Machine Operator – Reduction
About The Position
Elmet Technologies is hiring a Machine Operator for its Reduction department at its Coldwater, Michigan facility. The operator runs and monitors specialized manufacturing equipment, performs machine setups and product changeovers, and helps meet production, quality, safety, cost, and delivery requirements. The role includes cross-training on multiple Reduction processes and opportunities to develop technical skills and grow within the company. This is hands-on work in an active industrial production environment. Operators work directly with machinery, perform equipment inspections, handle materials, complete production documentation, and follow established procedures and appropriate personal protective equipment requirements. The schedule consists of 12-hour rotating swing shifts, with day or night opportunities and a 3-on, 2-off, 2-on, 3-off rotation. Day shifts run 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; night shifts run 6:00 PM–6:00 AM. The position may require access to information, technology, or materials subject to U.S. export control regulations; applicants must be eligible to access controlled information under applicable law.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED, or equivalent work experience in a similar environment.
- Comfort working around industrial machinery and production equipment.
- Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts, including weekends.
- Willingness and ability to obtain and maintain required forklift and overhead crane operator licenses.
- Ability to follow production instructions, safety procedures, and quality requirements.
- Comfort completing production records and learning computer-based manufacturing systems.
- Attention to detail regarding product identification, equipment conditions, and production documentation.
- Willingness to cross-train on multiple manufacturing processes.
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a team environment.
- Initiative and willingness to communicate equipment or production concerns to leadership.
- Eligibility to access controlled information under applicable U.S. export control laws if required for the position.
Nice To Haves
- Previous manufacturing experience, particularly experience with industrial equipment.
- Willingness to learn and commitment to safe, dependable work.
Responsibilities
- Operate manufacturing equipment safely and efficiently to meet production, quality, cost, and delivery requirements.
- Set up machines and perform product changeovers according to production schedules.
- Monitor manufacturing processes and equipment performance.
- Cross-train on specialized Reduction department processes and equipment, including First Stage Conventional, Second Stage Conventional, Single Pass, Sintering Pellets (Box Furnaces), First Stage Rotaries, and Second Stage Autos.
- Perform daily equipment inspections and support preventive maintenance activities.
- Assist with equipment repairs and troubleshooting.
- Maintain accurate product identification and lot traceability throughout production.
- Operate forklifts, overhead cranes, hand carts, and other industrial equipment.
- Complete production paperwork, including production logs, equipment checks, work orders, and performance records.
- Enter and maintain production information in SAP, including product confirmations, maintenance work orders, and purchase requisitions.
- Follow inventory control procedures, including Kanban systems.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area using 5S practices.
- Support additional production activities as assigned by department leadership.
- Communicate equipment or production concerns to leadership.
Benefits
- $22.00–$25.50 per hour, based on experience.
- 10% shift premium for day shifts (B & C).
- 20% shift premium for night shifts (A & D).
- $250 monthly perfect-attendance bonus, up to $3,000 annually.
- Quarterly production bonus opportunity of up to 9%.
- 4% retirement match.
- Benefits starting Day One, including three medical plan options, dental, and vision insurance.
- Company-paid life insurance and short-term and long-term disability coverage.
- Paid time off and paid holidays.
- Tuition assistance to support continued education.
- $1,000 employee referral bonus.
- Opportunities to cross-train, develop technical skills, and grow within the company.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
