Production Associate Machine Operator Jobs in Virginia

Job Purpose & Description:

The Machine Operator is an independent operator within the production department. A machine operatorsets up, runs, and maintains assigned machines.Key duties include operating machinery, performing quality control, troubleshooting mechanical issues, loading materials, and following safety procedures.The role requires mechanical aptitude, the ability to read technical documents and workorders, and physical stamina for a production environment. They demonstrate strong communication and documentation skills, maintain focus under minimal supervision, and contribute to other departments when needed. This will be for a rotating night shift from 6:45pm-7am.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate assigned production machinery in a safe, efficient, and quality-focused manner in accordance with established procedures and safety standards.

• Set up machines, load materials, monitor operations, and make routine adjustments to ensure consistent product quality and optimal machine performance.

• Perform in-process inspections and quality checks to verify products meet specifications; promptly identify and report defects or deviations.

• Read, interpret, and follow work orders, technical documents, production schedules, and standard operating procedures.

• Troubleshoot routine equipment issues and process variations; escalate mechanical or operational problems beyond normal scope to appropriate personnel.

• Safely use power tools, hand tools, and manufacturing equipment in compliance with training and safety requirements.

• Maintain accurate production, quality, and downtime documentation to support reporting and continuous improvement efforts.

• Adhere to production timelines and schedules while managing multiple tasks and priorities effectively.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in alignment with 5S and housekeeping standards.

• Demonstrate flexibility and composure during peak production periods or changing priorities.

• Collaborate effectively with team members, supervisors, and other departments to support overall production goals.

• Comply with all company policies, safety rules, and regulatory requirements at all times.

• Support cross-functional activities and perform additional duties as assigned based on operational needs.

Job Requirements

Education & Certificates:

• High school diploma or equivalent, required\

Technical Skills & Experience:

• Basic math skills and mechanical aptitude, required

Competencies

• Safety & Compliance Awareness
  Demonstrates a strong commitment to workplace safety by consistently following safety procedures, regulations, and best practices while operating machinery and tools.

• Mechanical Aptitude
  Exhibits a solid understanding of machine operations, basic mechanics, and equipment functionality, enabling effective setup, operation, and initial troubleshooting.

• Quality Focus
  Maintains high standards for product quality through attention to detail, routine inspections, and adherence to specifications and quality control requirements.

• Problem Solving & Troubleshooting
  Identifies operational issues and resolves routine problems independently; recognizes when to escalate non-standard or complex issues to maintenance or supervisory staff.

• Teamwork & Collaboration
  Works cooperatively within the production team and supports other departments as needed to achieve operational goals.

Key Relationships

This position has frequent interaction with peers in all departments, members of leadership, and HSE.

Working Conditions

• Employee may be exposed to a considerable level of hazards in the work environment, such as chemicals, commercial products, exposure to potential toxins, moving machinery, repetitive motion, excessive noise, powered industrial vehicle fork/reach/ bucket lift/other.

• Employees are consistently exposed to loud sounds and distracting noise levels.

• Employee may be required to perform a considerable level of specific tasks such as lifting up to 70 lbs.

• Employee will be required to wear protective eyewear, safety vest, appropriate gloves, hearing protection, safety shoes, hard hate, and/or other.

Pay & Benefits:

• Starting hourly rate $21.71/hour

• Health, dental and vision benefits

• 401k retirement

• Vacation/PTO

• Paid holidays