Machine Operator

Job Title: UD Associate / Weaver Operator

Job Description

The UD Associate / Weaver Operator plays a key role in producing highquality soft armor and advanced textile materials used in aerospace, defense, energy, industrial, and protective applications. In this role, you safely and efficiently operate Uni-Directional (UD) textile machines and weaving equipment, including air jet and Rapier looms, to meet strict quality and production targets. You work as part of a self-directed team, overseeing the entire process from material staging and machine setup through inspection, packaging, and preparation for shipment, while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized work area.

Responsibilities

• Set up, start up, operate, clean, and shut down UD textile machines and weaving equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures to meet production and quality targets.
• Thread needles by hand and configure air jet and Rapier looms to produce circuit looms and other woven products to specification.
• Stage materials using barcoding and labeling, and maintain accurate inventories during production runs.
• Customize basic equipment settings based on customer and product requirements to ensure correct fabric patterns and performance.
• Follow precise test procedures based on specifications and customer requirements as outlined in internal control documents.
• Plan and lay out work to meet production schedules and achieve required output levels.
• Visually inspect fabric and products during operation to identify defects, anomalies, or pattern issues and ensure all specifications are met.
• Identify and troubleshoot equipment and process problems, and coordinate support from fixer apprentices or other resources when quality issues arise.
• Raise non-conformance reports (NCRs) for non-conforming materials and collaborate with Quality and Engineering teams to identify and implement resolutions.
• Operate hoists and pallet jacks safely, perform daily inspections, and use appropriate tools and machines for lifting and loading tasks.
• Use technology, including ERP systems and MS Office, to determine material and product specifications, and accurately enter production and quality data during and after runs.
• Package, label, band, and place finished products on skids so they are ready for shipping.
• Provide clear production, progress, and changeover reports to shift supervisors and team members.
• Practice and sustain 5S and lean principles in daily activities to maintain an organized, efficient work environment.
• Keep equipment and work areas clean, maintained, and in excellent condition for the next shift.
• Work in a manner that promotes a safe environment, address unsafe conditions immediately, and consistently use required personal protective equipment.
• Walk the production area regularly (approximately 47 miles per shift) to patrol machines and monitor product quality.
• Perform lamination, machine operation, machine setup, quality inspection, and use of conveyor systems and HMI interfaces as required.
• Use measuring tools such as calipers to support quality assurance and inspection activities.
• Take on other duties as assigned within the department and other areas of the plant as needed.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or equivalent GED.
• At least 2+ years of experience in a manufacturing production environment and/or working with manufacturers.
• At least 3+ years of machine operating experience, including setup, operation, and basic troubleshooting.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage time and multiple priorities efficiently in a fast-paced production setting.
• Precise manual dexterity for threading needles by hand, handling materials, and performing detailed machine adjustments.
• Ability to speak and read instructions competently in English.
• Basic math skills, particularly related to measurement and production calculations.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure correct patterns, accurate documentation, and consistent product quality.
• Commitment to the assigned work schedule and willingness to work overtime as required.
• Physical ability to move, bend, push, and lift up to 40 lbs, and to walk and stand for extended periods.
• Basic knowledge of computers and comfort using systems and software (including ERP systems and MS Office) to input data and review specifications.
• Dependable team player who is willing to cross-train, take on new duties, and grow within the company.
• Consistent focus on safety and adherence to all safety requirements, including use of personal protective equipment.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience operating textile machinery, including air jet looms, Rapier looms, and UD textile machines.
• Experience in lamination processes and working with conveyor systems and HMI interfaces.
• Hands-on experience with quality inspection and quality assurance in a production environment.
• Ability to use measurement tools such as calipers for precise inspection.
• Familiarity with 5S and lean manufacturing principles and their application on the production floor.
• Comfort working in a self-directed team environment with some supervision.
• Desire and ability to grow into other roles within the organization, including opportunities such as working in specialized areas like the carbon room.
• Strong reliability and work ethic, with a focus on maintaining high standards of cleanliness, organization, and equipment care.

Why Work Here?

You join a long-established organization that has spent decades developing advanced materials for critical applications, offering stability and meaningful, impactful work. The environment encourages cross-training and growth, with opportunities to move into specialized areas and take on new responsibilities as you develop your skills. A culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement supports your success, while structured shifts and clear processes help maintain work-life balance. You work with modern equipment and systems in a team-focused setting where contributions are recognized and where you can build a long-term career in advanced manufacturing.

Work Environment

This role is based in a manufacturing setting that produces advanced textile materials and soft armor. You work primarily on UD textile machines and weaving equipment such as air jet and Rapier looms, as well as lamination lines, conveyor systems, and HMI interfaces. The environment can have moderate to high noise levels at times, with personalized protective equipment provided and required. You spend continuous periods standing and walking, including patrolling the production area for 47 miles per shift, and you regularly perform lifting and loading tasks, supported by hoists, pallet jacks, and other appropriate tools and machines. Work may involve cutting operations and the use of sharp tools, along with precise measurements using instruments like calipers. The schedule follows a 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 2x2x3 shift pattern, with openings on different shifts and overtime as needed. The facility emphasizes 5S and lean principles, so work areas are kept clean, organized, and well-maintained. Appropriate attire and personal protective equipment are required to ensure safety and compliance with manufacturing standards.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of CHARLOTTE, NC.

The pay range for this position is $21.37 - $21.37/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of CHARLOTTE, NC.

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 6, 2026.

This is a fully onsite position in CHARLOTTE,NC.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.