Equipment Operator

Production Equipment OperatorSimpson Race Products, a premier manufacturer of racing safety equipment, has an opening for a full-time Production Equipment Operator on first shift at its New Braunfels, TX facility. This role is central to our manufacturing workflow, responsible for operating a suite of automated and semi-automated production equipment used in the fabrication of racing apparel and safety gear. We are seeking a fast learner with strong technical aptitude, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to coordinate effectively with logistics and materials planning teams.The Production Equipment Operator is responsible for the setup, operation, and basic maintenance of multiple production machines including an automated fabric cutting table, sublimation printer, sublimation transfer machine, die cutting machine, and DTF (Direct-to-Film) printer. This individual must be capable of planning and sequencing machine work based on active job orders, prioritizing tasks to maximize throughput, and working closely with the logistics and material planning teams to ensure materials are available and jobs are completed on schedule.Key responsibilities include:Set up and operate the automated fabric cutting table, loading fabric rolls and configuring cut files per job order specificationsMonitor cutting operations in real time, identifying and resolving material feed issues, blade wear, or file errorsPerform basic blade changes, calibration checks, and routine preventive maintenanceStack, label, and stage cut panels for downstream sewing or assembly operationsOperate the sublimation printer to produce full-color graphics, logos, and patterned designs on transfer paper per approved artwork filesManage print queues, ICC color profiles, and RIP software settings to maintain color accuracy and consistencyOperate the sublimation heat transfer machine, setting correct time, temperature, and pressure parameters per fabric typeInspect finished sublimation transfers and garments for color fidelity, registration accuracy, and surface qualityPerform routine maintenance on print heads, platens, and heating elements; escalate mechanical issues to maintenance as neededOperate the DTF printer to produce high-resolution film transfers for application to garments and accessoriesManage ink levels, film loading, and printer settings to ensure consistent print quality across production runsCure and powder DTF prints using appropriate equipment, following correct temperature and dwell-time protocolsInspect finished DTF transfers for color accuracy, adhesion quality, and print completeness before applicationPerform daily equipment checks, cleaning, and preventive maintenance tasks across all assigned machinesMaintain an organized, clean, and safe work area in compliance with 5S standardsReport equipment malfunctions, wear, or safety concerns to the maintenance team promptlyAdhere to all safety rules, regulations, and PPE requirements at all timesSkills and qualifications:High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certifications in equipment operation, printing, or manufacturing a plusDemonstrated ability to learn new equipment, software, and processes quickly and independentlyStrong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot basic machine issues and perform routine maintenanceProficiency with computers and production software; comfortable learning proprietary machine control systems and RIP/nesting softwareExceptional attention to detail with a quality-first mindsetEffective communication skills to coordinate closely with logistics, material planning, and production supervisionPreferred:Prior experience operating any of the following: automated fabric cutting systems (e.g. Lectra, Gerber, Zünd), sublimation printers (e.g. Epson, Mimaki, Sawgrass), DTF printers, or die cutting machinesFamiliarity with color management, ICC profiles, and RIP software (e.g. Wasatch, Caldera, or similar)Experience reading and interpreting production job orders, work instructions, or bill of materials (BOM)Background in apparel manufacturing, sports equipment production, or a related industrial environmentExperience with production scheduling or coordination with supply chain/logistics teamsWork style and dependability:Fast learner who thrives in a dynamic, multi-machine production environmentSelf-motivated with the ability to prioritize and manage workload with minimal supervisionTeam-oriented with a collaborative approach to problem-solvingDependable, with a consistent attendance record and professional demeanorWillingness to work extended hours and occasional Saturdays as production demands requirePhysical demands:Frequent standing and walking throughout the shift in a production environmentOccasional lifting and carrying of fabric rolls, material bins, and finished goods weighing up to 40 poundsRepetitive hand and arm movements associated with machine setup, material loading, and inspection tasksExtended periods of visual concentration required for print quality inspection, color matching, and cut accuracy reviewAbility to work in a facility environment with exposure to heat (from transfer presses), ink vapors, and industrial machinery noiseWhy Holley is a great place to work:At Holley, we're more than a performance parts company—we're a community of enthusiasts, innovators, and problem-solvers. We offer a competitive benefits package and a culture that values both performance and people.Benefits include:Competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage starting day one401(k) with company matchPaid time off and 9 paid holidaysEmployee Assistance Program (EAP)Company-paid life and short-term disability insuranceEmployee discounts on Holley Performance Brands products, events, and partnershipsEducation Assistance ProgramHolley is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability during the application process, please contact Human Resources.