Production Associate Machine Operator Jobs in Patterson, CA

The Slitter Operator is responsible for the safe and timely production of high-quality metal products (e.g., coils, sheets, or blanks) using specialized processing equipment. This role requires adherence to strict safety, quality, and material specifications within a high-volume manufacturing environment. 

• Obtains and reviews detailed work orders or cut sheets from the supervisor.
• Acquires the specified metal stock (e.g., master coil, steel, aluminum) and other materials listed in the Bill of Materials (BOM).
• Performs general setup and tooling of the specified equipment (e.g., slitter, shear, leveling line) to meet the product specifications.
• Loading of master/jumbo metal coil onto the unwind or feed table, ensuring proper alignment.
• Runs the job in accordance with established cutting, slitting, or processing standards and tolerances.

• Responsible for the timely production of quality metal parts, slit coils, or sheets in accordance with established standards and customer requirements.
• Inspects finished product for defects such as burrs, camber, gauge issues, or surface blemishes, and properly segregates scrap metal or rejected material.
• Removes required gauge and width/length quality samples for submission to the Quality Assurance (QA) department.
• Ensures that all aspects of the operation are performed in accordance with ISO Procedures and industry standards for metal processing.

• Prior to start-up, performs required pre-operation safety checks and inspection on the equipment (e.g., checking blades, hydraulic levels, emergency stops).
• Responsible for the safe operation of heavy metal processing equipment.
• Alerts the shift supervisor immediately to any quality issue, machine malfunction, or tooling damage.
• Performs minor maintenance duties, tooling changes, and repairs as required.
• Responsible for cell housekeeping, ensuring the work area is free of debris, scrap, and oil/grease hazards.

• Completes all necessary adjustments and fine tunes equipment settings (e.g., tension, clearance, cutting parameters) to achieve maximum efficiency and quality of product.
• Performs booking and line clearance of all jobs, ensuring accurate material usage reporting in the system.
• Labels all finished coils, bundles, or crates per established standards for tracking and inventory.
• Participates in continuous improvement programs (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to enhance metal manufacturing processes.
• Displays attributes in line with the company's Guiding Principles and promotes teamwork.

Education & Experience

• High School diploma or GED.
• Prior experience in operating a metal slitter, shear, press brake, or other heavy metal processing equipment is strongly preferred.
• Working knowledge of ERP Systems for inventory and work order management.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work within tight dimensional tolerances.
• Demonstrate initiative to learn and accept additional responsibility, particularly in complex machine setups and troubleshooting.
• Proven ability to work as a team within a diverse workforce in a metal manufacturing or fabrication environment.
• Knowledge of manufacturing safety standards and guidelines, specifically in handling heavy metal coils, sharp edges, and pinch points.
• Ability to use and understand basic math, including fractions and decimals, for measuring metal dimensions and tolerances.
• Fluent in English both verbal and written.
• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus.

 Work Environment:
This position is performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to loud noise, heavy machinery, and moving equipment. Work may occur near sharp metal materials, coil-handling equipment, and in non-climate-controlled areas with varying temperatures. Employees may be exposed to dust, fumes, oils, and lubricants used in metal processing. Proper PPE must be worn at all times, and all safety procedures must be followed.
Physical Demands:

The role requires the ability to perform various physical tasks essential to working in a manufacturing environment. These include:

• Regularly lifting and carrying materials up to 20 lbs, and occasionally up to 40 lbs, with or without assistance.
• Frequent walking, standing, bending, kneeling, reaching, and twisting throughout the shift.
• Sufficient manual dexterity to operate tools, equipment, controls, and measuring devices.
• Ability to work in elevated or confined spaces when performing set-ups or adjustments.
• Tolerance for varying temperatures, including heat, cold, and humidity, depending on production conditions.
• Adherence to all company safety procedures, including use of proper lifting techniques and following required protocols when working around tools, machinery, and heavy materials.

Compensation:

This position is non-exempt and complies with California's wage and hour laws. Compensation for this role ranges from $22 to $25 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, Vision)
• Life Insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays

 Equal Opportunity Employer:

Bay Cities Metal Products is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees and applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by California or federal law.

At-Will Employment Disclaimer:

Employment with Bay Cities Metal Products is at-will, meaning either the employee or the company may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with California law.