Press Machine Operator

Press Machine Operator We are seeking a reliable, detail-oriented Press Operator to join our manufacturing team. In this role, you will be operating a cell of specialized machines, taking ownership of equipment setups, quality audits, measurements, and in-process controls to ensure the production of high-quality parts. You won't be expected to have experience with our specific equipment on day one. We are looking for someone who is highly coachable, has strong fundamentals in manufacturing, and is eager to learn and improve every day. If you have good mechanical aptitude, an understanding of tight tolerances, a strong work ethic, and the ability to thrive in a detail-oriented environment, we have a place for you to build your career. Openings on 2nd and 3rd shift (details below). Compensation: $23.25 - $24.25 / hr total pay $22 + $23 / hr base pay $1.25 / hr shift differential Shifts: 2nd: 3:00pm - 11:30am Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) retirement savings plan Paid time off, holidays, and personal leave Responsibilities: Machine Setup & Operation – Configure and operate a multi-machine cell. Enter recipes and parameters, load and off-load materials, and perform complete machine changeovers for new part runs. Quality Audits & Tolerancing – Perform precise in-process inspections using gauges and scopes to verify visual characteristics and ensure parts meet strict blueprint specifications. In-Process Controls & Adjustments – Continuously monitor production and make necessary adjustments to the machine's programs and settings to ensure continuous, high-quality output. Basic Maintenance & Cleanliness – Maintain equipment tooling and perform deep cleaning during changeovers to prevent cross-contamination (requires some squatting, bending, and reaching). Documentation & Tracking – Weigh materials accurately, separate scrap from good parts, and scan correct production data into the ERP/tracking system. Safety & Teamwork – Maintain strict adherence to all safety procedures. Communicate clearly with supervisors and team members across shifts to report any quality or mechanical issues. Requirements: Qualifications: Required: Work Authorization: Due to defense contractor regulations, candidates must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident. Fundamentals: 2+ years of manufacturing experience of any sort. Mindset: Highly coachable with a strong attention to detail. Must be able to maintain focus and quality standards in a somewhat repetitive environment. Education: High School Diploma or GED. Preferred: Machine Operation: Prior experience setting up and operating machinery (e.g., packaging, printing presses, CNC, or punch presses). Quality Control: Proven ability to work with tight tolerances, utilize measuring gauges, and perform quality checks. Physical Requirements & Environment: Climate-controlled manufacturing environment (Note: the pressing area is kept a bit chilly). Ability to stand for full shifts (8 to 12 hours) with intermittent walking, sitting, bending, twisting, and reaching to access/clean machines. Ability to lift up to 33 lbs safely. Use of hands and fingers for fine motor tasks and handling tools safely. Visual acuity for reading gauges and inspecting products. Comfortable wearing required PPE, including safety glasses with side-shields, steel-toed shoes, and cut-resistant gloves when necessary.