Machine Operator - 1st Shift

About Company:

At Tarter we’ve been building more than gates and equipment since 1945—we’ve been building careers, communities, and a legacy of American craftsmanship. As the largest manufacturer of farm gates and animal management equipment in North America, we take pride in making products that help farmers, ranchers, and property owners work smarter and safer.

Headquartered in Dunnville, Kentucky, we combine small-town values with big opportunities. When you join Tarter, you become part of a team where your ideas matter, your work is valued, and your contributions make a real impact for customers across the country.

Whether you’re on the shop floor, in engineering, customer service, or leadership, you’ll find a workplace built on integrity, innovation, and teamwork. Here, we don’t just talk about getting the job done right, we live it every day.

Join us, and help shape the future of American manufacturing.

About the Role:

The Machine Operator role at Gate Mfg in MFGKY is pivotal in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of various production machinery within a manufacturing environment. The primary objective is to operate, monitor, and maintain machines such as press machines, mold machines, and band saws to produce high-quality components that meet strict industry standards. This position requires a keen attention to detail to perform tasks like deburring and precise measurements using tools such as micrometers, ensuring product accuracy and consistency. The operator will also be responsible for coordinating with team members to maintain smooth assembly line operations and utilizing equipment like overhead cranes and clamp trucks to handle materials safely. Ultimately, the role contributes directly to the overall productivity and quality output of the manufacturing process, supporting the company’s commitment to excellence and timely delivery.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Proven experience operating manufacturing machinery such as press machines and mold machines.
• Basic knowledge of assembly line processes and safety protocols.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and use precision measuring tools like micrometers.
• Physical ability to handle materials and operate equipment such as overhead cranes and clamp trucks safely.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification or training in machine operation or manufacturing technology.
• Experience with deburring techniques and quality control procedures.
• Familiarity with band saw operation and maintenance.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Previous experience working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities:

• Operate and monitor press machines, mold machines, band saws, and other production machinery to manufacture components according to specifications.
• Perform assembly line tasks including deburring and finishing parts to ensure product quality and compliance with safety standards.
• Use precision measuring instruments such as micrometers to verify dimensions and tolerances of manufactured parts.
• Safely handle materials and equipment using overhead cranes and clamp trucks, ensuring proper loading and unloading procedures.
• Conduct routine maintenance and troubleshooting of machinery to minimize downtime and report any malfunctions to maintenance teams.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with company safety and quality policies.
• Collaborate with supervisors and team members to meet production targets and improve operational efficiency.

Skills:

The required skills such as operating press machines, mold machines, and band saws are essential for daily production tasks, enabling the operator to efficiently produce components that meet quality standards. Proficiency with assembly line operations ensures smooth workflow and timely completion of manufacturing cycles. Using precision tools like micrometers allows the operator to verify product dimensions accurately, reducing defects and rework. Handling equipment such as overhead cranes and clamp trucks safely is critical for moving heavy materials and maintaining workplace safety. Preferred skills like deburring and knowledge of lean manufacturing enhance the operator’s ability to contribute to product finishing and process improvements, fostering a culture of quality and efficiency.