Cell Operator

SUMMARY: Operates the vibratory welding cell used to assemble pallets. The position requires prior machine-operation aptitude and the ability to understand equipment, automation, and robots; recognize abnormal conditions; perform basic assessments; and escalate equipment or quality issues appropriately.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operate the vibratory welding cell and associated automated equipment/robots in accordance with approved operating procedures and production schedules.

• Perform start-up, normal operation, changeover/adjustment activities within trained authorization, and shutdown procedures.

• Load or verify components/materials as required and ensure correct product flow through the cell.

• Monitor machine status, cycle performance, alarms, sensors, robot activity, and other operating conditions.

• Perform basic first-level assessment of machine or robot faults; clear only authorized minor faults and escalate maintenance/controls issues when required.

• Inspect assembled pallets for visible weld, alignment, component, or other quality defects and follow reject/containment procedures.

• Record production counts, downtime, rejects, and required process information accurately.

• Coordinate with material handlers and forklift drivers to maintain component supply and finished/rejected material flow.

• Maintain cell housekeeping/5S and comply with guarding, lockout/tagout boundaries, PPE, and all plant safety requirements.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS

• Previous manufacturing machine-operator experience preferred; demonstrated mechanical/technical aptitude required.

• Ability to understand HMI/machine status information, alarms, basic sensors, and automated/robotic equipment.

• Ability to follow standardized operating procedures and recognize when equipment or product conditions are outside normal expectations.

• Basic troubleshooting/problem-solving skills with discipline to escalate issues outside operator authorization.

• Communication, comprehension of instructions, and ability to respond in a clear, concise, and respectful manner are essential.

• Basic computer/data-entry skills and ability to document production and downtime information.

• Reliable attendance and ability to work independently while coordinating effectively with production, quality, and maintenance teams.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Safety-first behavior and compliance with all plant policies, PPE requirements, and authorized work practices.

• Consistent attendance, punctuality, dependability, teamwork, and respectful workplace conduct.

• Ability to learn and follow standard work, respond to supervisor direction, and report unsafe, abnormal, or nonconforming conditions promptly.

• Maintain work area organization and housekeeping/5S standards.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Regular standing and walking; frequent reaching, handling, and interaction with production equipment.

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull production components within established job limits, using mechanical assistance when required.

• Ability to visually inspect product and equipment conditions and safely work around automated machinery.

• Required use of plant PPE and compliance with machine guarding and hazardous-energy procedures.

Work is performed primarily indoors in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, temperature variation, moving equipment, and industrial processes. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Physical requirements should be validated by HR/EHS for the final approved job description and should reflect the actual essential functions of the assignment.