Standex Engraving

Machine Operator - 1st shift

Fraser, MI - Contracted to Full Time

Job Title: Machine Operator
Department: Production - Soft Trim Manufacturing (Automotive)
Status: Non-exempt
Reports To: Production Supervisor
Location: Fraser, MI

Summary
The Machine Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining automated equipment in a state-of-the-art automotive interior soft trim and plastic injection molding facility. This plant is a new, small-scale, high-tech operation focused on producing automotive interior components. Operators ensure machines run efficiently, safely, and produce high-quality molded parts that meet customer and automotive standards.

What You’ll Do
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Set up, operate, and monitor specialized machinery to meet production schedules and specifications.
  • Inspect production parts for dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and conformance to automotive quality standards.
  • Record production data, quantities produced, scrap, and machine parameters accurately.
  • Perform routine preventive maintenance, cleaning, and basic troubleshooting to minimize downtime.
  • Assist with mold changes, machine setup, and tooling adjustments.
  • Wrap, protect, label, and package finished parts according to customer and shipping requirements.
  • Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols
  • Maintain a clean, organized workstation and support 5S and lean manufacturing initiatives.
  • Communicate production issues, quality concerns, and improvement opportunities to supervision.
  • Work independently with minimal supervision; demonstrate initiative to improve efficiency and quality.
  • Adheres consistently to attendance/punctuality, safety, and other company policies
What You’ll Bring
Education & Experience requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • 2+ years’ operating soft trim equipment and / or injection molding machines within automotive industry (or similar environment) 
What We Value
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Experience with soft trim part finesse and manual edge-folding preferred.
  • Knowledge of plastic materials, molding parameters, and basic machine troubleshooting; ability to read work instructions and basic engineering drawings.
  • Ability to operate forklift
  • Self-starter; efficient; dependable; strong attention to detail; commitment to safety and quality. 
  • An interest in developing within the company (learning new skills or growth opportunities)
  • Willingness to work required shifts, overtime, and adhere to company attendance policies.
Preferred
  • Experience with statistical process control (SPC), poka-yoke, or process documentation.
  • Certification or training in injection molding equipment, mechanical aptitude, or forklift operation.
  • Familiarity with automotive PPAP, APQP, or ISO IATF quality requirements.
Physical and Environmental Conditions
  • Molding presses, automated handling systems, robotic equipment, and inspection tools. The plant operates under automotive quality standards including IATF 16949 and ISO 9001.
  • Work performed in a manufacturing plant with exposure to noise, heat, and industrial chemicals; use of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and manual handling of parts and materials (manual dexterity).
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs., perform repetitive motions, and work in a manufacturing environment.
Apply: Machine Operator - 1st shift
* Required fields
First name*
Last name*
Email address*
Location
Phone number*
Resume*

Attach resume or Paste resume

Attach resume as .pdf, .doc, .docx, .odt, .txt, or .rtf (limit 5MB) or paste resume

Paste your resume here or attach resume file

If you have worked in a manufacturing environment previously, do you have experience with any of the following? (Check all that apply)*
This role requires standing for long periods, walking, reaching, bending, stooping, gripping, repetitive motion and some lifting, up to 50 lbs. Are you able to perform these physical requirements with or without reasonable accommodation? (*note, if an accommodation is needed, you may request during the hiring process).*
What is your availability to interview (either short screen via phone OR onsite in Fraser, Mi during the week). Please choose all that apply.*
What are your compensation expectations (hourly rate)? Feel free to provide a range if desired*
What shift(s) are you willing to work?*
What interested you in this role?*
Are you authorized to work in the United States, without employer sponsorship now or in the future?*
Are you willing to work overtime when needed?*
Human Check*