Production Operator I Wire Mill

Rochester Cable Inc.; Culpeper, Northern (VA, KY); Hybrid; USD 20,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Rochester Cable Inc. in Culpeper, VA 22701 is seeking a Full Time Manufacturing Machine Operator. The role focuses on set up, operation, and monitoring of processes on one or more machines, with documentation of steps per standard work and job specifications.

Responsibilities include equipment setup, material handling, quality checks, process monitoring, and accurate record-keeping. Night shift, High School diploma required; prior machine operator experience desirable.

Qualifications

• Requires a high level of attention to detail; accuracy is critical in measurements and documentation.
• Experience documenting production steps and results per standard work instructions.
• Ability to communicate status, issues, and changes across shifts.

Responsibilities

• Machine setup and operation according to job specifications.
• Material handling: load/unload spools, reels, and rods safely.
• Perform in-process quality checks and measure critical dimensions.
• Monitor machines for jams, misfeeds, and proper tension/alignment; adjust within parameters.
• Document production data, spool/lot numbers, and test results; complete travelers and inspection forms.
• Communicate with QA and supervisors; pass down conditions during shift changes.
• Perform basic maintenance and keep work area clean and safe; report safety concerns.

Skills

Attention to detail

Documentation

Team communication

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Micrometers

Calipers

Quality gauges

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Culpeper, VA 22701

Position Type: Full Time

Education Level: High School

Salary Range: $18.00 Hourly

Travel Percentage: None

Job Shift: Night

Job Category: Manufacturing

Job Summary

This role is primarily focused on the set up, operation, and monitoring of processes on one or more machines. Associates will also complete required documentation of process steps per standard work and job specifications.

Essential Job Duties/Functions (Not all inclusive):

Machine Setup and Operation

• Prepare and set up equipment according to job specifications
• Verify correct materials and tooling are loaded
• Perform pre-operational checks and ensure safety guards are in place

Material Handling

• Load/unload spools, reels, and rods safely and efficiently
• Stage materials as required per job traveler
• Ensure correct rod types and components are used for specific cable constructions

In-Process Quality Checks

• Cut and submit samples to QA as required by standard work (e.g., after setup, each spool, or per shift)
• Visually inspect cable for defects (e.g., insulation damage, misalignment, surface contamination)
• Use micrometers, calipers, or other gauges to measure critical dimensions

Process Monitoring

• Watch machines closely during production for jams, misfeeds, or other abnormalities
• Monitor for correct tension, alignment, and application of armor, tape, or jacketing
• Adjust settings as necessary within authorized parameters

Documentation & Traceability

• Accurately record production data, spool numbers, lot numbers, and test results
• Complete job travelers and inspection forms
• Report production output and any deviations or nonconformances

Communication & Handoffs

• Communicate clearly with QA, supervisors, and other shifts regarding status, issues, or changes
• Document and pass down in-process conditions during shift change

Maintenance & Housekeeping

• Perform minor machine maintenance and cleaning (e.g., clearing wire paths, changing tooling)
• Keep work area clean, organized, and free from trip hazards
• Report any machine malfunctions or safety concerns immediately

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all safety protocols including PPE requirements
• Lockout/tagout as required
• Follow all standard work, process instructions, and quality procedures
• Additional duties as assigned

QualificationsEducation

High School Diploma or GED preferred

Work Experience

Prior experience as a manufacturing machine operator is desirable

Required & Preferred Skills and Competencies

Requires a high degree of attention to detail, as even small errors can result in significant problems during the manufacturing process.

Work Environment

The work environment and physical demands described here represent those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation.

The work setting is in a typical manufacturing environment that requires the use of personal protective equipment including safety-toe shoes with metatarsal guards, safety glasses, and hearing protection. Manufacturing areas may be affected by outside temperatures and machining.

Physical Demands

The physical demands represent those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Must be able to: sit, kneel, crouch, stoop, stand, walk, climb ramps and/or stairs; read and write, work with a computer and keyboard; hear, understand, and distinguish speech and/or other sounds (e.g., machinery, sirens, and alarms); speak to express or exchange ideas, impart oral information to include instructions; vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, peripheral and depth perception.

Must be able to lift up to 35 pounds.