Job Title: Machine Operator
Department: Production - Soft Trim Manufacturing (Automotive)
Status: Non-exempt
Reports To: Production Supervisor
Location: Fraser, MI
SummaryThe Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining automated equipment in a state-of-the-art automotive interior soft trim and plastic injection molding facility. This plant is a new, small-scale, high-tech operation focused on producing automotive interior components. Operators ensure machines run efficiently, safely, and produce high-quality molded parts that meet customer and automotive standards.
What You’ll DoEssential Duties & Responsibilities:- Set up, operate, and monitor specialized machinery to meet production schedules and specifications.
- Inspect production parts for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and conformance to automotive quality standards.
- Record production data, quantities produced, scrap, and machine parameters accurately.
- Perform routine preventive maintenance, cleaning, and basic troubleshooting to minimize downtime.
- Assist with mold changes, machine setup, and tooling adjustments.
- Wrap, protect, label, and package finished parts according to customer and shipping requirements.
- Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols
- Maintain a clean, organized workstation and support 5S and lean manufacturing initiatives.
- Communicate production issues, quality concerns, and improvement opportunities to supervision.
- Work independently with minimal supervision; demonstrate initiative to improve efficiency and quality.
- Adheres consistently to attendance/punctuality, safety, and other company policies
What You’ll BringEducation & Experience requirements:- High school diploma or GED required.
- 2+ years’ operating soft trim equipment and / or injection molding machines within automotive industry (or similar environment)
What We ValueKnowledge, Skills, and Abilities:- Experience with soft trim part finesse and manual edge-folding preferred.
- Knowledge of plastic materials, molding parameters, and basic machine troubleshooting; ability to read work instructions and basic engineering drawings.
- Ability to operate forklift
- Self-starter; efficient; dependable; strong attention to detail; commitment to safety and quality.
- An interest in developing within the company (learning new skills or growth opportunities)
- Willingness to work required shifts, overtime, and adhere to company attendance policies.
Preferred - Experience with statistical process control (SPC), poka-yoke, or process documentation.
- Certification or training in injection molding equipment, mechanical aptitude, or forklift operation.
- Familiarity with automotive PPAP, APQP, or ISO IATF quality requirements.
Physical and Environmental Conditions- Molding presses, automated handling systems, robotic equipment, and inspection tools. The plant operates under automotive quality standards including IATF 16949 and ISO 9001.
- Work performed in a manufacturing plant with exposure to noise, heat, and industrial chemicals; use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and manual handling of parts and materials (manual dexterity).
- Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs., perform repetitive motions, and work in a manufacturing environment.
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