Sort Machine Operator

Relyans Max.; Lapeer (MI); On-site; USD 22,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Relyans Max. in Michigan is seeking a Sorting Machine Operator (Qualifying) to set up, operate, and monitor automated sorting equipment used to inspect automotive fasteners for defects. You will ensure only conforming product ships to customers in line with IATF 16949 and internal procedures.

The role involves performing changeovers, calibration, and data entry while maintaining safety and quality on the production floor. Teamwork and attention to detail are essential to success.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Able to lift up to 30 lbs continuously.
• Basic math skills; able to read and write.
• Punctual, reliable, and team-oriented.
• Troubleshooting and finetuning skills.
• Ability to do data entry in computer systems.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate automated sorting and inspection equipment including Mectron, Linear, and similar sorting systems.
• Perform product changeovers, sensor setup, and machine calibration.
• Stage the proper boxes, totes, bags, parts, packaging instructions, etc.
• Verify batch numbers and machine settings using approved work instructions, control plans, and inspection standards.
• Monitor sorting equipment performance to ensure accurate detection and separation of nonconforming product and report machine fallout.
• Maintain required paperwork specific to each product’s sorting instructions.
• Segregate and properly identify suspect or nonconforming material.
• Respond to machine alarms, jams, false rejects, or equipment malfunctions and coordinate repairs with maintenance when necessary.

Skills

Data entry

Reading & writing

Basic math

Punctual & reliable

Team oriented

Troubleshooting

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Sorting Machine Operator (Qualifying)

Grade: 4

Reports to: Supervisor, Qualifying Department: Qualifying

Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt Division: Qualifying

Date: 05/14/2026 Approved: Sr. Manager, Logistics

JOB SUMMARY

The Sorting Machine Operator is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining automated sorting equipment used to inspect automotive fasteners for dimensional, visual, and functional defects. This position supports quality and production objectives by ensuring only conforming product is shipped to customers in accordance with customer-specific requirements, IATF 16949 standards, and internal quality procedures.

The operator works with automated inspection systems including Mectron, Linear, vision-based, laser, and other sorting equipment. The operator performs machine, manual, or visual inspections for specific defects or foreign material on a variety of parts manufactured both internally and by outside suppliers.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Set up and operate automated sorting and inspection equipment including Mectron, Linear, and similar sorting systems.
• Perform product changeovers, sensor setup, and machine calibration.
• Stage the proper boxes, totes, bags, parts, packaging instructions, etc.
• Verify batch numbers and machine settings using approved work instructions, control plans, and inspection standards.
• Monitor sorting equipment performance to ensure accurate detection and separation of nonconforming product and report machine fallout.
• Maintain required paperwork specific to each product’s sorting instructions.
• Segregate and properly identify suspect or nonconforming material.
• Respond to machine alarms, jams, false rejects, or equipment malfunctions and coordinate repairs with maintenance when necessary.
• Operate electric and hydraulic pallet jacks.
• Operate and set up scales.
• Support containment activities, quality sorting initiatives, and hand-pack or repack jobs.
• Perform 5S activities (general housekeeping and organization).
• Perform machine purges to ensure the equipment is ready for the next job in.
• Review communications boards and Quality Visual Aida (QVAs).
• Communicate with material handlers to support continuous machine operations.
• Ensure compliance with customer quality requirements and internal procedures.
• Follow all safety requirements including lockout/tagout, PPE, and housekeeping standards.
• Assist with continuous improvement activities focused on quality, efficiency, scrap reduction, and uptime.
• Support production schedules and overtime requirements as needed.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Physically able to lift, bend, stoop, climb, stand for long periods, and reach.
• Able to lift up to 30 lbs continuously throughout an 8-hour shift.
• Basic math skills.
• Must be able to read and write.
• Punctual, reliable, and team-oriented.
• Troubleshooting and finetuning skils.
• Ability to do data entry in computer systems.

ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES

• Noise – Laboratory machines.
• Chemicals, oils, acids, sprays, coolants and solvents.
• Noise – heavy machinery – if in plant.
• Noise – vibratory bowls and air feed systems – if in plant.
• Responsible for complying with regulations and standards covered under MISOSHA as well as not damaging, moving, interfering or removed any safety related item that is provided.

ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support and comply with the organization’s Environmental Management System (EMS) in accordance with ISO 14001 standards.
• Perform job duties in a manner that minimizes environmental impact, including responsible use of energy, chemicals, and materials.
• Follow all environmental procedures, work instructions, and regulatory requirements applicable to the role.
• Promptly report environmental risks, spills, nonconformances, or improvement opportunities to leadership.
• Participate in environmental training and continuous improvement initiatives that enhance environmental performance.
• Follow established procedures for proper handling, storage, and disposal of scrap, chemicals, and regulated materials.
• Support spill prevention, containment, and response practices.
• Operate equipment in accordance with environmental and safety requirements.
• Contribute to initiatives that reduce landfill, improve recycling, and improve resource efficiency.

Employees are responsible for understanding the environmental and safety policies as related to their job functions and performing work in a manner consistent with the company’s environmental and safety policies.