Machine Operator (3rd)

AAM•North Vernon, IN

About The Position

The Machine Operator operates, monitors, and maintains production equipment used throughout Operations 20, 30, 40/45, 55, and 60/65. The role ensures products are manufactured to quality standards, production requirements, and safety guidelines while supporting efficient machine performance and minimizing downtime. The operator sets up and runs manufacturing equipment according to work instructions and standard operating procedures; loads materials and components; verifies settings, tooling, fixtures, and material requirements; and performs first-piece, in-process, and final inspections. The position uses measurement and inspection equipment, monitors performance, makes authorized adjustments, troubleshoots minor malfunctions, and alerts maintenance personnel when repairs are needed. It also includes production and quality documentation, routine operator-level maintenance, changeovers and setup verification, handling nonconforming material, material flow and inventory control, continuous improvement, housekeeping, safety compliance, cross-training, and other assigned duties.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED preferred.
Previous machine operation or manufacturing experience preferred.
Ability to safely operate manufacturing machinery and equipment.
Ability to read and follow work instructions, quality standards, and production schedules.
Working knowledge of machine controls, tooling, and equipment adjustments.
Ability to use inspection and measuring equipment accurately.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to identify and address process abnormalities.
Strong teamwork, communication, and organizational skills.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Ability to learn and become certified on multiple operations and equipment types.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during scheduled shifts.
Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry materials within company-established guidelines.
Frequent use of hands for machine operation, material handling, and inspections.
Ability to bend, reach, twist, kneel, and perform repetitive tasks.
Ability to maintain visual focus for inspection and quality verification activities.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with automated, semi-automated, or mechanical production equipment is beneficial.
Experience interpreting work instructions, production documentation, and quality requirements preferred.

Responsibilities

Set up, operate, and monitor manufacturing equipment according to work instructions and standard operating procedures.
Load materials, components, and workpieces into machines and production equipment.
Verify machine settings, tooling, fixtures, and material requirements before production runs.
Conduct first-piece, in-process, and final inspections to confirm product quality.
Measure and inspect parts using gauges, calipers, templates, and other inspection equipment.
Monitor machine performance and identify quality, equipment, or process issues.
Make authorized machine adjustments to maintain quality and production efficiency.
Troubleshoot minor machine malfunctions and notify maintenance personnel when repairs are required.
Complete production reports, quality records, downtime documentation, and traceability paperwork accurately.
Follow production schedules and achieve established productivity goals.
Perform routine operator-level maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and preventive maintenance checks.
Assist with machine changeovers, tooling changes, and setup verification.
Identify and segregate nonconforming material according to established procedures.
Maintain orderly material flow and inventory control within the work area.
Participate in continuous improvement, waste reduction, and process optimization initiatives.
Maintain housekeeping standards in accordance with 5S and plant requirements.
Comply with safety regulations, PPE requirements, and company policies.
Support cross-training activities and perform other duties as assigned.
Produce quality parts that meet customer and company requirements.