Manufacturing Machine Operator I

Peckham is a nonprofit vocational rehabilitation organization. We specialize in providing vocational rehabilitation and training opportunities for people with significant disabilities, and/or other barriers to employment. These jobs are open to all abilities but Peckham gives preference to individuals with disabilities.

Important Details:
Wage: $13.73 per hour

Hours:

7:30 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday plus overtime as necessary Full-Time positions only

Location:

3510 Capital City Blvd Lansing, MI 48906

The Machine Operator I is responsible for operating manufacturing equipment to support fabric spreading & cutting OR cut component/dye cut production functions. Based on business needs, this role may work in one primary area or be cross trained to support both. Responsibilities include machine operation, material handling, inspection, documentation, and adherence to quality and safety standards. Operators ensure accurate cutting, component preparation, and material usage reporting while maintaining productivity and contributing to a clean and safe work environment.

• Employee may perform duties in one area or cross-functionally in both

• Operate spreading machines to lay fabric evenly and inspect for defects
• Load correct markers before initiating cuts
• Verify shade consistency, count plies, and ensure accurate fabric layering
• Set machine parameters and markers based on pattern requirements
• Move spreads to cutting area and operate cutting machines to cut patterns
• Troubleshoot cutting issues and adjust machine settings as needed
• Record fabric yardage and support ERP/Shop Floor entry tasks
• Ensure quality and utilization targets are met

• Operate Ink stamp equipment, Eagle Laser equipment, cutting equipment for components such as Velcro, elastic, webbing, zipper tape, hook/loop, labels, etc.
• Load/unload components, separate sizes/colors, and maintain labeling accuracy
• Monitor machines, clean equipment, and report malfunctions
• Follow FIFO workflow and support component release schedules
• Maintain component inventory accuracy and assist in distribution to production

• Maintain excellent attendance, communication, professionalism, and teamwork
• Participate in safety and ergonomic programs
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation
• Assist with training and cross-training of employees when requested
• Perform other duties as assigned based on production needs

• No prior experience is required, training is provided
• 18 years of age or older
• Basic reading, communication, and math skills
• Ability to follow written, verbal, or diagram instructions
• Basic computer skills and detail-oriented work habits
• Ability to identify defects, errors, and machine issues
• Willingness to perform either Spreading/Cutting OR Component Cutting, with cross-training potential

Regular standing, walking, reaching, and lifting. Lift/move up to 40lbs frequently and up to 80lbs occasionally. Exposure to moving mechanical parts or airborne particles. Requires color vision and depth perception. Moderate noise level working environment. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While carrying out the responsibilities of this position, the employee will regularly need to stand, sit, walk, and use their hands for handling or feeling objects. Strong communication skills are essential. Asking questions and expressing concerns is critical to success. The role frequently requires standing and reaching with hands and arms.

Employees must be able to lift and/or move up to 40 pounds on a regular basis and occasionally lift and/or move up to 80 pounds. Specific vision requirements for this position include the ability to distinguish colors. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to…