Production Team Member

Location: Russell Springs

Summary:

The Production Team Member is responsible for operating and maintaining production equipment to produce high-quality parts in a lean manufacturing environment. This role requires strong attention to detail, safe material handling practices (including forklift/tugger operation), and precise measurement skills to ensure product conformity, while supporting plant SQDCI objectives through safe operations, standardized work, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

Daily Operations & Execution Operate assigned machinery in accordance with standardized work instructions and production schedules

Set up, adjust, and monitor equipment to ensure consistent performance and output

Perform changeovers, tooling adjustments, and minor machine troubleshooting

Read and interpret work orders, blueprints, and specifications

Safely transport materials and finished goods using forklifts, tuggers, or other material handling equipment (as required and certified)
Manually load and unload parts, including lifting and positioning components onto racks, fixtures, or stands

Escalate equipment or process abnormalities through defined Daily Management System (DMS) channels

Precision Measurement & Quality Control (Critical Focus)
Perform accurate measurements using tools such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, and other inspection devices

Verify parts meet exact specifications and tolerances

Conduct in-process inspections and document results when required

Identify defects immediately, stop production if needed, and escalate per standard procedures

Maintain strict adherence to quality standards and a “right-first-time” mindset

Safety (S)
Follow all safety procedures, machine guarding requirements, and PPE standards

Operate forklifts and tuggers safely in accordance with company policies and OSHA regulations (if certified)
Use proper lifting techniques and follow ergonomic guidelines when manually handling parts

Conduct pre-shift equipment inspections and report any safety issues

Maintain a clean, organized workspace using 5S principles

Identify hazards, report near misses, and support a zero-incident culture

Delivery (D)
Meet production targets and takt time requirements

Maintain steady machine operation to support flow and schedule attainment

Ensure timely movement of materials to and from production areas to prevent delays

Communicate any production delays or risks immediately

Support continuous production flow by minimizing downtime

Cost (C) & Productivity Reduce scrap, rework, and material waste through precise operation and measurement

Optimize cycle times while maintaining quality standards

Perform basic preventive maintenance to support equipment reliability

Minimize downtime through quick response to machine issues

Handle materials efficiently using proper equipment to reduce damage or loss Inventory (I)
Properly track and handle raw materials and finished goods

Maintain WIP control and prevent overproduction

Support FIFO and material traceability requirements

Safely store and transport parts on racks, pallets, or stands to prevent damage

Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement Follow and sustain standard work processes

Maintain 5S organization at the workstation

Identify waste (motion, waiting, defects, over-processing) and suggest improvements

Participate in Kaizen events and continuous improvement initiatives

Support visual management and daily KPI tracking

Accountability & Team Participation:

Participate in Tier 1 (daily) meetings and contribute to problem-solving discussions

Follow direction from the Production Team Leader and support team goals

Take ownership of individual output, quality, and performance metrics

Collaborate with maintenance, quality, and material handling teams

Qualifications and

Experience:

High school diploma or GED preferred1–3+ years of manufacturing or machine operating experience preferred

Experience with precision measurement tools required or strong ability to learn

Forklift/tugger operation experience preferred (or ability to become certified)
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications preferred

Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy

Proficiency with precision measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges)
Mechanical aptitude and equipment troubleshooting ability

Ability to safely operate material handling equipment

Ability to lift and handle parts in a safe and controlled manner

Ability to follow standardized work with discipline and consistency

Problem-solving mindset with a continuous improvement focus

Strong communication and teamwork skills

Work Environment &

Physical Requirements:

Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise, and moving equipment

Requires standing, repetitive motion, and regular lifting of parts

Frequent use of forklifts, tuggers, and manual material handling

Use of PPE required (safety glasses, gloves, etc.)May involve shift work, overtime, and weekend coverage
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