Production Team Member

Job Details: Job Location: Manufacturing - Russell Springs, KY, Salary Range: Undisclosed, Summary:

The Production Team Member is responsible for operating and maintaining production equipment to produce high-quality parts in a lean manufacturing environment. This role requires strong attention to detail, safe material handling practices (including forklift/tugger operation), and precise measurement skills to ensure product conformity, while supporting plant SQDCI objectives through safe operations, standardized work, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

Daily Operations & Execution

Operate assigned machinery in accordance with standardized work instructions and production schedules
Set up, adjust, and monitor equipment to ensure consistent performance and output
Perform changeovers, tooling adjustments, and minor machine troubleshooting
Read and interpret work orders, blueprints, and specifications
Safely transport materials and finished goods using forklifts, tuggers, or other material handling equipment (as required and certified)
Manually load and unload parts, including lifting and positioning components onto racks, fixtures, or stands
Escalate equipment or process abnormalities through defined Daily Management System (DMS) channels

Precision Measurement & Quality Control (Critical Focus)

Perform accurate measurements using tools such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other inspection devices
Verify parts meet exact specifications and tolerances
Conduct in-process inspections and document results when required
Identify defects immediately, stop production if needed, and escalate per standard procedures
Maintain strict adherence to quality standards and a “right-first-time” mindset

Safety (S)

Follow all safety procedures, machine guarding requirements, and PPE standards
Operate forklifts and tuggers safely in accordance with company policies and OSHA regulations (if certified)
Use proper lifting techniques and follow ergonomic guidelines when manually handling parts
Conduct pre-shift equipment inspections and report any safety issues
Maintain a clean, organized workspace using 5S principles
Identify hazards, report near misses, and support a zero-incident culture

Delivery (D)

Meet production targets and takt time requirements
Maintain steady machine operation to support flow and schedule attainment
Ensure timely movement of materials to and from production areas to prevent delays
Communicate any production delays or risks immediately
Support continuous production flow by minimizing downtime

Cost (C) & Productivity

Reduce scrap, rework, and material waste through precise operation and measurement
Optimize cycle times while maintaining quality standards
Perform basic preventive maintenance to support equipment reliability
Minimize downtime through quick response to machine issues
Handle materials efficiently using proper equipment to reduce damage or loss

Inventory (I)

Properly track and handle raw materials and finished goods
Maintain WIP control and prevent overproduction
Support FIFO and material traceability requirements
Safely store and transport parts on racks, pallets, or stands to prevent damage

Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement

Follow and sustain standard work processes
Maintain 5S organization at the workstation
Identify waste (motion, waiting, defects, over-processing) and suggest improvements
Participate in Kaizen events and continuous improvement initiatives
Support visual management and daily KPI tracking

Accountability & Team Participation:

Participate in Tier 1 (daily) meetings and contribute to problem-solving discussions
Follow direction from the Production Team Leader and support team goals
Take ownership of individual output, quality, and performance metrics
Collaborate with maintenance, quality, and material handling teams

Qualifications and Experience:

High school diploma or GED preferred
1–3+ years of manufacturing or machine operating experience preferred
Experience with precision measurement tools required or strong ability to learn
Forklift/tugger operation experience preferred (or ability to become certified)
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications preferred
Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy
Proficiency with precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges)
Mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting ability
Ability to safely operate material handling equipment
Ability to lift and handle parts in a safe and controlled manner
Ability to follow standardized work with discipline and consistency
Problem-solving mindset with a continuous improvement focus
Strong communication and teamwork skills

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and moving equipment
Requires standing, repetitive motion, and regular lifting of parts
Frequent use of forklifts, tuggers, and manual material handling
Use of PPE required (safety glasses, gloves, etc.)
May involve shift work, overtime, and weekend coverage

 
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