Equipment Operator

Production Equipment Operator

Simpson Race Products, a premier manufacturer of racing safety equipment, has an opening for a full-time Production Equipment Operator on first shift at its New Braunfels, TX facility. This role is central to our manufacturing workflow, responsible for operating a suite of automated and semi-automated production equipment used in the fabrication of racing apparel and safety gear. We are seeking a fast learner with strong technical aptitude, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to coordinate effectively with logistics and materials planning teams.

The Production Equipment Operator is responsible for the setup, operation, and basic maintenance of multiple production machines including an automated fabric cutting table, sublimation printer, sublimation transfer machine, die cutting machine, and DTF (Direct-to-Film) printer. This individual must be capable of planning and sequencing machine work based on active job orders, prioritizing tasks to maximize throughput, and working closely with the logistics and material planning teams to ensure materials are available and jobs are completed on schedule.

Key responsibilities include:

• Set up and operate the automated fabric cutting table, loading fabric rolls and configuring cut files per job order specifications
• Monitor cutting operations in real time, identifying and resolving material feed issues, blade wear, or file errors
• Perform basic blade changes, calibration checks, and routine preventive maintenance
• Stack, label, and stage cut panels for downstream sewing or assembly operations
• Operate the sublimation printer to produce full-color graphics, logos, and patterned designs on transfer paper per approved artwork files
• Manage print queues, ICC color profiles, and RIP software settings to maintain color accuracy and consistency
• Operate the sublimation heat transfer machine, setting correct time, temperature, and pressure parameters per fabric type
• Inspect finished sublimation transfers and garments for color fidelity, registration accuracy, and surface quality
• Perform routine maintenance on print heads, platens, and heating elements; escalate mechanical issues to maintenance as needed
• Operate the DTF printer to produce high-resolution film transfers for application to garments and accessories
• Manage ink levels, film loading, and printer settings to ensure consistent print quality across production runs
• Cure and powder DTF prints using appropriate equipment, following correct temperature and dwell-time protocols
• Inspect finished DTF transfers for color accuracy, adhesion quality, and print completeness before application
• Perform daily equipment checks, cleaning, and preventive maintenance tasks across all assigned machines
• Maintain an organized, clean, and safe work area in compliance with 5S standards
• Report equipment malfunctions, wear, or safety concerns to the maintenance team promptly
• Adhere to all safety rules, regulations, and PPE requirements at all times

Skills and qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certifications in equipment operation, printing, or manufacturing a plus
• Demonstrated ability to learn new equipment, software, and processes quickly and independently
• Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot basic machine issues and perform routine maintenance
• Proficiency with computers and production software; comfortable learning proprietary machine control systems and RIP/nesting software
• Exceptional attention to detail with a quality-first mindset
• Effective communication skills to coordinate closely with logistics, material planning, and production supervision

Preferred:

• Prior experience operating any of the following: automated fabric cutting systems (e.g. Lectra, Gerber, Zünd), sublimation printers (e.g. Epson, Mimaki, Sawgrass), DTF printers, or die cutting machines
• Familiarity with color management, ICC profiles, and RIP software (e.g. Wasatch, Caldera, or similar)
• Experience reading and interpreting production job orders, work instructions, or bill of materials (BOM)
• Background in apparel manufacturing, sports equipment production, or a related industrial environment
• Experience with production scheduling or coordination with supply chain/logistics teams

Work style and dependability:

• Fast learner who thrives in a dynamic, multi-machine production environment
• Self-motivated with the ability to prioritize and manage workload with minimal supervision
• Team-oriented with a collaborative approach to problem-solving
• Dependable, with a consistent attendance record and professional demeanor
• Willingness to work extended hours and occasional Saturdays as production demands require

Physical demands:

• Frequent standing and walking throughout the shift in a production environment
• Occasional lifting and carrying of fabric rolls, material bins, and finished goods weighing up to 40 pounds
• Repetitive hand and arm movements associated with machine setup, material loading, and inspection tasks
• Extended periods of…