Production Operator
About the role
WireCo® is the strength behind the world’s evolution, creating premium ropes through deep legacy and forward thinking. Our global footprint includes manufacturing plants, distribution facilities, and research and development centers worldwide. The Production Operator is a versatile, cross-functional team member responsible for supporting a variety of manufacturing operations, including fabrication, material handling, inventory management, shipping and receiving, and general production activities. This role contributes to the safe, efficient, and timely production of high-quality products while maintaining a strong commitment to safety, quality, continuous improvement, and customer satisfaction.
Production Operators are expected to develop proficiency across multiple work areas and adapt to changing production priorities to support operational flexibility. Success in this role requires a strong work ethic, attention to detail, a willingness to learn new skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Employees must exhibit the behaviors of the WireCo Business System (WBS): Teamwork, Accountable, Self-Aware, Noble Intent, Determined, Transparent, and Curious.
Responsibilities
- Perform a variety of production, fabrication, material handling, inventory, shipping, receiving, and warehouse activities as assigned.
- Fabricate, assemble, package, inspect, and prepare products in accordance with work instructions and quality standards.
- Operate production equipment, machinery, hand tools, and power tools safely and efficiently.
- Load, unload, move, stage, and transport raw materials, work-in-process, and finished goods throughout the facility.
- Receive incoming materials and verify quantities, product identification, and documentation.
- Prepare and package finished products for shipment while ensuring compliance with customer and company requirements.
- Accurately perform inventory transactions using scanners, computers, ERP systems, or other inventory management tools.
- Maintain inventory accuracy through proper material identification, storage, and movement.
- Read and interpret work orders, production schedules, shipping documents, packing lists, and work instructions.
- Perform routine quality inspections using measuring devices and visual inspection techniques.
- Follow ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) procedures, standard operating procedures, and documented work instructions.
- Complete production, inventory, quality, and shipping documentation accurately and timely.
- Identify, contain, and report product or process nonconformities to leadership.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives including Lean Manufacturing, 5S, waste reduction, and process improvement activities.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
- Operate forklifts, pallet jacks, overhead cranes, or other material handling equipment as trained and authorized.
- Assist with equipment setup, changeovers, and basic preventative maintenance activities as assigned.
- Cross-train in multiple operational areas and perform duties across departments based on production requirements.
- Work collaboratively with production, maintenance, quality, warehouse, and shipping teams to achieve production and customer service goals.
- Follow all company policies, safety procedures, environmental regulations, and applicable federal, state, and local requirements.
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Requirements
- High School Diploma, GED, or ability to demonstrate basic literacy and math proficiency through education, experience, or assessment.
- Ability to safely perform a variety of manufacturing and warehouse functions.
- Mechanical aptitude and ability to learn multiple manufacturing processes.
- Ability to read and interpret work instructions, production schedules, and technical documents.
- Basic math skills including counting, measuring, weighing, and calculating quantities.
- Ability to accurately complete production and inventory documentation.
- Working knowledge of quality systems and manufacturing best practices.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality products.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to prioritize work and adapt to changing production demands.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
- Willingness to continuously learn new skills and support cross-functional operations.
Preferred Qualifications
- One to three years of manufacturing, production, fabrication, warehouse, logistics, or industrial experience.
- Experience operating manufacturing equipment or production machinery.
- Experience with shipping, receiving, inventory control, or material handling.
- Experience using ERP or warehouse management systems.
- Forklift experience or certification.
Skills
Material and equipment directly used:
- Personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed safety shoes.
- All production equipment including, but not limited to cut track, swager, press, coiler, hoist, and fork truck.
- All measuring devices, which include, but are not limited to: ring gages, hardness tester, tape measure, micrometers, dial calipers, proof loaders, etc.
Working Conditions
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during a 10–12-hour shift.
- Frequently lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to bend, squat, kneel, climb, reach, twist, and perform repetitive movements.
- Ability to safely operate machinery and material handling equipment.
- Ability to work in varying temperatures, noise levels, and typical manufacturing conditions.
- Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Benefits
- Competitive compensation and benefits package, including wages plus bonus program.
- Paid time off and paid holidays.
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- 100% company-paid life insurance.
- 100% company-paid disability insurance.
Additional Information
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction. Employment is contingent upon successfully completing a post-offer background check. A criminal conviction will not automatically disqualify an applicant from employment. Must be willing and able to pass a post-offer drug screen and physical (if required). Must be 18 years of age or older.