What are the responsibilities and job description for the Tank Plant Utility (2nd and 3rd Shift) position at Laars Heating Systems Company?
Shift Ranges:
2nd: From 3:00pm – Until 11:30pm or 2:00am (depending upon assigned overtime)
3rd: From 10pm – Until 7am or 8am
Shift offerings vary based upon plant openings
Pay Rate: $21.62/hr depending upon experience/job openings shift premium ($1.05 2nd and $1.00 3rd)
We are seeking to add to our Tank Plant Production Team in Middleville, MI. In this role, you will play a hands-on part in building high-quality water heaters used across America. You will work in a fast-paced, team-oriented manufacturing environment where safety, quality, and continuous improvement are top priorities.
Utility Operators provide support across a variety of functions within their assigned department. Team members in this role are expected to be flexible, cross-trained, and willing to perform multiple tasks based on production demands and operational needs.
Responsibilities and Qualifications:
- Follow all safety regulations, PPE requirements, and work instructions
- Maintain reliable attendance and work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
- Perform physical work for extended shifts (8–12 hours)
- Support multiple functions within an assigned department based on production needs
- Safely operate production equipment, hand tools, and machinery
- Operate a Hilo (forklift) to transport materials and finished goods
- Operate sandblasting equipment to prepare materials and components for production
- Load, unload, and move materials throughout the production area
- Perform quality inspections to ensure products meet specifications
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
- Learn new processes, apply feedback, and support continuous improvement efforts
- Perform other duties as assigned
Respirator Requirement for Spray Functions:
• Employees assigned to spray-related functions must be able to wear a fitted respirator.
• Employees working in these areas must remain clean shaven where the respirator seals against the face as a condition of performing the job safely and in compliance with company safety requirements.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous manufacturing or industrial experience
- Experience in metalworking, steel, or aluminum environments
- Mechanical aptitude, including troubleshooting or repairing equipment
- Basic math skills and ability to understand measurements
- Previous forklift experience
- Previous sandblasting, paint, coating, or surface preparation experience
- Willingness and ability to be cross-trained on multiple processes
Skills to Be Successful in This Role:
- Strong teamwork and collaboration mindset
- Clear communication skills (verbal and written)
- Ability to quickly learn and apply new processes and instructions
- Adaptability in a fast-changing production environment
- Openness to feedback and a commitment to continuous improvement
- Problem-solving mindset with the ability to learn from mistakes
- Self-motivated with a focus on personal growth and skill development