Entry Level Manufacturing Jobs in Springfield, VT

Role Summary

Grinder I is an entry-level precision manufacturing position responsible for supporting grinding and finishing operations while maintaining quality, safety, and productivity standards. This role operates a variety of grinding, cutting, cleaning, and finishing equipment while performing basic measurements, blueprint interpretation, material preparation, and preventative maintenance activities. The Grinder I works closely with peers, engineers, and leadership to ensure products meet customer and quality requirements.

What you'll be doing:

• Set up and operate small surface grinding equipment.
• Change and balance grinding wheels.
• Identify grinding wheel and dresser issues.
• Adjust overhead dressers and perform side dressing operations.
• Perform operator-level maintenance on grinding equipment.
• Produce parts that meet dimensional and surface finish requirements.
• Set up and operate bead blasting equipment to achieve specified surface finish requirements.
• Set up and operate DA sanders to meet work order and finish specifications.
• Prepare and finish components according to engineering and manufacturing requirements.
• Set up and operate horizontal band saws to cut materials to specified dimensions.
• Set up and operate vertical band saws to cut materials to specified dimensions.
• Perform operator-level maintenance and inspections on cutting equipment.
• Load, unload, and operate stress relief ovens.
• Load, unload, and operate ultrasonic cleaning systems.
• Maintain equipment cleanliness and perform routine operator maintenance.
• Utilize Level I metrology equipment including: Calipers, dial indicators, depth gauges, slide tracing equipment, AMP 950 systems, gage heads, strip chart recorders, 
• Perform basic dimensional inspections and accurately document results.
• Read, understand, and follow engineering drawings and work instructions.
• Interpret basic Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) requirements.
• Verify work conforms to blueprint specifications.
• Accurately clock in and out of labor tickets using the Visual ERP system.
• Record labor and production information as required.
• Maintain accurate production documentation.

The Grinder I is responsible for complying with all company Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) policies and procedures.

• Proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Hazard Communication (HAZCOM) awareness and compliance.
• Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) awareness and application.
• Basic electrical hazard recognition and reporting.
• Safe ladder use and daily ladder inspections.
• Safe operation and inspection of forklifts.
• Understanding forklift load capacities and stability principles.
• Safe operation and inspection of hoists and cranes.
• Identification of safe lifting points and appropriate lifting devices.
• Ability to locate and print Safety Data Sheets (SDS) as required.
• Recognition and reporting of hazardous materials and workplace hazards.

This is what you'll need to be successful in this role

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Technical manufacturing education or vocational training is preferred.
• Manufacturing, machining, grinding, assembly, or related experience preferred.
• Entry-level candidates with demonstrated mechanical aptitude will be considered.
• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and shop practices.
• Ability to read and follow work instructions and engineering drawings.
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Ability to safely operate manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to learn grinding, finishing, and inspection processes.
• Basic computer skills and ability to use production tracking systems.
• Frequently stand, walk, bend, reach, and lift during the workday. 
• Ability to lift and move materials in accordance with company safety guidelines. 
• Ability to safely operate manufacturing equipment and material handling devices. 
• Ability to wear required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and safety shoes.

Working Conditions

• Manufacturing and production environment.
• Exposure to, moving machinery, and noise levels typical of a manufacturing facility.
• Required use of personal protective equipment in designated production areas.