Lead Technician

Pridgeon & Clay Inc • Grand Rapids, MI

13d • $29 - $31 • Onsite

About The Position

The Setup Technician assists Manufacturing Supervisor in directing manufacturing resources and improving departmental performance in an exemplary manner according to the company quality policies. This role involves setting up, adjusting, and troubleshooting dies, sensors, and auxiliary equipment, as well as operating automatic metal stamping presses and programming a Smart Pac. The position requires strong mechanical aptitude, general math knowledge, computer literacy, and the ability to operate a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM). The technician will also be responsible for monitoring production, entering data into the electronic production tracking system, ensuring adherence to standard work instructions, and maintaining safety procedures. Additionally, the Lead Technician serves as a focal point for knowledge and training within the department, troubleshoots equipment issues, assists with changeovers to minimize downtime, and communicates effectively with team members and management.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Previous experience setting up, adjusting, and troubleshooting dies, sensors, and auxiliary equipment
• Previous experience using and programming a Smart Pac and operating automatic metal stamping presses
• Proven mechanical inclination, general math knowledge, and computer literacy through standardized tests
• The ability to operate a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)
• P&C Hi-lo/forklift and crane licenses, or the ability to pass both written and practical tests to obtain them
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• The ability to lead and work well in a team environment
• The ability to provide detailed documentation of tooling, sensor, press, and other related issues
• The ability and desire to attend job-related classes
• The ability to lift 50 pounds
• An excellent work record, including attendance

Nice To Haves

• Proficiency with Vulcan or other production tracking system
• Previous experience programming servo-driven systems

Responsibilities

• Monitor production requirements, schedule work for the area, and report production via the electronic production tracking system.
• Enter production information into the tracking system and work with Information Systems Support team to troubleshoot and eliminate tagging and inventory issues.
• Ensure all team members understand and follow all standard work instructions to promote the production of quality product.
• Prepare presses and work sites for set up using standard work.
• Prepare, install, set up, and remove dies according to set up instructions and documented standard work.
• Validate process parameters and enter system deviations when applicable.
• Teach operators to identify and properly tag and label different types of scrap.
• Consistently follow safety procedures during all phases of work: setup, installation of dies, loading material, operating presses, troubleshooting, and using die carts, using approved controls, safety devices, and coolants.
• Identify potential safety issues and take appropriate action.
• Become the focal point for knowledge and ensure all employees within the department receive the proper training and development.
• Demonstrate good communication skills and competency when providing troubleshooting guidance to team members and when directing the work of others.
• Troubleshoot dies, sensors, poke yoke, and controls in the hand feed presses and communicate relevant issues to maintenance or the tool room.
• Ensure that backup tooling, material, fixtures, containers, etc. are pre-staged in designated areas and ready in order to minimize downtime at set up.
• Assist operators to improve setup times and meet production goals by implementing and tracking quick die change techniques, end of run inspection with Die Technicians, and production improvements.
• Set up poke yoke and test functionality during press / die setup when available.
• Ensure that end of run tagging is completed properly at the end of each run.
• Return all paperwork, gages, and dies to their proper locations at the completion of each changeover.
• Operate department Hi-lo or cranes as needed and comply with all hi-lo/crane safety procedures.
• Review Hilo and crane maintenance check sheet before each shift.
• Report any safety issue to the Team Leader and / or safety director in a timely manner.
• Provide necessary, accurate, and timely feedback of all pertinent information to co-workers and management.
• Perform all activities as directed by the Production Manager or Team Leader.
• Assume the responsibilities of the Team Leader in his or her absence.
• Assist in teaching new operators how to accurately and efficiently perform their jobs, and then evaluate and contribute their performance information to departmental leadership.
• Assist the Team Leader in the employee evaluation process to ensure detailed and comprehensive input.
• Communicate with team members from other shifts to enhance teamwork and improve throughput.
• Lead five minutes stand-up meetings to communicate various department and company information.
• 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 the variables and attributes that are recorded and know where to find the minimum and maximum variables on each check sheet.
• 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 (Ci 8.5.1.3).
• 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 (including professionalism, personal integrity, and positive attitude) for employees and managers to emulate.
• Assist in maintaining company values (Integrity, People, Customers, Safety, We Can If...Do What It Takes, and Ownership) 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
• Leadership team that treats you like family and values your input
• Opportunity to participate in shaping the success of the organization through continuous improvement and problem solving events
• Opportunity for career growth - Over 70% of our leaders have been promoted from within

What This Job Offers

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