Machine Operator - 1st shift

Job Title: Machine Operator
Department: Production - Soft Trim Manufacturing (Automotive)
Status : Non-exempt
Reports To: Production Supervisor
Location: Fraser, MI

Summary
The 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 Do
Essential 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 Bring
Education & 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 Value
Knowledge, 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.