient daily operations in a focused area/process.* Continuous Improvement: Analyzes production data and updates standardized operating procedures to ensure consistent workflow.* Quality: Timely disposition and problem solving for production problems. Implements corrective actions to prevent recurrence.* Resolve Complex Issues: Participates in problem solving to provide solutions for atypical or infrequent operational problems based on established guidelines.* Safety Mindset: Adheres to and actively supports all established safety protocols, procedures, and regulatory requirements; maintains mindfulness of self and surrounding work area to promote a safe working environment.**Key Skills:*** Technical Knowledge: Understanding of complex manufacturing processes (e.g., CNC machining, precision assembly, or test equipment). Knowledge of AS9100 or ISO 9001 quality standards. Solid blueprint and GD&T understanding. Ability to interpret engineering drawings, BOMs, and specifications.* Analytical Skills: Knowledgeable in applying analytical methodologies to operational processes. Experience with process mapping, value stream analysis, and root cause tools (5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams). Participates continuous improvement initiatives.* Mechanical Aptitude: Utilize solid understanding of manufacturing processes (mechanical disassembly/reassembly, CNC machine operations, testing) to support and mentor operations members. Proficiency with mechanical tools and measurement instruments and mechanical components. Understanding how tooling impacts repeatability, precision, and cycle time. Knowledge of mechanical assembly techniques and processes.* Communication: Communicates effectively with team members and supervisors to support workflow and escalate immediate issues. Clearly conveys (verbal and written) advanced technical information and ideas effectively with all operations members. Demonstrates Woodward's Core Values* Time Management: Efficiently manages personal workload to meet deadlines and team goals.* Lean Mindset: Understanding of Lean principles and how they apply in a manufacturing environment. Supports standardized work and willing to learn and apply process improvements.* Production Systems: Champions standardized work and provides timely support to production escalations. Actively participates the daily management system. Proficiency in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and uses production software and tools to complete daily tasks.* Computer Skills: Advanced ability to use basic software (e.g., email, spreadsheets, data entry tools) to complete tasks. Proficiency in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.* Detail-Oriented: Ability to review and maintain BOMs, work instructions, and process documentation with a high level of accuracy. Ability to interpret engineering drawings and ensuring alignment with production specs. Identifies and corrects minor deviations before they escalate into major issues.* Collaboration: Works cooperatively with team members to support overall team objectives and workflow. Works well with others and accepts feedback. Works seamlessly within team structures to achieve collective objectives.**Additional Requirements:**Moderate physical activity requires agility and dexterity, including walking, standing, or bending; and lifting or moving objects. Work is performed in an area with moderate risk or discomfort that may require special safety precautions, such as wearing protective clothing or gear. May be required to pass Near Vision and/or Color Vision examinations.**Successful candidates typically have:*** Experience managing and troubleshooting automation and robotics production line* Knowledge of basic preventative maintenance and repairs of automation machines* Solid computer skills, working with company databases and order portals to release production orders* Effective time management and organizational abilities* Problem-solving mindset with critical thinking skills* Willingness to embrace change and adapt to new environments* Keen attention to detail* Excellent written and verbal communication skillsThis position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). All applicants must be U.S. Persons within the meaning of the ITAR and EAR, or eligible to obtain all required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce. The ITAR defines a U.S. Person as a U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident (i.e., 'Green Card holder'), or a protected person (e.g., asylee, or refugee).