Machine Operator / Production Technician

Position Overview

The Production Technician works with the Production Supervisor to operate, document, and care for furnace equipment by monitoring processes, maintaining records, and ensuring safe, efficient operations. Compensation: Starting pay is $20 - $24 per hour (with merit increases and raises) and the role primarily operates on 1st shift with potential for 2nd and 3rd shifts, Monday to Friday.

Key Responsibilities

• Mechanical assembly and repair of furnace equipment
• Operate all furnace equipment as needed
• Loading and unloading of powder furnaces and associated equipment
• Routine cleaning and maintenance of machines, gauges, and other equipment
• Utilize hand, powered, and pneumatic tools
• Inspect and/or sort powder from totes as required
• Verify and use measurement devices (calipers, micrometers, gauges), indicators, and weight scales
• Perform compaction of powder or elements using press and die
• Advise supervisor, R&D, or Engineering of any equipment or process difficulties
• Inform supervision of out-of-tolerance conditions
• Follow process control plans, instructions, and safety regulations
• Audit products, processes, and documentation per control plans
• Maintain records in both written and electronic formats (SPC charts, production reports, etc.)
• Participate in ongoing training and continuous improvement activities
• Troubleshoot real-time processing issues
• Operate lifting equipment (fork truck, jib crane, etc.) as needed
• Maintain an organized and clean work area
• Follow instructions and collaborate effectively with the team
• Packaging, labeling, and preparing shipper documentation for produced materials
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical documents, business periodicals, and governmental regulations
• Skilled in writing reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals
• Competence in reading and interpreting standard operating procedures (SOP) and control plans
• Effective presentation skills and ability to respond to questions from managers, clients, and customers
• Proficiency in mathematical concepts including probability, statistics, geometry, and trigonometry
• Ability to apply fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions in practical situations
• Capable of problem-solving in situations with limited standardization
• Familiarity with various software (database, design, development, internet, manufacturing, project management, spreadsheet, and word processing)
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Approximately 2 years of experience, preferably in manufacturing
• Versatile, safety-conscious, and able to work collaboratively
• Excellent verbal and written communication and organizational skills
• Proactive time management and ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Physical ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, use hands, occasionally lift/move up to 50 pounds, and perform tasks requiring close vision, color vision, and depth perception
• Willingness to work extended hours, including occasional weekends, and to travel if needed
• Ability to follow written, oral, and diagram instructions and adapt to standardized procedures