Lead Operations Manufacturing Mechanic

BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies, advancing the world of health through transformative solutions. We combine imagination and passion to turn the impossible into possibilities.

About the role

As a Lead Operations Manufacturing Mechanic, you will operate, set up, adjust, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain all departmental production equipment. You will provide leadership and training for associates on the production floor and collaborate with machine shop personnel to improve equipment operation and processes.

Responsibilities

• Operate, set up, adjust, troubleshoot, and repair all departmental production equipment to ensure production, quality, downtime, and waste targets are met.
• Provide informal leadership in a team environment, training and advising technical associates on proper equipment set-ups and repairs.
• Train technical associates in methodical problem-solving techniques.
• Collaborate with engineering and Automation Control Technicians to complete required projects.
• Use resources such as engineering, machine shop, production, and maintenance departments as needed.
• Organize and direct improvement projects to increase equipment utilization, working with area engineers, manufacturing supervisors, and other resources.
• Audit preventative maintenance (PM) procedures and activities of technical associates and other operations associates.
• Document PM audits electronically and report to supervisors for corrective actions.
• Analyze equipment failures to modify or update PM work orders.
• Set up and debug equipment to documented specifications; report deviations to supervisors or engineering.
• Maintain equipment to produce products within specified quality and quantity limits, including adjusting, troubleshooting, cleaning, and repairing as necessary.
• Maintain equipment logs, recording downtime and maintenance issues with clear, legible handwriting.
• Report major equipment problems to supervisors and coordinate maintenance activities with the Maintenance Department, Engineering, or other technical resources.
• Perform preventative maintenance as specified in the PM program or as needed for smooth operation.
• Track and audit PMs to ensure completion and closure in the SAP system.
• Turn on machines and verify proper functioning of machines and control panels, ensuring safety guards are in place and working.
• Verify part tracks/rails are clean to ensure free travel of component parts.
• Monitor production machinery to ensure top performance.
• Support upstream and downstream operations.
• Maintain toolbox and surrounding area in a neat and clean condition.
• Verify cleanliness of equipment in surrounding areas during the shift.
• Perform other duties as required.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED (required).
• Associate’s degree in Advanced Mechatronics Technology (preferred).
• Completed coursework in schematics, basic principles of mechanics, industrial electricity, problem-solving for mechanical applications, or introduction to industrial technology (preferred; relevant experience may substitute).
• Minimum of 1 year in a Set-up or Technical Associate role or equivalent.
• Mechanical proficiency with foundational knowledge in troubleshooting cams, cam-followers, rod-ends, bushings, chain drives, conveyors, gearboxes, vacuum systems, pneumatic and hydraulic systems, and ball-valves.
• Proficient with basic hand tools and measuring tools such as feeler gauges, torque wrenches, and clearance gauges.
• Basic electrical knowledge and experience with PLCs (Allen Bradley preferred).
• Previous leadership roles or supervisory experience (preferred).

Skills

• Strong computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Experience with email systems and digital communication platforms.
• Ability to learn and navigate business and technical systems such as SAP, Root Cause Analysis tools, Tiered Management Systems (TMS), Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) platforms, and KPI tracking tools.

Physical Requirements

• Mobility: Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and climb stairs or ladders throughout the shift.
• Strength & Endurance: Must lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularly without assistance; push/pull heavy equipment or carts as needed.
• Dexterity & Coordination: Manual dexterity to operate tools, controls, and machinery with precision; good hand-eye coordination for troubleshooting and repairs.
• Communication: Clear verbal communication for team coordination, safety alerts, and equipment troubleshooting.
• Environmental Exposure: May be exposed to elevated temperatures, humidity, loud noise (hearing protection required), and chemical substances (with appropriate PPE).
• Ability to safely navigate tight spaces and elevated platforms.
• Willingness to wear required PPE, including steel-toe shoes, safety glasses, gloves, and ear protection.
• Comfortable working in both solo and team-based environments.

Additional Expectations

• This is a fully on-site role inside a manufacturing facility.
• Able and willing to work any shift, including 12-hour night shifts.

Why Join Us?

At BD, you’ll discover a culture where face-to-face collaboration supports learning, progress, and success. We welcome people with imagination and drive to help reinvent the future of healthcare. Join us to find purpose in the possibilities and thrive in a company that values growth and innovation.

Primary work location: USA SC - Sumter.