Machine Operator I

FRALOCK•Poway, CA

10d•$19 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

The Machine Operator I sets up and operates high-precision ceramic processing equipment, primarily green-sheet punching and sheet-lamination equipment. This role supports the early stages of ceramic component and electronic substrate manufacturing by maintaining precise layer registration, material consistency, and structural integrity before high-temperature sintering. The operator produces quality products safely, efficiently, and on schedule while meeting internal and external customer requirements. Attention to detail, quality awareness, and flexibility to support multiple functions through cross-training are important. The role works under general supervision and includes operating and adjusting machinery, performing quality checks, documenting production results, maintaining a clean and safe workstation, and collaborating with production colleagues. The position is onsite in Poway, California, with a stated shift of 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Access to ITAR- or EAR-controlled information requires the successful candidate to qualify as a U.S. person under those regulations. Offers are contingent on clear background-check results.

Requirements

High school degree or General Education Degree, with zero to two years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience operating and/or setting up manual machining equipment in a manufacturing environment.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and engineering drawing requirements.
Experience using precision measuring instruments, including micrometers, calipers, indicators, and height gages.
Mechanical aptitude, strong attention to detail, and commitment to quality.
Ability to solve problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
Self-motivation and ability to achieve results in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
Commitment to workplace safety and maintaining a clean work environment.
Experience using Microsoft Suite.
Ability to meet the physical requirements of frequent hand use; performing similar operations for 6–8 hours; sitting and standing for 6–8 hours; occasionally lifting up to 25 pounds; and performing close-up visual inspection for 4–6 hours.
Ability to work indoors in environmentally controlled conditions, with exposure to moving high-speed machinery and mechanical parts, and occasional exposure to machine oils and hazardous materials; required PPE includes smocks, gloves, hairnets or full-face covers, shoe covers, and safety-toed footwear.
Must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR and EAR requirements to access controlled information.
Successful completion of the applicable background check.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience operating green-sheet punching, thick-film printing, and sheet-lamination equipment.
Blueprint reading certificate.

Responsibilities

Set up and operate mechanical or automated punching equipment to produce via holes, alignment features, and cavity patterns in unfired ceramic green sheets according to engineering drawings and tooling specifications.
Collate and align multi-layer ceramic sheets using high-precision fixtures, and operate thermal ISO-static or uniaxial lamination presses using controlled pressure, temperature, and dwell-time cycles.
Perform visual and dimensional checks at each production stage, including punch quality, print registration and thickness, and laminate bond integrity.
Record yield, scrap, and batch information accurately in the ERP system.
Handle delicate green-tape sheets, clean punching dies, and maintain a clean, contamination-free workstation with ESD and particulate controls.
Perform machine setups, including selecting tooling, loading fixtures, and loading programs.
Adjust machines, offsets, and tooling to maintain machining quality and efficiency.
Read and interpret blueprints, setup sheets, travelers, engineering drawings, and specifications.
Use precision measuring instruments to verify part conformance and maintain quality documentation.
Cross-train and rotate across workstations to support production needs and efficiency.
Communicate and collaborate with supervisors, production leads, and peers to support department goals.
Follow safety standards and procedures, including PPE requirements for manufacturing.
Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work area.
Perform other duties as needed or assigned by the supervisor.