Operator Technician

Operator Technician - 1st OR 2nd Shift Available!

This role offers a clear pathway from Operator Technician into Maintenance Technician. You will begin as a Finish Technician, setting up and operating finishing machines, being the first responder to machine malfunctions, and partnering closely with Maintenance Technicians to troubleshoot and repair equipment. As you grow in the role, you will develop your mechanical and basic electrical skills, guide other operators to prevent recurring issues, and play a key part in keeping production running smoothly in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate finishing machines within the assigned department to support production needs.
• Serve as the first responder to machine malfunctions, quickly assessing issues and performing initial troubleshooting.
• Perform mechanical troubleshooting and minor repairs on equipment such as hydraulic and pneumatic pumps, spray guns, hoses, conveyors, elevators, ovens, sealers, sanders, belts, pulleys, brushes, motors, bearings, valves, and rollers.
• Escalate complex issues to Maintenance Technicians after completing logical troubleshooting steps and partner with them to diagnose and repair problems, building your technical skills in the process.
• Monitor all equipment in the department to identify potential issues early and help prevent unplanned downtime.
• Educate and guide other machine operators on proper use of equipment and best practices to avoid repetitive machine errors.
• Communicate professionally over radio and in person, responding promptly and appropriately to calls and requests from production and other teams.
• Apply preventive maintenance practices and follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures to ensure safe work on machinery.
• Use logical, methodical thinking to identify root causes of equipment and process issues and propose effective solutions.
• Maintain a strong customer service mindset, treating production as your internal customer by listening to concerns, meeting their needs, and clearly communicating technical issues up the chain.
• Work overtime and support other areas of the facility as needed to meet production demands.
• Follow all safety guidelines and use required personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with specific equipment and in areas with paint and stain fumes.
• Safely maneuver heavy items, such as 300-pound stain barrels, using the techniques and equipment provided.
• Contribute positively to a team-oriented environment, collaborating with colleagues and supporting a culture of continuous improvement.

Essential Skills:

• Strong mechanical troubleshooting skills, including experience working with pumps, spray guns, hoses, belts, brushes, and similar components.
• Demonstrated ability to perform preventive maintenance tasks and follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures.
• Logical thinking and problem-solving ability, including root cause analysis and a structured approach to troubleshooting technical issues.
• Ability to work effectively in a hot, physically demanding environment and safely maneuver heavy materials using proper technique.
• Professional communication skills, including clear and timely responses to radio calls and the ability to explain technical issues to both technical and non-technical colleagues.
• Customer service mindset, with the ability to support production teams, listen to concerns, and communicate solutions and preventative measures.
• Willingness and ability to work overtime and assist in other areas of the facility when needed.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and maintain a positive, cooperative attitude.

Additional Skills & Qualifications:

• Basic understanding of electrical systems, including awareness of electrical hazards (such as 480V), and the importance of lockout/tagout and staying clear of unsafe conditions.
• Mechanical aptitude with prior experience in machine operation and setup.
• Interest in developing skills toward a Maintenance Technician role through hands-on troubleshooting and collaboration with maintenance staff.

Why Work Here?

Employees receive tools provided by the company, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, HSA and FSA options, and life insurance that begin on the first day of employment. A 401(k) plan with matching contributions is available after 60 days, along with a structured paid time off accrual program that grows with tenure. After six months, employees become eligible for a substantial discount on cabinets. The company fosters a positive culture with regular activities such as cookouts and parties and places a strong emphasis on promoting from within, offering clear opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Work Environment:

This is a 1st shift role, Monday through Friday, from 5:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m, 2nd shift 1:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The work takes place in a manufacturing environment that can be very hot during peak summer months, with designated areas reaching up to approximately 105F and noticeable paint and stain fumes. The job is physically demanding, involving regular movement, equipment interaction, and occasional handling of heavy materials using provided techniques. You will work around hydraulic and pneumatic pumps, spray equipment, conveyors, ovens, sealers, sanders, belts, pulleys, brushes, motors, bearings, valves, and rollers. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided and required when working with specific equipment and in designated areas. The environment is fast-paced, safety-focused, and team-oriented, with clear procedures and an emphasis on communication and collaboration.

Job Type & Location:

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Goshen, IN.

Pay and Benefits:

The pay range for this position is $21.00 - $21.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. 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 Goshen,IN.

Application Deadline:

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 25, 2026.