Senior Machine Operator
Department: Manufacturing
Position Type: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Position Summary
A growing manufacturing organization is seeking an experienced Senior Machine Operator to join its production team. This role is responsible for setting up, operating, troubleshooting, and optimizing multiple types of production equipment while ensuring strong standards of safety, quality, and productivity.
The successful candidate will be a highly skilled manufacturing professional capable of performing machine setups, interpreting technical drawings, solving production issues, and producing quality parts with minimal supervision. This position requires a hands-on leader who can support continuous improvement initiatives and serve as a technical resource for fellow operators.
Essential Responsibilities
- Independently set up, operate, adjust, and troubleshoot production equipment including laminators, slitters, die cutters, and assembly equipment.
- Interpret blueprints, engineering drawings, job routers, specifications, and work instructions.
- Perform machine changeovers and optimize machine performance to maximize efficiency and minimize downtime.
- Monitor production quality through first-piece, in-process, and final inspections.
- Utilize precision measuring equipment including calipers, gauges, rulers, and tape measures to verify product dimensions.
- Diagnose machine or process issues and make necessary adjustments to maintain production standards.
- Train and mentor new machine operators on equipment, quality requirements, and safe operating procedures.
- Recommend process improvements that enhance productivity, reduce waste, and improve overall equipment effectiveness.
- Record labor, production data, scrap, and material usage accurately within the ERP system.
- Maintain equipment and work areas in accordance with Lean Manufacturing and 5S principles.
- Follow all company safety policies, quality standards, and operating procedures.
- Perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience operating and setting up industrial manufacturing equipment.
- Experience with converting equipment, die cutting, laminating, slitting, stamping, CNC, or other precision manufacturing equipment preferred.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and advanced troubleshooting abilities.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering documentation.
- Experience using precision measuring instruments and quality inspection equipment.
- Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, 5S, and continuous improvement principles.
- ERP or manufacturing software experience preferred.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and teamwork skills.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to stand, bend, reach, and perform repetitive tasks during a 10-hour shift.
- Ability to safely work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, dust, noise, fiberglass, and industrial materials.
Schedule
1st Shift and 2nd Shift: Monday–Thursday | 10 hours
Overtime may be required on Fridays and Saturdays based on production demands.
Why Apply?
This position offers a stable, team-oriented manufacturing environment where experienced professionals are valued for their technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to quality. Candidates looking for a long-term opportunity to work with advanced manufacturing equipment and make a direct impact on production success are encouraged to apply.
Pay: $28.00 - $40.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- On-the-job training
- Paid time off
- Prescription drug insurance
- Professional development assistance
- Profit sharing
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
- Machining: 5 years (Required)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Required)
- Night Shift (Required)
Work Location: In person
