Operator Mechanic - 1st Shift

Jl Clark; Rockford (IL); On-site; USD 38,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

J.L. Clark is seeking an Operator Mechanic for the 1st shift in Rockford, IL. You will install, set up, and operate fabrication equipment, perform quality checks, and handle routine maintenance to keep lines productive. A high school diploma and prior manufacturing experience are preferred.

This full-time role emphasizes safety, teamwork, and attention to detail as you work with state-of-the-art presses and tools to keep manufacturing on schedule and quality high.

Qualifications

• Prior manufacturing experience, including machine operation and entry level maintenance work.
• Preferred: blank and draw/body making machines, computer driven logic programs, and use of technical measurement tools and gauges.

Responsibilities

• Die Setter: install, adjust and maintain fabrication equipment; set up and maintain efficient production; read drawings for proper installation.
• Machine Operator: operate the line, perform quality checks, hourly counts, jam removal, routine maintenance, diagnose tooling issues.
• Maintenance of Equipment: keep tools and equipment in good condition; notify for service; record PM tasks.
• Troubleshooting: resolve issues affecting quality/performance; respond to deviations.
• House keeping: keep areas safe, clean and organized; manage inventories and re-warehousing.
• Safety: follow safety rules; report hazards to supervisor.
• Duties as Assigned: perform tasks as directed by supervisor/leads.

Skills

Manufacturing experience

Machine operation

Maintenance

Education

High School diploma

Job description

Operator Mechanic - 1st Shift

Overview

Rockford Metals - Rockford, IL 61104

Salary Range: $27.55 - $28.97 Hourly

Level: Experienced

Position Type: Full Time

Job Shift: Any Shift

Education Level: High School

Travel Percentage: None

Category: Manufacturing

Description

At J.L. Clark, we don’t just make packaging, we help build iconic brands. Since 1904, we've blended craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to deliver packaging solutions that stand out on shelves and stand the test of time. With more than 120 years of experience behind us, our passion for quality, service, and innovation is stronger than ever.

As we grow, so does our investment in the future. From our new 6-color printing press and injection molding presses to advanced rapid prototyping and high-speed fabrication systems, we’re committed to staying at the forefront of packaging technology.

Sustainability is more than a goal, it’s part of who we are. As the first North American metal lithographer to earn SGP Certification, and a multiple-time recipient of the Illinois Governor’s Sustainability Award, we take pride in building a better tomorrow.

Come be part of a company where tradition meets transformation, and where your work truly makes an impact.

Position summary

Is capable of performing all duties and responsibilities required for Die Setting and Machine Operating. Without supervision is capable of installing, adjusting and maintaining all fabrication equipment including the most complex equipment within assigned department or area. Offers recommendations and is consulted on improved methods or alternatives to tools and production lines.

Education, Training & Experience:

• Education equivalent to vocational or high school which could include short specialty courses.

qualifications

**Required**

• Prior manufacturing experience, including machine operation and entry level maintenance work.

**Preferred**

• Prior experience with blank and draw/body making machines, computer driven logic programs, and use of technical measurement tools and gauges within tight tolerances. Experience in reading engineering prints.

Relationships:

Inspection, Machine Shop, Tool Room, Maintenance, and Fabrication personnel.

Supervisory RESPONSIBILITIES:

None

Supervised By:

Lead die setter/fabrication manager

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Duties normal to the job: (listed by importance)

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Die Setter Capable of installing, adjusting and maintaining all fabrication equipment. Responsible for setting up and maintaining efficient production of assigned equipment. Recommends to supervisor and is consulted on improved methods or alterations to tools and production lines. Is able to read and interpret product and tool engineering drawings so proper installation of new and/or existing tools and production lines is accomplished.
• Machine Operator Must be capable of and is responsible for operating the line to which they are assigned. Including all quality checks, hourly counts, pulling jam, daily service to the production line, and diagnose/resolve minor tooling issues related to the integrity of the product.
• Maintenance of Equipment Is responsible for the condition and maintenance of tools and equipment should be clean and in proper operating condition prior to storage. Supervisor and lead die setter should be apprised of conditions requiring tool room, machine shop, or maintenance service. Is able to perform appropriate level Professional Maintenance (PM) tasks and record findings and track scheduling in EMaintenance.
• Troubleshooting It is required to perform troubleshooting to resolve issues related to both quality and performance. Die setter/machine operators a required to be reactive to quality checks and performance counts which deviate from the standards for the line they are operating in order to make necessary adjustments and resolve deviations from standard.
• House keeping Keeps departmental work areas, aisles, and storage areas safe, orderly and free of obstructions. Must properly store items so maximum use of area is accomplished. Also responsible for general housekeeping, inventories and re-warehousing. This includes sweeping on a regular basis when needed/instructed.
• Safety Responsible for observing safety rules at all times. Reports unsafe conditions immediately to their supervisor. Reports any and all dropped/spilled loads.
• Duties as Assigned Duties assigned by their supervisor/leads