Materials Process Operator Apprentice
About The Position
Utilizing manual and automated equipment, the Materials Process Operator Apprentice processes raw materials into high-quality ceramic powders used to produce finished goods. Automation systems are highly process integrated and support efficient operation of routine and repeatable production processes. The role follows Environmental Health and Safety procedures, operates standardized production processes, performs in-process quality testing, and supports production continuity through communication with other operators. The apprentice also follows maintenance procedures, keeps the workspace clean, safely moves materials, and helps track inventory, supplies, and raw materials. The apprenticeship includes structured on-the-job learning and mentorship, related classroom instruction, and documentation of apprentice time and learning. Employees receive progressive wages as skills and productivity increase, and can earn a portable nationally recognized credential, gain workplace-relevant skills, receive academic credit toward college degrees, and plan for wage increases as newly developed skills are verified.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Basic reading and math skills.
- Must meet all training requirements defined by the department.
- Forklift operation is required.
- Ability to communicate clearly, share information and observations, listen, and respond to others.
- Ability and willingness to learn and navigate devices and software, including touchscreen technology.
- Basic mechanical aptitude, including selecting and using hand and power tools.
- Ability to understand and act on verbal and written instructions with increasing accuracy and thoroughness.
- Ability to manage time, follow priorities, and meet targets.
- Ability to lift 60 pounds.
- Ability to work from ladders and climb and descend stairs throughout the work shift.
- Ability to work in cold or hot environments and potentially wet or dusty conditions.
Nice To Haves
- 1–2 years of manufacturing experience.
- Forklift operation experience.
- Semi-automated machine operation experience.
Responsibilities
- Follow Environmental Health and Safety procedures and identify opportunities for safety improvements.
- Perform startups, shutdowns, and product mix changes across standardized production processes with manual and basic automation components.
- Identify technical problems and implement routine or directed solutions.
- Follow documented and scheduled maintenance procedures.
- Follow routine and repeatable work instructions and product mix specifications, including special instructions for ceramic material preparation when applicable.
- Learn and apply manufacturing principles and best practices to complete work effectively.
- Work with other operators to share information and maintain production continuity between shifts, process steps, or departments.
- Perform in-process quality testing for the assigned process area.
- Safely operate powered industrial equipment to move material within the facility.
- Maintain workspace cleanliness and follow 6S practices.
- Assist in accurately tracking inventory, supplies, and raw materials.
Benefits
- Portable, nationally recognized credential through the apprenticeship program.
- Workplace-relevant skills development.
- Academic credit toward college degrees.
- Progressive wages aligned with increases in skill and productivity.
- Opportunity for wage increases as new skills are developed and verified.
- Structured on-the-job learning and mentorship.
- Related classroom education through Related Training Instruction.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
