Production Technician

JTEKT Automotive North America; Vonore (TN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

JTEKT Automotive North America in Vonore, TN is seeking a Production Technician for 2nd shift to operate and monitor machining and automated equipment, load components, run multiple processes, and perform quality inspections to ensure safe, high‑quality parts.

You will troubleshoot equipment, participate in Kaizen and 5S, rotate through lines, and support continuous improvement while adhering to strict safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous manufacturing or production experience is preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Load components into production machinery and automated equipment.
• Operate manufacturing equipment including washing, welding, boring, mounting, pressing, drilling, installation, and detection processes.
• Control machine operations using control panels, switches, and automated systems.
• Utilize the Andon call system to report equipment malfunctions, quality concerns, or production abnormalities.
• Monitor machine performance to ensure products meet established specifications and production requirements.
• Conduct visual inspections of parts to identify defects such as porosity, surface imperfections, cosmetic flaws, or damage.
• Read and interpret work instructions, process charts, graphs, blueprints, measuring instruments, and poka-yoke devices.
• Rotate among multiple production lines and machining processes as assigned.
• Replenish production materials and maintain adequate inventory levels at workstations.
• Perform 5S housekeeping activities, including sweeping, mopping, cleaning equipment, taping floors, and maintaining organized work areas.
• Participate in Kaizen events, Quality Circles, and other continuous improvement initiatives.
• Work overtime, weekends, and additional shifts as required to meet production demands.
• Perform other duties and special assignments as directed by management.

Skills

Verbal & written comms

Mathematical skills

Hand tools

Precision measuring tools

Reading blueprints & work instructions

Attention to detail

Independent work in team setting

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Hand tools

Precision measuring instruments

Reading instruments & gauges

Job description

Position Summary 2nd Shift- The Production Technician is responsible for operating and monitoring machining and automated manufacturing equipment to produce high-quality parts that meet safety, quality, and production standards. This role involves loading components, operating multiple production processes, performing quality inspections, troubleshooting equipment issues, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives while rotating through various manufacturing operations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Load components into production machinery and automated equipment.
• Operate manufacturing equipment including washing, welding, boring, mounting, pressing, drilling, installation, and detection processes.
• Control machine operations using control panels, switches, and automated systems.
• Utilize the Andon call system to report equipment malfunctions, quality concerns, or production abnormalities.
• Monitor machine performance to ensure products meet established specifications and production requirements.
• Conduct visual inspections of parts to identify defects such as porosity, surface imperfections, cosmetic flaws, or damage.
• Read and interpret work instructions, process charts, graphs, blueprints, measuring instruments, and poka-yoke devices.
• Rotate among multiple production lines and machining processes as assigned.
• Replenish production materials and maintain adequate inventory levels at workstations.
• Perform 5S housekeeping activities, including sweeping, mopping, cleaning equipment, taping floors, and maintaining organized work areas.
• Participate in Kaizen events, Quality Circles, and other continuous improvement initiatives.
• Work overtime, weekends, and additional shifts as required to meet production demands.
• Perform other duties and special assignments as directed by management.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic mathematical skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Ability to safely use hand tools and precision measuring instruments.
• Ability to read, understand, and apply information from work instructions, charts, graphs, blueprints, and visual aids.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify quality defects.
• Ability to maintain focus while performing repetitive tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.
• Basic understanding of quality, environmental, health, and safety management systems.
• Successful completion of required orientation and basic skills training within the first month of employment.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate required.
• Previous manufacturing or production experience is preferred but not required.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Excellent manual dexterity and fine motor skills.
• Ability to use both hands simultaneously while operating tools and equipment.
• Ability to walk approximately 6-7 miles during an 8-10-hour shift.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks throughout the workday.
• Ability to maintain concentration and consistent work pace while operating production equipment.
• Ability to perform repetitive assembly, handling, twisting, pressing, and turning motions approximately 600-750 times per shift.
• Ability to reach, grasp, pinch, bend, squat, stretch, push, pull, and lift throughout the shift.
• Ability to visually inspect products, equipment, labels, and work instructions.
• Ability to lift up to 32 pounds on a regular basis.
• Ability to work a minimum schedule of 8 hours per day, 5 days per week, with overtime and weekend work as required.