Machine Operator - 1st Shift

What You’ll Do

• Set up, operate, and monitor specialized machinery to meet production schedules and specifications.
• Inspect production parts for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and conformance to automotive quality standards.
• Record production data, quantities produced, scrap, and machine parameters accurately.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance, cleaning, and basic troubleshooting to minimize downtime.
• Absorb mold changes, machine setup, and tooling adjustments.
• Wrap, protect, label, and package finished parts according to customer and shipping requirements.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols
• Maintain a clean, organized workstation and support 5S and lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Communicate production issues, quality concerns, and improvement opportunities to supervision.
• Work independently with minimal supervision; demonstrate initiative to improve efficiency and quality.
• Adhere consistently to attendance/punctuality, safety, and other company policies

Education & Experience requirements

• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• At least 2+ years of operating soft trim equipment and/or injection molding machines within the automotive industry (or similar environments).
• Experience with soft trim part finesse and manual edge-folding is preferred.
• Knowledge of plastic materials, molding parameters, and basic machine troubleshooting; ability to read work instructions and basic engineering drawings.
• Ability to operate forklift.
• Self-starter; efficient; dependable; strong attention to detail; commitment to safety and quality.
• An interest in developing within the company (learning new skills or growth opportunities).
• Willingness to work required shifts, overtime, and adhere to company attendance policies.
• Experience with statistical process control (SPC), poka-yoke, or process documentation.
• Certification or training in injection molding equipment, mechanical aptitude, or forklift operation.
• Familiarity with automotive PPAP, APQP, or ISO IATF quality requirements.
• Knowledge of molding presses, automated handling systems, robotic equipment, and inspection tools.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Experience with soft trim part finesse and manual edge-folding preferred.
• Knowledge of plastic materials, molding parameters, and basic machine troubleshooting; ability to read work instructions and basic engineering drawings.
• Ability to operate forklift.
• Self-starter; efficient; dependable; strong attention to detail; commitment to safety and quality.
• An interest in developing within the company (learning new skills or growth opportunities).
• Willingness to work required shifts, overtime, and adhere to company attendance policies.
• Experience with statistical process control (SPC), poka-yoke, or process documentation.
• Certification or training in injection molding equipment, mechanical aptitude, or forklift operation.
• Familiarity with automotive PPAP, APQP, or ISO IATF quality requirements.
• Knowledge of molding presses, automated handling systems, robotic equipment, and inspection tools.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Lift up to 50 lbs.
• Perform repetitive motions.
• Work in a manufacturing environment.