MACHINE OPERATOR - Steel

GODERICH MANUFACTURING PLANT - EXISTING VACANCY

PRIMARY FOCUS

Responsible for operating and monitoring production equipment used in the fabrication of steel products. This role ensures parts are manufactured accurately, efficiently, and safely while supporting quality, productivity and continuous improvement objectives.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Machine Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of production equipment used in the fabrication and processing of steel components. This role ensures products are manufactured according to specifications, quality standards, and production schedules while maintaining a safe and organized work environment.

The job description is a summary of the job duties and responsibilities. It is not intended to cover all possible job duties and is subject to change at the employer’s discretion. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions and satisfy job requirements either with or without reasonable accommodation.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Machine Operation (Primary Function)

1. Set up, operate, and monitor assigned production equipment


2. Produce parts according to drawings, specifications, and work instructions


3. Load and unload materials safely and efficiently


4. Monitor machine performance and adjust settings as required


5. Verify product dimensions and quality throughout the production process


6. Meet established production targets and schedules


7. Minimize waste and maximize equipment efficiency


8. Follow all operating procedures and quality requirements

Equipment Set-Up & Changeovers

1. Perform machine set-up activities for scheduled production runs


2. Select proper tooling, dies, fixtures, and machine settings


3. Complete product changeovers safely and efficiently


4. Verify machine readiness before beginning production


5. Assist in developing and improving set up procedures


6. Reduce set up times where possible


7. Participate in training and education on new equipment, methods or technologies implemented to improve organizations efficiency and quality goals

Quality Control

1. Read and interpret drawings, work orders, and specifications


2. Conduct first-off, in-process, and final inspections


3. Accurate use of measuring equipment such as: tape measures, calipers, squares, protractors, gauges


4. Identify and report defects or non-conformances


5. Segregate non-conforming materials and products


6. Ensure products meet customer and company quality standards

Production Support

1. Work closely with material handlers to ensure adequate material supply


2. Communicate production issues,
   
   
   
   shortages, and delays to supervisors


3. Assist coworkers during peak production periods


4. Support achievement of departmental production goals


5. Participate in continuous improvement initiatives

Equipment Care & Preventative Maintenance

1. Conduct routine equipment inspections before operation


2. Complete daily operator maintenance tasks


3. Maintain machines in clean and orderly condition


4. Report equipment malfunctions, wear, or safety concerns


5. Assist maintenance personnel during troubleshooting activities


6. Support efforts to minimize equipment downtime

Housekeeping & Organization

• Maintain workstations in an organized condition


• Keep tools, materials, and equipment properly stored


• Remove scrap and waste materials regularly


• Support company housekeeping and 5S initiatives


• Ensure work areas remain free of hazards and obstructions

Safety & Compliance

1. Follow all company health and safety policies and procedures


2. Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE)


3. Operate equipment is a safe and responsible manner


4. Follow lockout/tagout procedures where required


5. Immediately report hazards, near misses, incidents, and injuries


6. Participate in safety meetings and training programs


7. Maintain a clean and safe work area


8. Comply with all applicable company and regulatory requirements

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Experience

1. Previous experience operating manufacturing equipment preferred.


2. Experience in steel fabrication, metal processing, or industrial manufacturing considered an asset.


3. Experience working in a production environment with production targets and quality standards.


4. Previous experience with CNC, saws, drills, presses, plasma tables, laser cutting, or roll-forming equipment considered an asset.

Technical Skills

1. Ability to read basic manufacturing drawings and work instructions


2. Experience using measuring and inspection equipment


3. Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability


4. Understanding of manufacturing processes and production workflows


5. Ability to perform basic equipment set up and adjustments






6. Forklift or overhead crane experience considered an asset

Soft Skills

1. Strong attention to detail


2. Dependable and reliable work ethic


3. Strong problem-solving skills


4. Ability to work independently and as part of a team


5. Strong communication skills


6. Positive attitude and willingness to learn


7. Ability to prioritize tasks in a rapid-paced environment


8. Commitment to safety and quality

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS

1. Ability to stand and walk for extended periods


2. Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling of materials


3. Ability to lift up to 60lbs. regularly and heavier loads with assistance or equipment


4. Frequent bending, twisting, reaching and climbing


5. Ability to work in a manufacturing environment that may include: noise, dust, heat, cold, welding activities, moving equipment, seasonal and environmental factors (both in and outdoors)


6. Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety boots, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, hi-visibility clothing and task or job specific PPE

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)

• Production output versus target


• Quality and first-pass yield


• Scrap and rework rates


• Equipment utilization


• Setup and changeover efficiency


• Attendance and reliability


• Safety performance


• Housekeeping and 5S compliance


• Downtime reporting and response

REPORTING STRUCTURE

• Reports to: Supervisor and/or Lead Hand


• Works closely with: Production team, Welders, Maintenance personnel, quality personnel, production planning

VALUE TO THE ORGANIZATION

This role is essential to delivering safe, high-quality, and efficient manufacturing operations. The Machine Operator ensures equipment is utilized effectively while producing quality products that meet or exceed customer expectations.

The Machine Operator:

1. Supports efficient production operations


2. Ensures product quality and consistency


3. Reduces waste, delays, and production disruptions, and rework


4. Maintains equipment operation


5. Contributes to on-time customer deliveries


6. Supports continuous improvement initiatives


7. Helps maximize equipment performance and productivity.

COMPENSATION

The salary range reflected in any job posting intended as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on a number of factors, including candidate experience, skills, qualifications, geographic location as well as internal equity and budget considerations.