Position Summary
The Cylindrical Roll Threader Operator sets up, operates, and owns day-to-day production on Portland Bolt's new cylindrical die roll threading machine (PMC PM-75VS-L), producing rolled threads on rod and bolt stock in the 1-1/2" to 2" diameter range. This is a hands-on, skilled machine role for an operator who takes pride in a precise setup, verifies their own quality, and keeps production moving. This position is central to bringing a new piece of capital equipment online — the successful operator will be trained by the machine's OEM specialist during commissioning and will become the in-house expert on cylindrical threading.
Shift: This position will work on our day shift Mon-Fri, 6:30am - 3:00pm.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
1. Machine Setup & Operation
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Set up, adjust, and operate the cylindrical die roll threader independently, including die installation, removal, and alignment across both spindles
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Select and set spindle inclination (0–10°) for thru-feed and plunge-feed threading modes based on the job
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Select spindle speed and feed parameters by diameter and material grade using the variable-speed inverter drive (0–90 RPM)
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Verify die synchronization between spindles to prevent lead error and surface damage on the workpiece
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Perform changeovers between part sizes and thread pitches with minimal supervision
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Run standard, non-standard, and specialty parts to print and to specification
2. Quality & Process Control
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Inspect threads using GO/NO-GO gauges and hand measurement tools; confirm first articles before running production
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Troubleshoot quality and setup issues — thread form, lead, surface finish — and make corrections independently
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Track die life and wear indicators; flag dies for replacement before they produce out-of-spec threads
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Record production, quality, and downtime data in process control and production logs (supports OEE tracking)
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Follow and help refine standard operating procedures and setup sheets for the machine
3. Maintenance & General Support
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Perform daily and weekly preventive maintenance checks (coolant level and concentration, lubrication, guard inspection) per the PM schedule
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Maintain correct coolant concentration; record daily refractometer readings and top-offs
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Operate overhead cranes and forklifts to move material and product safely
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Inspect equipment and product for safety and integrity; report abnormal conditions
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Follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) and all machine safety procedures without exception
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Maintain a clean, organized work cell and shipping floor; support 5S and continuous improvement activities
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Perform other tasks as assigned
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
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Manufacturing floor role; on your feet for extended periods
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Regularly stand and walk; frequently use hands and fingers to handle, feel, and adjust; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; occasionally stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
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Ability to lift up to 75 lbs
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Vision requirements: close, distance, peripheral, and depth perception, plus the ability to adjust focus
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Exposure to noise, non-weather heat, and occasional wet or humid conditions; coolant mist in the machine area
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Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as designated by area
Qualifications
Required
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High school diploma or GED
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2+ years of roll threading or comparable machine setup/operation experience, working independently the majority of the time
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Strong mechanical aptitude — understands how the machine works, not just how to run it
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Comfortable with units of measurement, reading prints, and using precision measurement tools
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Ability to troubleshoot quality issues and make independent corrections
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Detail-oriented, safety-first, and able to manage shifting priorities in a fast-paced production environment
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Able to work both independently and as part of a team
Preferred
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Experience with cylindrical die roll threading (this machine's process) — strongly preferred, but not required; OEM training is provided
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Experience with both vertical and horizontal machine setups
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Familiarity with thread specifications, gauging, and thread form standards
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Exposure to preventive maintenance programs, SOPs, or controlled documents
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Familiarity with ERP systems (Acumatica or similar) for production and data entry
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Background in metal fabrication or fastener manufacturing