Production Team Member

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