Machine Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Machine Operator

Job Description

This role involves operating grinding machines in a high-volume manufacturing environment, focusing on loading and unloading parts, performing basic machine operations, and conducting quality checks using precision measuring tools. You will primarily work on a first-shift schedule with a four 10-hour day workweek and occasional Friday work, with the potential to learn additional equipment such as mills and lathes over time.

Responsibilities

• Load parts weighing approximately 2–10 pounds into grinding machines according to established procedures.
• Start and operate grinding machines by engaging controls and monitoring basic machine functions during the cycle.
• Pay close attention to how parts are oriented and loaded into the machine to ensure consistent quality and correct processing.
• Inspect finished parts for quality using manual micrometers and calipers, verifying that dimensions meet required tolerances.
• Separate and sort parts that pass inspection, placing them on carts or in bins for the next step in the production process.
• Handle parts carefully throughout the loading, grinding, and unloading process to prevent damage and maintain product integrity.
• Perform basic grinding operations, including cylindrical and precision grinding, as needed once trained.
• Support grinding operations on pins ranging in size from approximately 5/16" up to 2 1/2"–3" while holding tight tolerances, such as ±0.5 as specified.
• Follow all safety procedures and use required personal protective equipment, including steel-toe footwear, safety glasses, and hearing protection.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area to support a safe and efficient production environment.
• Work reliably according to the established schedule, demonstrating strong attendance and punctuality.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production goals and address any issues with machine operation or part quality.
• Participate in training on additional equipment such as mills, lathes, CNC machines, and automated grinding systems as opportunities arise.
• Read and interpret basic measurements and, when required, simple blueprints or specifications related to the parts being produced.
• Adapt to occasional schedule changes, including potential third-shift assignments, as production needs require.

Essential Skills

• At least 2 years of experience working as a machine operator in manufacturing with the same employer within the last 3–5 years.
• Hands-on experience in a manufacturing or manual labor environment, which may include backgrounds such as industrial production or farming.
• Ability to operate basic production machinery, including loading and unloading parts safely and efficiently.
• Ability to read and use manual micrometers and calipers to verify part dimensions and quality, or a strong aptitude to learn these tools quickly.
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with mechanical equipment, grinding machines, and related production tools.
• Strong attention to detail, especially when loading parts, monitoring machine operation, and inspecting finished components.
• Reliability and commitment to consistent attendance, with the ability to work a four 10-hour day schedule and occasional additional shifts.
• Willingness to follow detailed safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment at all times.
• Capability to work in a production environment handling parts weighing approximately 2–10 pounds throughout the shift.
• Openness to training on basic machine operation tasks and following step-by-step instructions for equipment use.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with CNC mills and lathes or automated grinding equipment.
• Manual grinding experience, including cylindrical or precision grinding.
• Experience with Acme machines or similar equipment.
• Experience using Sheffield gauges or similar precision measurement systems.
• Experience running Cincinnati or Norton grinding machines.
• Experience holding tight tolerances on ground components, such as pins ranging from approximately 5/16" to 2 1/2"–3".
• Previous experience working third shift or overnight schedules.
• Familiarity with reading blueprints or basic manufacturing drawings.
• Experience in plastics or other manufacturing environments where attention to detail and quality checks are critical.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new machines and processes quickly and apply training effectively.

Why Work Here?

This opportunity offers a contract-to-hire path with a company that invests in its employees through training, development, and long-term career growth. Once hired directly, employees can access a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, paid time off, and a 401(k) plan. The organization promotes a culture of safety, reliability, and continuous improvement, providing a clean, well-organized production environment and opportunities to learn additional equipment such as mills, lathes, and CNC machines. Employees benefit from a structured schedule, a supportive team atmosphere, and the chance to build stable, long-term employment with a company that values their contributions.

Work Environment

The role is based in a manufacturing facility that produces pins for transmissions and semi-trailers, operating in a clean and organized production environment where safety is the top priority. The standard schedule follows a four 10-hour day format, typically from 6:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, with most Fridays scheduled for an additional 8-hour shift as needed. The facility runs a 24/5 operation with occasional Saturday work and no Sunday work. Some positions may operate on a third-shift schedule, such as 7:30 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Sunday night through Wednesday night, depending on production requirements. The work involves standing at machines, loading and unloading parts weighing approximately 2–10 pounds, and working around grinding, machining, and CNC equipment. Personal protective equipment is mandatory, including steel-toe footwear, safety glasses, and hearing protection, reflecting the strong emphasis on safety. The environment values consistent attendance and punctuality, with clear expectations around reliability and communication. Employees work with manual micrometers, calipers, grinding machines, and other production tools in a structured, process-driven setting designed to support both productivity and employee well-being.

This is a Contract position based out of Millington, MI.

The pay range for this position is $17.00 - $17.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Millington,MI.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 1, 2026.

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.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.