Machine Operator (1st Shift)

Description

The Machine Operator (1st Shift) works in a manufacturing environment setting up and operating CNC milling machines and other production equipment to create precision parts and components. This role performs primary machining and secondary operations in support of the production plan, with a focus on delivering a timely, high-quality product to our customers.

The Machine Operator works across assigned production shifts and plays a critical role in maintaining machine efficiency, product quality, and a safe, organized shop floor.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

MACHINE SETUP & OPERATION:

• Interpret specifications, engineering prints, job orders, and work instructions to set up and operate equipment accurately.
• Set up and operate CNC vertical milling machines, saws, drill presses, and other production machinery to create parts per the production plan.
• Perform all required secondary machining or additional operations to produce components ready for assembly.
• Monitor machine performance during production runs; make adjustments to feeds, speeds, and tooling as needed to maintain output quality.
• Perform routine machine maintenance tasks including cleaning, lubrication, and basic troubleshooting; report equipment issues promptly.
• May be asked to obtain certification to operate a forklift.

QUALITY & INSPECTION:

• Inspect materials, in-process components, and finished parts to detect defects or malfunctions prior to assembly.
• Maintain quality standards, process parameters, and other indicators to ensure all components conform to engineering specifications and quality requirements.
• Identify and communicate non-conforming parts or process deviations to the Production Manager or CNC Area Lead.
• Follow all documented work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality checklists consistently.
• Complete production and quality records accurately and in a timely manner.

WORKPLACE STANDARDS & 5S:

• Maintain cleanliness of machines, equipment, and the shop floor on a continuous basis.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and well-organized production work environment through consistent application of the 5S program.
• Report tooling shortages, material discrepancies, or equipment concerns to the appropriate supervisor promptly.

SAFETY & COMPLIANCE:

• Embrace and comply with all safety policies, OSHA regulations, and company employee guidelines.
• Participate in safety training, toolbox talks, and incident reporting as required.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times in designated areas.
• Supports and models STARC Systems values and mission.
• Other duties as assigned, relevant to the role and in support of the needs of the company.

Requirements

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Associate’s degree or equivalent preferred; combination of relevant education and experience considered.
• One or more years of prior experience with CNC milling machine setup, operation, tooling, and machining parameters required; CNC programming experience or training a plus.
• Ability to read and accurately interpret engineering drawings, production prints, and shop floor work instructions.
• Basic math skills and proficiency with precision measuring instruments (calipers, micrometers, gauges).
• Experience with hand tools, power tools, and general manufacturing equipment preferred.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to set up and troubleshoot CNC and machining equipment.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to producing accurate, defect-free components.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced production environment.
• Self-motivated and adaptable; able to shift between tasks and machines as production needs change.
• Strong alignment with STARC Systems’ core values: Team Aligned, Safety Focused, Committed, Innovative & Growth Oriented.
• Effective verbal communication skills; able to interact clearly with supervisors, leads, and team members.
• Goal-oriented with a focus on producing quality parts and contributing to overall production performance.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state law.

While performing the duties of this role, the employee is regularly required to stand for extended periods, walk throughout the production floor, use hands and fingers to handle tools, parts, and equipment, and reach with arms and hands. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 40 pounds and occasionally lift heavier materials with assistance or mechanical aids. The noise level in the production environment is typically moderate to high; hearing protection may be required in designated areas. Specific vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. This role is performed in a manufacturing environment and may involve exposure to moving mechanical parts, tools, and materials.

SCHEDULE AND COMPENSATION:

This is a second shift position with hours of 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The pay range for this position is $25.00 to $26.00.

Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at STARC Systems.

BENEFITS:

STARC Systems offers a competitive benefits package designed to support employees and their families. The benefits listed below are intended to provide a general summary and are not intended to be a complete list of all benefits, programs, eligibility requirements, plan terms, conditions, or limitations.

• Medical insurance plan options
• Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account options
• Employer HSA contribution for eligible employees enrolled in an HSA-compatible plan
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Basic life and AD&D insurance
• Voluntary life and AD&D insurance options
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Voluntary accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance options
• Employee Assistance Program resources
• Virtual care resources
• Paid time off and company holidays
• 401(k) retirement plan