Setup Operator Coil Machine Operator

Setup Operator

The setup operator works in the cold heading department, running production machines that form hard metal and steel wire into precision components such as fasteners, screws, bolts, pins, and similar parts used in automotive and industrial equipment. In this role, you primarily run and monitor multiple machines, catch and inspect parts, and perform quality checks using measuring tools. This position offers a clear path to learn machine setup and grow into a setup technician or move into other departments for long-term career development.

Responsibilities

• Run cold heading machines to form metal and steel wire into finished components such as fasteners, screws, bolts, pins, and other precision parts.
• Monitor machines continuously to ensure stable operation, consistent part quality, and adherence to production standards.
• Catch parts as they come off the machines and perform visual inspections to identify defects or irregularities.
• Use micrometers, calipers, and other basic measurement tools to perform quality checks and verify that parts meet specifications.
• Accurately complete all required quality and production documentation in a timely and legible manner.
• Achieve machine operational run times and output targets as established on work orders.
• Operate more than one machine at a time while maintaining safety, quality, and efficiency.
• Analyze machine performance and determine when adjustments are needed to maintain desired results for each production run.
• Make basic mechanical adjustments to production machines under guidance to optimize performance and part quality.
• Follow standard operating procedures, safety guidelines, and housekeeping practices to maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Collaborate with setup technicians and other team members to resolve issues and support continuous improvement.
• Participate in training to learn new machines, processes, and potentially the full setup process for career advancement.

Essential Skills

• Strong mechanical aptitude and a demonstrated ability to understand how machines and equipment operate.
• Experience working with hand tools and power tools in an industrial, mechanical, or similar environment.
• Ability to learn and train on new machines, processes, and production methods.
• Capability to lift 50+ pounds as part of regular job duties.
• Basic math skills, including working with decimals and fractions and converting between metric and standard measurements.
• Comfort working around industrial machinery, moving parts, and shop equipment.
• Attention to detail for performing visual inspections and completing quality documentation accurately.
• Willingness to work with metal components and perform repetitive production tasks safely and consistently.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Machine operation or machine setup experience in a manufacturing or production environment.
• CNC machine experience or exposure to automated equipment.
• Experience reading blueprints, schematics, or basic technical drawings.
• Familiarity with robotics or automated systems in an industrial setting.
• Troubleshooting experience with machinery or mechanical systems.
• Experience using basic measurement tools such as micrometers and calipers.
• Experience as a farm hand, hobby mechanic, automotive mechanic, or similar hands-on mechanical experience.
• Experience with deburring parts or finishing metal components.
• Prior exposure to cold heading processes or Acme screw machines, which is considered a strong plus.

Why Work Here?

You join a small, close-knit shop that values trust, independence, and hands-on learning. The company offers a unique opportunity to learn a specialized trade in a niche manufacturing industry, even if you do not have prior machine experience. Team members enjoy a family-style environment without heavy micromanagement, where employees are encouraged to grow into setup, maintenance, and other advanced roles. The workplace culture includes team events such as barbecues and group activities that foster camaraderie. Employees benefit from profit sharing, a matching 401(k) plan, and excellent medical and dental benefits, supporting both long-term financial security and personal well-being.

Work Environment

The role is based in a shop environment with approximately 40 employees and a variety of industrial machines, moving parts, and forklifts. The facility is well organized and focused on safe, efficient operations. The standard schedule is a first shift from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, with no regular weekend work; overtime is available on Fridays as needed. The shop is not temperature controlled, so it can become warmer in the summer months, but fans are in place to improve comfort, and wearing shorts is allowed in accordance with safety guidelines. The environment suits individuals who are comfortable working around industrial equipment, handling metal parts, and performing physical tasks throughout the day.

Job Type & Location: This is a Contract to Hire position based out of North Branch, MN.

Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $25.00/hr. 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)

Workplace Type: This is a fully onsite position in North Branch, MN.

Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on May 31, 2026.