Automatic Press Operator Trainee

Pridgeon & Clay•Grand Rapids, MI

About The Position

The Automatic Press Operator Trainee performs the duties of an Automatic Press Operator, assists with production and documentation, supports continuous improvement and lean initiatives, and performs 5S duties in accordance with company quality policies. The trainee completes position training and becomes proficient in independently running presses. The role includes preparing and setting up presses, feeders, straighteners, transfer systems, and dies; operating and troubleshooting automatic presses; changing coils; completing production and quality documentation; and using production systems to obtain information and order materials. Operators also use material-handling equipment and cutting tools, monitor press performance, help train other trainees, and provide direction to assigned press personnel. The position is on third shift, working four 10-hour shifts from Monday night through Friday morning, 8:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. Employees must be willing to train and work on any shift. The work includes handling steel coils and dies, using measurement and inspection equipment, following safety procedures, and maintaining an organized 5S work area. Pridgeon and Clay offers competitive total compensation, a comprehensive benefits plan, a safe and team-oriented work environment, opportunities to take part in improvement and problem-solving events, work/life balance, and opportunities for career growth.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least nine months of experience setting up and operating automatic presses and troubleshooting dies.
Ability to demonstrate mechanical inclination, computer literacy, and general math knowledge through aptitude testing.
Willingness to attend off-site, job-related training classes.
Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent work record, including limited employee warnings and good attendance.
Willingness to train on and work on any shift.
Ability to lift 50 pounds.
Operators are responsible for owning a set of approved calipers and micrometers.
Ability to follow safety procedures and use required safety equipment and protective devices.

Responsibilities

Complete the requirements of the Automatic Press Operator Trainee position and become proficient in independently running presses.
Prepare presses and work areas for setup, follow setup instructions, and set up presses across all press categories.
Prepare and adjust straighteners and feeders, align stock, assist with transfer-system setup, and prepare for the next setup.
Prepare, install, and remove dies; perform all tasks associated with press changeovers.
Operate automatic presses according to operator instructions and control plans, and complete production paperwork and tags.
Monitor press fluid levels, change lubricant, adjust lubricant concentration during setup and troubleshooting, and dispose of waste oil properly.
Verify raw material against router and check sheets; load, remove, start, end, and band steel coils.
Use the intranet, Kanban, and EAM systems to obtain job information and order materials as needed.
Safely operate hi-los, overhead cranes, and die carts to handle coils, dies, scrap, and finished product.
Provide direction and assistance to personnel assigned to the press.
Troubleshoot presses using Smart Pac, CNC computers, and controls to maintain quality and production, including using poka-yoke, light curtains, sensor readings, and probing ability.
Safely perform all aspects of coil changes, including calculating remaining coil weight, skidding and positioning coils, and lifting coils.
Use a torch and plasma cutter as needed, and learn to modify and adjust existing press-control programs.
Assist with training Automatic Press Operator trainees as needed.
Use specified measurement and inspection equipment to verify product quality according to control plans.
Learn to locate and interpret sort instructions and quality alerts; use drop gauges and fixtures according to policy and ensure they are in calibration.
Learn to run parts on a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) and interpret reports to verify quality.
Locate and follow inspection check sheets; understand recorded variables and attributes and their minimum and maximum values.
Complete visual, first-piece, in-process, restart-piece, and last-piece inspections and SPC charting; report discrepancies to the Supervisor.
Follow ISO/TS policies and procedures and safety procedures throughout setup, die installation, material handling, and press operation.
Use required coil-handling safety devices, stack and stand coils safely, use safety blocks when necessary, wear designated PPE, and identify and address potential safety issues.
Participate in lean initiatives, continuous improvement, and problem-solving events; apply lean manufacturing concepts and identify and attempt to eliminate waste.
Anticipate problems and participate in developing and implementing corrective-action plans.
Monitor press strokes per minute and pursue continuous improvement.
Organize and maintain the work area and 5S zone, including cleaning and controlling slugs.
Communicate troubleshooting guidance and provide accurate, timely information to coworkers, Die Techs, Maintenance, team members, and management.
Maintain dependable attendance, organize personal work areas, follow company policies and procedures, accept duties positively, and demonstrate professionalism and respect.

Benefits

$2,500 sign-on bonus.
$1.00 per hour third-shift differential.
Comprehensive benefits package.
Premium medical and prescription coverage, with employee coverage starting at $5.00 per week.
Dental coverage.
Vision coverage.
401(k) with company match.
Tuition reimbursement.
Safe, team-oriented work environment.
Opportunity to participate in continuous improvement and problem-solving events.
Positive work/life balance.
Career growth opportunities; over 70% of leaders have been promoted from within.