Automatic Press Trainee

Pridgeon & Clay Inc • Grand Rapids, MI

7d • $18 - $20 • Onsite

About The Position

Pridgeon and Clay, a leading manufacturer of automotive components since 1948, is seeking a motivated Automatic Press Trainee. This role offers the opportunity to learn the duties of an Automatic Press Operator while contributing to production, documentation, continuous improvement, and lean initiatives. The company values diversity, quality, and a positive work environment where employees are treated like family and their input is valued. This position is ideal for individuals seeking a challenging and rewarding career in manufacturing.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Six months of experience working in a manufacturing setting
• Ability to prove mechanical inclination, computer literacy and general math knowledge through aptitude testing
• Willingness to attend off-site, job-related training classes
• Ability to multi-task and work in a fast paced environment
• Excellent work record (e.g. limited employee warnings), including 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

• Learn to stage, set, and troubleshoot dies for automatic presses using press controls and sensors.
• Learn to load coils, blank feed, operate departmental straighteners and presses to process parts.
• Learn to prepare, load, and adjust feeders, coil reels and straighteners, and verify proper raw material/stock against router.
• Read, understand, and complete all production paperwork and tags, including scrap, steel, move, production and bar code.
• Use the routing system to proficiently start jobs, print labels, load components/raw materials, and close out jobs.
• Learn and understand all steps and paperwork for setting up presses, including set-up instructions.
• Learn to operate automatic presses following general operating instructions and control plan.
• Pack and stack parts according to internal and external customer specifications.
• Complete training and receive license to operate hi-los and cranes.
• Learn to check die status and pre-stage upcoming jobs using Kanban and priority list.
• Learn to use Vulcan system to perform daily functions.
• Learn when and how to use End of Run tags.
• Learn to make adjustments to stock alignment and transfer fingers.
• Attend all APO trainee classes and complete all necessary tests and audits to complete the program.
• Use snap calipers, micrometers, height gages, protractors, attribute gates, variable gages, taper gages, and/or ring gages to ensure quality production per the Control Plan.
• Learn where to find and how to understand and complete sort instructions for any quality alerts.
• Use drop gage and fixtures in accordance with policy and ensure they are in calibration.
• Learn to run parts on the Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) and interpret the reports to verify the quality of parts sheet.
• Find and follow inspection check sheets, understand variables and attributes, and know where to find minimum and maximum variables.
• Document procedures per the control plan, including visual inspections, first-piece and parts-in-process inspections, and Statistical Process Control (SPC) Charting, reporting any discrepancies to the Supervisor.
• Follow and execute instructions specified in first-off piece, restart piece, and last piece inspection to insure part set-up & Quality.
• Follow all ISO/TS policies and procedures.
• Consistently follow safety procedures during all phases of work: set up, installation of dies, loading material, operating presses, etc.
• Learn to locate and properly use safety blocks at any time necessary.
• Use designated personal protective equipment for the work environment.
• Identify potential safety issues and take appropriate action.
• Place coils and parts in proper storage areas, properly dispose unusable skids, dump trash from press area, and dump used coil banding.
• Participate in lean initiatives and continuous improvement and problem-solving events, applying lean manufacturing concepts to work methods and identifying and attempting to eliminate all types of waste.
• Anticipate problems and work to eliminate them before they happen.
• Participate in the development and implementation of successful action plans to achieve temporary and permanent corrective actions.
• Monitors press strokes per minute (SPM) and drive for continuous improvement.
• Organize and maintain work area and 5S zone to optimize productivity, including sweeping, mopping, wiping down press controls, and controlling slugs.
• Demonstrate good communication skills and competency when providing troubleshooting guidance to team members and when directing the work of others.
• Provide necessary, accurate, and timely feedback of all pertinent information to co-workers, effectively communicating with Die Techs, Maintenance personnel, team members and management personnel.
• Effectively communicate with co-workers and management personnel to enhance teamwork and communication initiatives.
• Consistently exhibit appropriate attendance habits, working the hours necessary to perform the job.
• Organize and maintain efficiency of personal work area.
• Consistently adhere to, and support, company policies and procedures, including ISO, IATF 16949, and safety regulations.
• Accept instructions and duties in a positive manner.
• Treat all co-workers with dignity and respect.
• Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model for employees and managers to emulate.
• Assist in maintaining company values daily, through thoughts and actions.

Benefits

• Premium medical and prescription coverage starting at just $5.00 per week for employee coverage
• Dental
• Vision
• 401(k) with company match
• Tuition reimbursement
• Safe, team-oriented work environment
• Opportunity to participate in shaping the success of the organization through continuous improvement and problem solving events
• Positive work/life balance
• Opportunity for career growth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED