Job Title: Entry Level Machine Operator (Lay Up & Press Machine / Winder Kitter Operator)

Job Description

The Machine Operator, also known as a Winder/Kitter, operates specialized production equipment to manufacture graphite or fiberglass unidirectional prepreg (skins) and then cuts these skins into 0/90 oriented kits used as face sheet plies for honeycomb sandwich panels. This role combines hands-on machine operation, precise kitting, and in-process quality checks in a clean manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate winding and related production equipment to produce graphite or fiberglass unidirectional prepreg (skins) according to work instructions.
• Cut prepreg skins into accurately dimensioned 0/90 oriented kits of material for use as face sheet plies in honeycomb sandwich panels.
• Follow all steps outlined on the production work order to correctly formulate each product from start to finish.
• Complete each step of the work order thoroughly and accurately, ensuring that no required actions or checks are missed.
• Perform in-process quality checks at designated steps to verify that materials and products meet specified standards.
• Use hand and power tools, as well as measuring tools, to perform production, assembly, and kitting tasks safely and precisely.
• Apply good basic math skills to measure, calculate, and verify dimensions, quantities, and material usage.
• Document production activities clearly with legible handwriting or printing on work orders and related forms.
• Balance multiple tasks and priorities to meet production schedules and maintain workflow.
• Work independently to complete assigned tasks while also collaborating effectively with team members when needed.
• Communicate clearly in English, both verbally and in writing, to understand work orders, procedures, and safety instructions.
• Follow all safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized work area within the manufacturing facility.
• Report directly to the Winder Production Supervisor regarding production status, issues, or quality concerns.

Essential Skills

• Experience in production, assembly, kitting, or manufacturing environments.
• Proficiency in machine operation, including operating winding or similar production equipment.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to work with hand and power tools safely and effectively.
• Ability to use measuring tools accurately for cutting and verifying material dimensions.
• Good basic math skills to support measuring, counting, and process calculations.
• Ability to follow detailed production work orders and process steps consistently.
• Capability to perform in-process quality checks and recognize nonconforming product.
• Ability to speak, read, and write English proficiently to understand instructions and complete documentation.
• Legible handwriting or printing for accurate completion of production records.
• Ability to balance multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced production setting.
• Demonstrated sincere desire to work and reliability in completing assigned tasks.
• 2+ years of relevant, steady work history preferred, with manufacturing experience considered a plus.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience in a clean manufacturing facility is beneficial.
• Experience working with graphite, fiberglass, or composite materials is an advantage.
• Experience on 12-hour shifts or similar extended schedules is helpful.
• Comfort working both independently and as part of a production team.
• Strong attention to detail and quality-focused mindset.

Why Work Here?

Join a clean, well-organized manufacturing environment where you can build on your mechanical and production skills while working with advanced composite materials. The schedule offers structured 12-hour shifts on either weekday or weekend rotations, supporting predictable time off and the potential for a compressed workweek. You will work within a supportive team culture that values reliability, quality, and continuous contribution to a high-precision production process.

Work Environment

This role is based in a clean manufacturing facility focused on producing composite prepreg materials for honeycomb sandwich panels. You will work with production machinery, hand and power tools, and measuring tools in a structured, process-driven environment. Shifts follow a 12-hour schedule on weekday days (Tuesday–Thursday and every other Monday, 4:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.) or weekday nights (Tuesday - Thursday and every other Monday, 4:00 p.m. - 4:00 a.m.). The work involves s