Production Associate

JTEKT Column Systems NA; Bronson Township (MI); On-site; USD 21,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

JTEKT Column Systems NA in Michigan is seeking a production associate to efficiently operate plant equipment and inspect products during manufacturing. The role emphasizes safety, quality, and teamwork as you support daily production goals.

You will perform pre-operation checks, conduct basic maintenance, and contribute to process improvements while adhering to 5S and safety standards. Weekend and extended hours may be required as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required or equivalency.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to handle basic machining tasks preferred.
• Ability to work in a team and follow standard operating procedures.

Responsibilities

• Operate production equipment as assigned by the Team Leader.
• Perform quality checks during the manufacturing process.
• Carry out preventive maintenance as required.
• Conduct pre-operation checks on machines and equipment.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Follow safety and security procedures at all times.
• Provide feedback for safety, quality, and process improvements.
• Present yourself professionally and collaborate with teammates.
• Contribute to a positive team environment and assist as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Team Leader.
• Explain problems with machines/processes and participate in corrective actions.
• Track and report daily Morning Market data/results.

Skills

Team player

Mechanical background

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

1 REPORTING RELATIONSHIP

Reports to the Production Team Leader.

2 PURPOSE

• 2.1 Function: To efficiently operate plant equipment, and inspection equipment used in the quality manufacturing of automobile directional control system components.
• 2.2 Authority:
  • 2.2.1 Associates have the authority to stop the production process for quality concerns and safety issues.
  • 2.2.2 Associates have the authority to initiate a Non-conformance report for daily line rejects (scrap / teardown recording).
  • 2.2.3 Associates have the authority to document and disposition non-conforming material with an existing scrap or rework code.

3 Duties And Responsibilities

• 3.1 Operate production equipment as assigned by Team Leader.
• 3.2 Perform quality checks as required in the product process.
• 3.3 Perform preventative maintenance as required.
• 3.4 Perform pre-operation checks on machines and equipment.
• 3.5 Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• 3.6 Observe and follow all safety and security procedures.
• 3.7 Offer feedback and input for safety, quality, and process improvements.
• 3.8 Present / conduct self in a professional manner (treating your teammates with dignity and respect).
• 3.9 Contribute to building a positive team spirit.
• 3.10 Perform all other duties as assigned by Team Leader.
• 3.11 Ability to explain problems with machine/processes and take part in the corrective action of the issue.
• 3.12 Track and maintain daily Morning Market data/results.

4 MEASUREMENTS/COMPETENCIES

• 4.1 Production efficiency.
• 4.2 Quality of work performed.
• 4.3 Attendance record.
• 4.4 Ability to work with others (teamwork).
• 4.5 Safety record.
• 4.6 Housekeeping (5S).
• 4.7 Internal/external customer satisfaction.
• 4.8 Training record (OJT and Training Center). Ability to learn and apply new skills.
• 4.9 Ability to identify issues and suggest improvement.

5 SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITY

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

6 WORK ENVIRONMENT

The employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. May occasionally work in hot or cold temperatures. May occasionally walk on slippery or uneven surfaces.

7 Qualifications

• 7.1 Require high school diploma or G.E.D.
• 7.2 Must be a team player.
• 7.3 Prefer individuals with mechanical backgrounds or who have mechanical abilities.

8 PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• 8.1 Prolonged periods of standing and performing repetitive tasks.
• 8.2 Must be able to lift up to 32 pounds at a time.
• 8.3 Must have manual dexterity in order to assemble products or machines as directed.
• 8.4 Must have excellent hand-eye coordination.
• 8.5 Ability to differentiate between colored wires, tabs, and electronic components.
• 8.6 Must wear gloves, safety glasses, safety shoes, and ear protection, per the Elemental Operations Instructions Safety Points.

9 POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

This is a full time position. Typical days and hours of work are Monday through Friday. This position regularly requires extended hours and possible weekend work.

10 TRAVEL

Travel may be required.

11 DISCLAIMER

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

12 AAP/EEO STATEMENT

It is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all qualified individuals without regard to their race, color, religion, national origin, age or sex in all personnel actions including recruitment, evaluation, selection, promotion, compensation, training and termination. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job duties.

Employee signature below constitutes the employee’s understanding of the requirements, essential functions and duties of the position.