Position Summary
The Cylindrical Roll Threader Operator sets up, operates, and owns day-to-day production on Portland Bolt's new cylindrical die roll threading machine (PMC PM-75VS-L), producing rolled threads on rod and bolt stock in the 1-1/2" to 2" diameter range. This is a hands-on, skilled machine role for an operator who takes pride in a precise setup, verifies their own quality, and keeps production moving. This position is central to bringing a new piece of capital equipment online — the successful operator will be trained by the machine's OEM specialist during commissioning and will become the in-house expert on cylindrical threading.
Shift: This position will work on our swing shift Mon-Fri, 2:30pm - 11:00pm. It comes with a $2 shift differential while working these hours.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
1. Machine Setup & Operation
- Set up, adjust, and operate the cylindrical die roll threader independently, including die installation, removal, and alignment across both spindles
- Select and set spindle inclination (0–10°) for thru-feed and plunge-feed threading modes based on the job
- Select spindle speed and feed parameters by diameter and material grade using the variable-speed inverter drive (0–90 RPM)
- Verify die synchronization between spindles to prevent lead error and surface damage on the workpiece
- Perform changeovers between part sizes and thread pitches with minimal supervision
- Run standard, non-standard, and specialty parts to print and to specification
2. Quality & Process Control
- Inspect threads using GO/NO-GO gauges and hand measurement tools; confirm first articles before running production
- Troubleshoot quality and setup issues — thread form, lead, surface finish — and make corrections independently
- Track die life and wear indicators; flag dies for replacement before they produce out-of-spec threads
- Record production, quality, and downtime data in process control and production logs (supports OEE tracking)
- Follow and help refine standard operating procedures and setup sheets for the machine
3. Maintenance & General Support
- Perform daily and weekly preventive maintenance checks (coolant level and concentration, lubrication, guard inspection) per the PM schedule
- Maintain correct coolant concentration; record daily refractometer readings and top-offs
- Operate overhead cranes and forklifts to move material and product safely
- Inspect equipment and product for safety and integrity; report abnormal conditions
- Follow lockout/tagout (LOTO) and all machine safety procedures without exception
- Maintain a clean, organized work cell and shipping floor; support 5S and continuous improvement activities
- Perform other tasks as assigned
Physical Requirements & Work Environment
- Manufacturing floor role; on your feet for extended periods
- Regularly stand and walk; frequently use hands and fingers to handle, feel, and adjust; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; occasionally stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
- Ability to lift up to 75 lbs
- Vision requirements: close, distance, peripheral, and depth perception, plus the ability to adjust focus
- Exposure to noise, non-weather heat, and occasional wet or humid conditions; coolant mist in the machine area
- Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as designated by area
Qualifications
Required
- High school diploma or GED
- 2+ years of roll threading or comparable machine setup/operation experience, working independently the majority of the time
- Strong mechanical aptitude — understands how the machine works, not just how to run it
- Comfortable with units of measurement, reading prints, and using precision measurement tools
- Ability to troubleshoot quality issues and make independent corrections
- Detail-oriented, safety-first, and able to manage shifting priorities in a fast-paced production environment
- Able to work both independently and as part of a team
Preferred
- Experience with cylindrical die roll threading (this machine's process) — strongly preferred, but not required; OEM training is provided
- Experience with both vertical and horizontal machine setups
- Familiarity with thread specifications, gauging, and thread form standards
- Exposure to preventive maintenance programs, SOPs, or controlled documents
- Familiarity with ERP systems (Acumatica or similar) for production and data entry
- Background in metal fabrication or fastener manufacturing