Automatic Press Operator, 1st Shift

Challenge Manufacturing•Cusseta, AL
•Onsite

About The Position

The Automatic Press Operator monitors automatic presses up to 1,000 tons to ensure quality stampings are produced according to Challenge Manufacturing quality standards, production orders, and engineering specifications. The operator performs quality checks, records information in Plex, and carries out general utility work to meet production schedules. The role includes selecting and loading coils, referencing production orders and Job Element Sheets, inspecting parts, packing and labeling products according to instructions, completing inspection records and production paperwork, and maintaining a safe, clean work area. Operators may work across and cross-train on different work centers to support plant operations and meet customer requirements. This is a first-shift position at the Cusseta, Alabama plant, scheduled Monday through Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Occasional early starts, late stays, or weekend work may be required to meet customer needs, deadlines, or urgent requests.

Requirements

  • High school graduate or equivalent.
  • One year of manufacturing experience.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Ability to read and interpret Job Element Sheets.
  • Ability to use a variety of gages, including functional and go/no-go gages.
  • PC, keyboard, and mouse skills.
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English sufficiently to perform job duties safely and effectively, including following work instructions, safety procedures, and company communications.
  • Ability to understand and follow written and verbal workplace instructions.
  • Ability to frequently lift or move materials weighing up to 40 pounds.
  • Ability to stand for 8–10 hours per day and perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Ability to work up to 12 hours per day, including Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Ability to contribute as a member of a team and collaborate with others.
  • Ability to work across work areas to support plant flow and meet customer needs.
  • Demonstrated accountability, reliability, accuracy, thoroughness, honesty, and integrity in performing work.
  • Ability to resolve conflict constructively, use feedback to improve, adapt positively to change, and share information and knowledge.
  • Dependable attendance and effective use of work time, including taking timely breaks and lunches.

Responsibilities

  • Monitor automatic presses up to 1,000 tons and ensure quality stampings meet company standards, production orders, and engineering specifications.
  • Perform duties needed to meet daily and weekly department and plant production requirements.
  • Use Plex production orders and Job Element Sheets to stamp products.
  • Select and load the correct coils into the stamping press.
  • Select appropriate racks or bins and pack or store parts according to packaging instructions and customer requirements.
  • Follow product labeling requirements.
  • Complete online work-center and operator inspection sheets to verify process stability and inspection and gage requirements.
  • Visually inspect stamped parts for form, fit, and function, following gage instructions, first-piece approval, containment processes, quality alerts, and applicable quality standards.
  • Record information in Plex and complete required paperwork and documentation, including hourly count boards.
  • Maintain safety and cleanliness in the work area by performing housekeeping duties.
  • Perform and cross-train on various work centers as required.
  • Meet daily production requirements.

Benefits

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): employee-owners receive annual company shares as an additional retirement benefit.
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