Machine Operator

Job Title: Machine Operator

Job Description

The Machine Operator sets up, operates, and adjusts slitting machinery to cut materials to precise width and quality standards in a fast-paced production environment. This role combines hands-on mechanical work, quality control, and basic troubleshooting to keep production running efficiently and safely. The position requires strong attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work effectively as part of a small team on rotating 12-hour shifts.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and adjust slitting machines to cut material to exact width and quality specifications.
• Monitor machine performance and production processes to ensure consistent output and minimize downtime.
• Check finished product dimensions, including slit width, and verify that products meet quality standards.
• Identify product defects and collaborate with quality assurance resources as needed to resolve issues.
• Load raw materials into the machine according to work orders and production requirements.
• Package, label, and prepare finished goods according to work orders and company standards.
• Follow all company safety rules and procedures and consistently wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and maintain a clean, organized work area using 5S principles.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks such as knife sharpening or replacement and basic shaft maintenance.
• Use hand tools and power tools as needed to perform adjustments, minor repairs, and maintenance tasks.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor machine issues to reduce downtime and maintain production flow.
• Accurately complete production records, time logs, and quality reports in a timely manner.
• Work collaboratively within a team of approximately three people, communicating clearly to coordinate tasks and resolve issues.
• Follow production schedules and instructions for slitting, general production, and assembly-related tasks.
• Assist with general production activities, including material handling and basic assembly as needed.

Essential Skills

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude, such as experience with automotive work, building or fixing equipment, or similar hands-on mechanical activities.
• Ability to set up, operate, and make precise adjustments to production or slitting machinery.
• Capability to adjust machines correctly before loading material to ensure accurate cutting and quality results.
• Strong attention to detail, especially in measuring, inspecting slit widths, and performing quality checks.
• Comfort working on your feet for 12-hour shifts, including standing, walking, and moving around the production floor.
• Ability to lift, push, reach, bend, and perform repetitive tasks safely throughout the shift.
• Effective communication skills to work productively within a small team environment.
• Basic troubleshooting skills to identify and resolve minor mechanical and process issues.
• Experience or comfort using hand tools and power tools in a production or mechanical setting.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience operating slitter or slitting machines in a production environment.
• in general production, machine operation, roll forming, or assembly.
• Experience in an automotive program, technical school, or similar mechanically focused training.
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and 5S or similar workplace organization methods.
• Comfort working in a dry-end or similar industrial manufacturing process.
• A strong interest in mechanical systems, often described as being a "gearhead" or mechanically inclined.
• Prior experience in industrial or manufacturing environments where cleanliness and temperature can vary.

Why Work Here?

Employees benefit from a comprehensive benefits package that includes 401(k) retirement options and medical, dental, and vision coverage. The company supports professional growth and offers clear potential to advance into lead roles for individuals who demonstrate strong performance, reliability, and initiative. Team members work in a collaborative environment where mechanical skills are valued and developed over time.

Work Environment

This role is based in an industrial manufacturing environment with active production lines and slitting equipment. The facility can be dirty at times and may become hot during the summer and cold during colder seasons, so candidates should be comfortable working in variable conditions. The position follows a rotating schedule of 12-hour shifts from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a two-week rotation: in Week 1, you work three 12-hour shifts and are paid for 36 hours; in Week 2, you work four 12-hour shifts and are paid for 48 hours, providing every other weekend off. The work involves standing for long periods, frequent movement around machinery, and regular use of hand tools and power tools. You will work closely with a small team, typically around three people, in a setting that emphasizes safety, proper use of PPE, and adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of South Windsor, CT.

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $23.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in South Windsor,CT.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 30, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.