Buffer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Key Responsibilities

AGV Operations & Support

• Monitor daily AGV performance and ensure uninterrupted material delivery to production areas.
• Respond to AGV faults, alarms, and operational interruptions.
• Perform first-level troubleshooting and recovery of AGV systems.
• Execute AGV route validations, testing, and operational checks.
• Assist with AGV software updates, configuration changes, and deployment activities.
• Coordinate with Engineering, IT, Maintenance, and AGV vendors to resolve technical issues.

Material Flow Management

• Support efficient movement of raw materials from buffer locations to designated lineside staging areas.
• Validate material replenishment processes and ensure material availability at point of use.
• Monitor and optimize buffer inventory levels to support production requirements.
• Identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements to material flow processes.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on automation and inventory optimization.

Inventory Control & Accuracy

• Maintain inventory accuracy within AGV-serviced buffer and staging areas.
• Investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies.
• Support cycle count activities and inventory reconciliation efforts.
• Ensure transactions are completed accurately and in a timely manner within the ERP/MRP system.
• Monitor compliance with material handling and inventory control procedures.

Training & Documentation

• Develop and maintain standard work instructions related to AGV operations.
• Train and support material handlers and inventory personnel on AGV interaction procedures.
• Document troubleshooting activities, recurring issues, and corrective actions.
• Assist in developing best practices for automated material delivery systems.

Safety & Compliance

• Promote safe interaction between employees and automated equipment.
• Ensure AGV operating areas remain compliant with plant safety standards.
• Participate in safety audits and corrective action activities.
• Adhere to all company policies, quality requirements, and operational procedures.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in Inventory Control, Materials Management, Warehousing, or Manufacturing Operations.
• Basic understanding of inventory transactions and material handling processes.
• Experience using ERP/MRP systems and handheld scanning devices.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in inventory control, production support, or material planning functions.
• Exposure to automation technologies, AGVs, AMRs, robotics, or industrial control systems.
• Knowledge of material flow concepts including supermarkets, buffers, staging areas, Kanban, and pull systems.
• Experience participating in Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement initiatives.
• Technical training, certifications, or coursework related to automation, robotics, or industrial technology.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Understanding of inventory control principles and material replenishment processes.
• Ability to learn AGV programming, configuration, and troubleshooting techniques.
• Mechanical and technical aptitude with automation equipment.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
• Attention to detail with a focus on inventory accuracy and process discipline.
• Ability to analyze operational data and identify process improvement opportunities.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during the workday.
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds occasionally.
• Frequent movement throughout manufacturing and warehouse environments.
• Ability to safely work around automated equipment and moving vehicles.
• Ability to use computers, tablets, scanners, and diagnostic devices.