Cell Associate Jobs in South Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Shape the future today.

The world is changing. The question is, what will be our contribution to the outcome? We have set the pace in the field of mobility from the very beginning, and we will continue to do so. At Mercedes-Benz Vans, interdisciplinary teams are developing the mobility of tomorrow. Our goal is to make mobility safer, simpler, and more sustainable for people across the globe. Put your pioneering spirit to good use: This is your opportunity to make a contribution that extends far beyond your job title. 

At Mercedes-Benz Vans, we offer you the perfect environment for your professional and personal growth. Cutting-edge training and promising career opportunities will help you to foster and expand your professional skill set as well as your individual strengths. Think, try, and thrive with us in collaborative work environments that spark game-changing concepts.

Job Overview:

Taking full ownership of an assigned production area, ensuring optimal equipment performance, resolving most unplanned stops, and maintaining high product quality standards. The role involves understanding cell sequences, performing quality assurance actions, and conducting preventive maintenance tasks. Additionally, responsibilities include documenting volume losses, ensuring compliance with established processes, and conducting root cause analysis for machinery failures. The role also emphasizes continuous improvement, readiness of backup equipment, and managing specialized projects as assigned.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor and operate production equipment and systems to meet daily quality and volume targets. Handle minor faults and restore basic sequence flow.

• Understanding of the cell sequence, recovering from sequence faults and upholding the cell set-up and its sequence. If necessary, perform a kick-in or kick-out of the product to ensure quality assurance. Initiation of quality stops if required.

• Perform basic troubleshooting and component replacement using standard modular units. Escalate complex issues when needed.

• Conduct routine of visual and functional quality checks for all technologies per process standards and initiate stops when standards are not met. Maintain and monitor poka-yoke (error-proofing) systems.

• Document shift handovers, downtime events, and quality issues clearly and accurately. Communicate effectively with incoming shifts and team leaders.

• Perform visual inspections and preventive maintenance tasks (daily, weekly, monthly) such as cleaning, lubrication, and parts replacement.

• Maintain order, cleanliness, and safety within the assigned work area, following 5S and TPM principles.

• Support equipment readiness before and after shutdowns and weekend shifts. Report issues and follow standard restart procedures.

• Participate in improvement activities to support uptime and efficiency (e.g., resetting robots, optimizing minor tasks).

• Ensure spare parts and backup systems are available and operational. Run simulation checks when needed.

• Perform additional tasks and support projects as assigned.

  Knowledge and Skills 

•    Basic knowledge of industrial AC/DC electricity (24V - 480V), as well as mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems, is preferred. Ability to read and interpret respective documentation for system understanding and to resolve failures.
•  Ability to choose and use various tools for troubleshooting (hand tools, pneumatic, and electric tools)
•  Ability to read and interpret standard work instructions with high discipline to adhere to them.
•  Basic computer skills are required, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and email.
•  Basic education and/or experience with PLC/BUS systems (Siemens) is strongly preferred.
• Experience with robotics (KUKA) is strongly preferred.
•  Familiarity with spot welding, MAG welding, stud welding, laser welding, and gluing processes preferred.
• Strong process engineering 'LEAN' skill set preferred.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Capability to coordinate a working group during a downtime incident.
• Preferred knowledge in automotive systems and product quality requirements.
• Willingness to work in a 3-shift model & travel locally for training purposes
• Required overtime as needed
  

Qualifications:

• Required: High School Diploma or GED and 2 years of automotive manufacturing experience. Prior experience in automated systems or automotive body preferred. In lieu of years of experience, a relevant certification or Associates Degree can be substituted.

• Candidates with prior work experience at Mercedes-Benz Vans or within the Mercedes-Benz AG network are strongly encouraged to apply.

• Able to perform the essential functions of the job.

Mercedes-Benz Vans, LLC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that appreciates and leverages the diversity of our team. We provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation),age, national origin, religion, marital status, veteran status, physical or other disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.