Job Title: Mechanically Trained Operator

Location: Oak Creek, WI, United States

Pay Rate: $24.90/hour + $1,000 Hiring Bonus

Job Type: Permanent

Schedule: 1st, 2nd, or 3rd shift (shift premium for 2nd and 3rd shifts)

Summary:

The Mechanically Trained Operator (MTO) plays a vital role in the production team, ensuring smooth equipment operation and minimal downtime in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Reporting to the Operations Lead, the MTO is responsible for operating, maintaining, and making minor mechanical adjustments to high-speed production equipment.

This position requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and collaboration with both production and maintenance teams to uphold operational excellence and product quality.

Operational Efficiency:

• Operate high-speed packaging and production equipment to meet daily targets.
• Assist in equipment setup, changeovers, and adjustments to ensure smooth workflow.
• Perform minor mechanical maintenance such as clearing jams, tightening fasteners, and replacing simple components like belts or seals.
• Support initiatives to improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) by reducing stoppages and inefficiencies.

Mechanical Support:

• Troubleshoot and resolve minor mechanical issues; escalate complex problems to the Maintenance Technician or Team Lead.
• Conduct routine inspections, lubrication, and cleaning to maintain equipment reliability.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams for timely repairs and equipment upkeep.

Team Support & Employee Engagement:

• Work closely with the Packaging & Bakery Lead to address production and equipment challenges.
• Provide feedback on equipment performance and recommend process improvements.
• Foster teamwork and collaboration across production and maintenance teams.

Documentation & Reporting:

• Accurately record downtime, repairs, and maintenance activities in reporting systems.
• Track and report production throughput, material usage, and waste for data accuracy.

Health, Safety & Compliance:

• Follow OSHA, GMP, SQF, and HACCP standards to maintain a safe work environment.
• Participate in safety initiatives and report potential hazards.

Daily Responsibilities:

• Operate and monitor equipment, making necessary adjustments to maintain production flow.
• Collaborate with team members to resolve operational issues.
• Perform minor mechanical adjustments and report equipment status during shift huddles.

Occasional Responsibilities:

• Assist in developing and updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Participate in Kaizen events to improve process efficiency.
• Conduct root cause analysis (5 Whys) for recurring equipment issues.
• Support cross-functional projects focused on plant performance improvements.

Value-Added Contributions:

• Actively support a "Zero Loss Mindset" by identifying and eliminating inefficiencies.
• Provide insights for process and equipment optimization.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Maximized Equipment Uptime: Ensure optimal machine efficiency with minimal downtime.
• Safety & Compliance: Adhere to OSHA, GMP, SQF, and HACCP regulations.
• Production Efficiency: Consistently meet/exceed production targets while minimizing waste.
• Operational Reliability: Address equipment issues proactively for continuous workflow.
• Continuous Improvement: Support cost-reduction and efficiency enhancement initiatives.

Education & Experience Requirements:

• Experience: 1-2 years in a manufacturing environment (preferably high-speed packaging).
• Education: High school diploma or GED required; technical training in industrial mechanics is a plus.
• Language: Proficiency in English (written and verbal).

Skills & Qualifications:

• Basic knowledge of mechanical systems, including gears, bearings, and sprockets.
• Proficiency with hand tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, calipers, etc.).
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with CMMS systems and production reporting tools (preferred).
• Bonus: Bilingual in English & Spanish is a plus.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:

• Work primarily on the production floor with occasional office engagement.
• 9-hour shifts with some weekend shifts required.
• Frequent standing, bending, kneeling, and occasional crawling.
• Ability to lift/move:
• Up to 10 lbs regularly.
• Up to 25 lbs frequently.
• Up to 50 lbs occasionally.
• Exposure to manufacturing environment hazards (compressed air, grinding, cutting, welding).
• Exposure to extreme temperatures, confined spaces, noise, grease, oils, and dust.