Precision Die-Cutting Operator — Advanced Gasket Fabrication

Shape high‑performance materials into mission‑critical parts

You start your day in Chaska, MN, stepping onto the production floor of American Flexible Products (AFP)—a 100% employee‑owned team known for engineering precision. You’ll set up and run die‑cutting presses, CNC systems (Chieza, Preco, Zund, Water‑jet), laminators, and other converting equipment to produce custom gaskets and components for aerospace, defense, medical, and electronics customers.

About AFP

AFP specializes in custom conversion of foam, sponge, rubber, EMI/RFI shielding materials, and a variety of flexible substrates—solving challenges in gasketing, bonding, vibration dampening, thermal management, and conductivity. We are AS9100‑registered and ITAR‑registered, and a Preferred Converter for both 3M and Rogers Corporation, giving you access to premium materials like 3M adhesives, VHB tapes, and ROGERS PORON and BISCO Silicones. With 35 years of know‑how and advanced engineering, we support everything from rapid prototypes to full‑scale production.

What you’ll handle

• Set up, operate, and continuously monitor converting equipment to produce parts that meet spec—every time.
• Hit productivity targets by managing run speeds, minimizing setup time, and coordinating with support teams.
• Partner across departments to resolve mechanical issues, flag nonconforming material, coordinate job prep and changeovers, and share daily shift updates.
• Troubleshoot raw material and equipment issues to keep work flowing.
• Record production counts and material usage in the ERP system at time of use and completion (Epicor experience is a plus).
• Work safely—participate actively in safety training and follow all plant rules.
• Keep machines and work areas clean and organized.
• Support adjacent processes and take on comparable duties as needed.
  
  

You may be primarily assigned to a specific machine, but you’ll be expected to develop working knowledge across multiple assets and understand our product quality specifications, processes, and procedures.

What success looks like

• Consistent, high‑quality output aligned with AS9100 standards.
• Accurate, real‑time ERP entries for traceability.
• Clear communication during handoffs and changeovers.
  
  

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent; prior machine operation experience in manufacturing.
• Team‑oriented, self‑directed, quick learner who takes initiative.
• Comfort making independent decisions and solving moderate‑level problems.
• Solid basic math and blueprint reading ability.
• Mechanical aptitude with strong attention to detail and willingness to learn new skills.
• Basic computer literacy and ERP familiarity; Epicor exposure preferred.
• Fluent English communication (read/write/speak) and ability to interpret safety, operating, and maintenance instructions; communicate effectively with peers and leaders.
  
  

Physical & work environment

• Stand for extended periods; good hand/eye coordination; occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
• Open to overtime as needed.
• Manufacturing setting with moving machinery in a temperature‑controlled area; moderate noise level.
  
  

Preferred proficiencies

• Troubleshooting Skills
• AS9100 Quality Systems
• Metal Stamping & Forming (Progressive Die)
• CNC Machine Setup & Changeover
• Precision Measurement & Inspection
• Machine Setups for Production Runs
• Tool/Die/Mold Setup Experience
• Blueprint Reading
  
  

Equipment you’ll run or encounter

• Die cutting presses; laminators; CNC equipment (Chieza, Preco, Zund, Water‑jet)
• Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS)
• CNC Laser Cutter
• CNC Waterjet / Waterjet Cutting Machine
• Slitter Machine
• Calipers and Micrometers
  
  

Accessibility

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Location

On‑site in Chaska, MN. As a 100% employee‑owned company, every colleague you work with is an owner—personally invested in quality, service, and your success.