Automatic Press Operator Trainee

Pridgeon & Clay Inc•Grand Rapids, MI

9d•$21 - $21

About The Position

The Automatic Press Operator Trainee performs the duties of an Automatic Press Operator and assists with production and documentation tasks. The role supports production through continuous improvement and lean initiatives and performs 5S duties in accordance with company quality policies. The trainee must complete the position’s requirements and become proficient in independently running presses. The work involves preparing and setting up presses and dies; operating automatic presses; changing coils; monitoring fluids; verifying materials; troubleshooting press systems; performing quality inspections and production documentation; and safely using material-handling equipment and other tools. The operator also assists and guides coworkers, contributes to training, and follows company quality, safety, and continuous-improvement procedures. This is a full-time third-shift position working four 10-hour shifts, Monday night through Friday morning, from 8:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. Employees must be willing to train and work on any shift. The posting offers a $2,500 sign-on bonus and a $1.00-per-hour third-shift differential.

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.

Responsibilities

Complete all requirements for the Automatic Press Operator Trainee position and become proficient in independently running presses.
Prepare presses and work sites for setup; follow setup instructions; set up presses across press categories; prepare and adjust straighteners and feeders; align stock; assist with transfer-system setup; and prepare for subsequent setups.
Prepare dies for installation and install and remove dies in the press.
Operate automatic presses according to operator instructions and control plans; read, understand, and complete production paperwork and tags.
Monitor and maintain 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, and perform coil changes safely, including calculating remaining coil weight and handling coils as required.
Use 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 steel coils, dies, scrap, and finished products.
Provide direction and assistance to personnel assigned to the press.
Troubleshoot presses using Smart Pac, CNC computers, and controls to support quality and production, including checking poka-yoke systems, light curtains, sensor readings, and probing capability.
Perform all tasks associated with a changeover.
Use a torch and plasma cutter as needed.
Learn to modify and adjust existing press-control programs.
Assist with training Automatic Press Operator trainees as needed.
Use specified measuring and inspection equipment to verify production quality against the Control Plan.
Learn to locate, understand, and complete sort instructions for quality alerts.
Use drop gages and fixtures according to policy and ensure they are calibrated.
Learn to operate the Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) and interpret its reports to verify part quality.
Find and follow inspection check sheets; understand recorded variables and attributes and locate minimum and maximum values.
Complete control-plan documentation, including visual, first-piece, and in-process inspections and Statistical Process Control (SPC) charting; report discrepancies to the Supervisor.
Follow first-off, restart, and last-piece inspection instructions to ensure setup and quality requirements are met.
Follow ISO/TS policies and procedures and consistently use safe work practices throughout setup, die installation, material loading, and press operation.
Use required safety devices when handling coils; stack and stand coils safely; use safety blocks when necessary; wear designated personal protective equipment; and identify and address potential safety issues.
Participate in lean initiatives, continuous-improvement and problem-solving events, and apply lean manufacturing concepts such as quick setup, standardized work, and error-proofing to identify and reduce waste.
Anticipate problems and help eliminate them; participate in developing and implementing corrective-action plans.
Monitor press strokes per minute (SPM) and pursue continuous improvement.
Organize and maintain the work area and 5S zone, including cleaning and controlling slugs.
Communicate troubleshooting guidance and provide direction to team members, Utility workers, hi-lo drivers, and others.
Provide accurate and timely information to coworkers, Die Techs, Maintenance personnel, team members, and management.
Maintain attendance, organize the personal work area, follow company policies and procedures, accept duties positively, treat coworkers with respect, and demonstrate professionalism and a positive attitude.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package.
$1.00 per hour third-shift differential.
$2,500 sign-on bonus.
Competitive total compensation.
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.
Opportunity for career growth and promotion from within.