Machine Operator (Presses) - First Shift

The Press Operator is responsible for operating, setting up, and maintaining mechanical or hydraulic presses used in the manufacturing of steel components. This role includes running production parts, changing out dies, and troubleshooting equipment issues to ensure efficient, high-quality output. The Press Operator plays a critical role in maintaining production flow, minimizing downtime, and ensuring safe operation of press equipment.

WHY GRIP-TITE MANUFACTURING CO.?

Grip-Tite Manufacturing Co. offers a challenging environment, competitive benefits, and a culture that promotes growth, along with celebrating success. Here at Grip-Tite we realize that our greatest assets are our employees, and we are committed to developing and promoting our talented and dedicated team members to support our future leadership needs.

Grip-Tite is over 100 years young, and we are proud to say that all our products are made with American steel right here in the USA.  

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operates mechanical and/or hydraulic presses to produce parts according to specifications.
• Monitors press operation to ensure consistent quality and production efficiency.  
• Adjust machine settings such as stroke, pressure and feed rates as needed.  
• Conducts-first piece inspections after setup to verify quality and tolerances.  
• Perform die setup and changeovers, including removal and installation of dies. 
• Aligns and secures die(s) to ensure proper operation and part accuracy.  
• Performs routine cleaning and preventative maintenance on equipment.  
• Over time, diagnoses and troubleshoots issues with presses, including misfeeds, tooling wear, and mechanical problems.  
• Identifies and escalates maintenance issues requiring advanced repair.  
• Maintains accurate production records and material traceability.   
• Follow all safety procedures related to press area and utilizes proper PPE. 
• Responsible for reporting equipment issues or material shortages to manager, or lead personnel.
• Maintains equipment and work areas.  Keeps area(s) clean and free of safety hazards.   
• Must be able to fill out required paperwork completely and accurately.     
• Must have a positive attitude and holds oneself accountable to work as one team to ensure Grip-Tite's overall success.  
• Other job duties will be required.  Any employee who is trained in the press room area may be assigned to work in another area or become cross-trained to work in another area as business needs require.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• A year or more of operating presses in a manufacturing environment is preferred.  
• Ability to read work orders and prints.  
• Experience operating forklifts or overhead cranes (or ability to become certified). 
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn.
• Solid mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability.  
• Ability to lift and move materials up to required weight limits.
• Commitment to workplace safety.
• Familiarity with progressive dies or stamping operations.  
• Previous experience with hydraulics, pneumatic, or mechanical press systems preferred. 
• Familiarity with measuring tools (tape measure, calipers, etc.) preferred.
• Must be able to drive a forklift or learn to drive a forklift through company provided training.  
• Manufacturing / fabrication shop setting.
• Exposure to heat, sparks, noise, metal fumes, and dust.
• Standing for extended periods of time and performing repetitive tasks. 
• Regular exposure to changing temperatures (hot, cold, humid).
• The noise level in the work environment can be loud; vibration levels are moderate to loud. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Manufacturing / fabrication shop setting.
• Exposure to heat, sparks, noise, metal fumes, and dust.
• Requires use of PPE such as gloves, hearing protection, safety glasses, safety shoes, weld helmet as needed, and other protective clothing. 
• Standing for extended periods of time and performing repetitive tasks. 
• Regular exposure to changing temperatures (hot, cold, humid). 
• Manufacturing / fabrication shop setting.
• The noise level in the work environment can be loud; vibration levels are moderate to loud.

PHYSICAL & OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

• Manual dexterity for tool operation.
• Ability to lift, push, or pull material as needed.
• This position is active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching all day with the ability to be mobile throughout required work areas.
• This position requires the use of repetitive motion – using hand and power tools. 
• The employee may frequently lift and/or move items up to 55 lbs. on a regular basis and up to 75 lbs. on occasion with our without assistance.   
• Must have a valid driver's license in good standing to operate and be trained to drive a company forklift.  

PRE-EMPLOYMENT TESTING:

External hiring into this position is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment, post-offer drug screen as well as a background check.

Grip-Tite Manufacturing is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Grip-Tite Manufacturing is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to, among other things, race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with disability.