Entry Level Machine Operator Jobs in Gastonia, NC

Machine Operator – Entry Level (Training Provided)

Textum OPCO, LLC is hiring Machine Operators for its textile manufacturing operation.

Location: Belmont, NC

Schedule: Full-time – 1st Shift available

We are looking for detail-oriented, dependable individuals to join our team as a Machine Operator. This is a hands-on production role where you’ll learn a unique craft, contribute to high-quality products, and work in a supportive, safety-focused environment. No weaving experience is required — we provide full training.

At Textum we thrive on developing innovative fabric and multi-dimensional preform solutions for our customers which help to advance their programs and push their technologies to the next level. We have unique expertise in developing textile solutions for extreme environments that we are leveraging for specialty composite production. The industries that we serve include aerospace, space, defense, energy, and infrastructure. Whether it’s thermal protection systems for space vehicles, preforms for CMC components, or preforms and fabrics for carbon-carbon processing, we have the experience and expertise to help ensure our customer’s success both as a reinforcement provider and through delivery of finished parts.

• Textum OPCO, LLC is a drug-free work environment.
• Textum OPCO, LLC is an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran or marital status, or based on any individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

Details of Responsibilities:

• Maintain a clean and organized work area to support safety and efficiency
• Follow direction from the Lead and collaborate with team members
• Produce woven products that meet company standards for quality, safety, and output
• Complete tasks based on verbal and written instructions
• Set up your workstation according to product and style specifications
• Inspect products during each cycle and accurately document findings
• Work within established standard operating procedures (WI’s) and Job Safety Analyses (JSA’s)
• Communicate with the Lead and Engineering team when questions or issues arise
• Report product discrepancies, equipment concerns, or injuries promptly
• Keep tools and equipment in designated areas and maintain a safe workspace
• Meet assigned production goals and performance expectations

Education & Skills:

• High school diploma or GED, or equivalent experience
• Ability to read and understand basic instructions, memos, and simple correspondence in English
• Ability to write simple  correspondence
• Comfortable  communicating one-on-one with team members
• Basic math skills, including working with fractions, decimals, rates, ratios, and percentages
• Ability to read a tape measure or ruler
• Ability to follow written, verbal, or diagram-based instructions
• Good manual dexterity and physical coordination
• Strong time-management, organization, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work effectively with others in a team environment

Physical Demands:

(Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.)

• Ability to bend, lift, stoop, push, and pull up to 50 lbs regularly
• Ability to sit and stand as needed throughout the shift
• Use of hands for handling materials and performing fine motor tasks
• Ability to talk and hear in a production environment
• Vision requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus
• Must be able to wear required PPE in designated areas
• Must pass a drug screen

Work Environment:

(Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.)

• Generally quiet environment, with higher noise levels when specific tools are in use
• Hearing protection required in designated areas
• Fast-paced production setting with a focus on safety and quality

Who Thrives in This Role:

• Individuals who enjoy hands-on, craft-based work
• People with strong attention to detail
• Fast learners who follow instructions well
• Reliable team players with good communication skills
• Those who take pride in producing quality work