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Operations Specialist Assistant

Nebraska Aluminum Castings
Hastings, NE Full Time
POSTED ON 6/18/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/16/2026
Job Summary:
We are looking for a detail-oriented and proactive **Operations Data Assistant** to support daily production operations in our aluminum foundry and die casting facility. This role bridges shop floor execution with data analysis and continuous improvement efforts, ensuring efficient, high-quality production of metal components. The ideal candidate is hands-on, data-driven, and able to collaborate effectively with operators and teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Bilingual fluency in **English and Spanish** is a plus.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist in monitoring and optimizing daily production processes in aluminum melting, die casting, trimming, and finishing operations to meet production targets, quality standards, and delivery schedules.
  • Support **Lean manufacturing** initiatives, including the implementation and sustainment of **5S** (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain) practices across the shop floor to improve workplace organization, safety, and efficiency.
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret production data using **MS Excel**; create charts, graphs, **Pareto** analyses, trend reports, and other visualizations to identify bottlenecks, defects, scrap causes, and opportunities for improvement.
  • Collaborate closely with shop floor operators, team leads, and supervisors to gather insights, troubleshoot issues, provide coaching on best practices, and implement process changes in real time.
  • Conduct regular Gemba walks and audits on the production floor to ensure adherence to standard work, safety protocols, and quality procedures; be hands-on when necessary to assist with setups, changeovers, or minor troubleshooting.
  • Drive **data-driven** problem-solving by tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), cycle times, scrap rates, downtime, and first-pass yield; prepare reports and recommendations for management.
  • Support customer service by ensuring production aligns with customer specifications and delivery requirements; communicate effectively with internal teams and, when needed, assist in addressing customer inquiries or quality concerns.
  • Participate in continuous improvement projects, Kaizen events, root cause analysis (e.g., using 5-Why or fishbone diagrams), and corrective action implementation to reduce waste and enhance productivity.
  • Maintain accurate documentation, including production logs, work instructions, audit records, and improvement trackers.
  • Promote a safe, compliant, and inclusive work environment while adhering to all company policies, OSHA regulations, and industry standards for foundry and die casting operations.

Required Qualifications & Skills:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree in manufacturing, industrial engineering, operations management, or a related field preferred.
  • 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in **metal industry**, **aluminum foundry**, **die casting**, or related production processes (e.g., operating or supporting casting machines, handling molten metal, or finishing operations).
  • Strong knowledge of **Lean manufacturing** principles and hands-on experience implementing **5S** in a production setting.
  • Advanced proficiency in **MS Excel** — must be able to create pivot tables, charts, **Pareto** charts, trend lines, and basic data analysis formulas.
  • Proven ability to work collaboratively on the shop floor with operators and production teams; excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Data-driven mindset with strong **attention to detail**; ability to spot anomalies in processes or data quickly.
  • Customer-focused approach with the ability to prioritize quality and on-time delivery.
  • Hands-on attitude — willing and able to step into production tasks when required (e.g., supporting changeovers or audits).
  • Basic understanding of production metrics, quality control, and safety practices in a foundry/die casting setting.
  • Ability to work in a physically demanding environment (standing for long periods, exposure to heat/noise, lifting up to 50 lbs. occasionally).

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with die casting machines, trim presses, furnaces, or related equipment.
  • Familiarity with quality tools (e.g., control charts, SPC) or continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma basics, Kaizen).
  • Previous exposure to ERP/MES systems for production tracking.

Join us as an Operational Specialist Assistant and become a vital part of our mission to deliver exceptional support through organized processes and outstanding service! We value energetic individuals eager to grow their careers while making a positive impact every day.

Work Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm.

Job Type: Full-time.

Benefits:
  • Dental insurance.
  • Health insurance.
  • Health savings account.
  • Life insurance.
  • Vision insurance.


About Nebraska Aluminum Castings:

Please visit our Company Website to learn more about our company!

Salary : $20 - $28

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