Automatic Press Trainee
Listed on 2026-02-04
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Manufacturing / Production
Manufacturing Production
Overview
1st shift, M-Th, 6:30am-4:30pm. Are you looking for a challenging yet rewarding job that allows you to utilize your skills to their fullest potential? Do you want to join a team of hardworking, enthusiastic and creative people and enjoy working with a company that recognizes and embraces diversity? Do you take pride working with a company that is committed to being a great corporate citizen and playing a role in producing the highest quality products and services?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then Pridgeon and Clay is the place for you.
Founded in 1948 by John Pridgeon and Donald Clay, we are one of the largest independent, value-added manufacturers and suppliers of automotive stamped and fine-blanked components in the United States.
ObjectiveLearn the duties of an Automatic Press Operator and assist with various production and documentation tasks, including enhancing production through continuous improvement and lean initiatives, and perform 5S duties in an exemplary manner according to the company quality policies.
Minimum Requirements / Qualifications- High School Diploma or GED
- Six months of experience working in a manufacturing setting
- Ability to prove mechanical inclination, computer literacy and general math knowledge through aptitude testing
- Willingness to attend off-site, job-related training classes
- Ability to multi-task and work in a fast paced environment
- Excellent work record (e.g. limited employee warnings), including attendance
- Willingness to train on and work on any shift
- Ability to lift 50 pounds
- Operators are responsible for owning a set of approved calipers and micrometers
- Learn to stage, set, and troubleshoot dies for automatic presses (using press controls and sensors).
- Load coils, blank feed, operate departmental straighteners and presses to process parts.
- Prepare, load, and adjust feeders, coil reels and straighteners. Verify proper raw material/stock against router and check.
- Read, understand, and complete production paperwork and tags, including scrap, steel, move, production and bar code. Use routing system to start jobs, print labels, load components/materials, and close out jobs.
- Set up presses following instructions and documentation.
- Operate automatic presses following general operating instructions and control plan.
- Pack and stack parts according to internal and external customer specifications.
- Complete training and receive license to operate hi-los and cranes.
- Check die status and pre-stage upcoming jobs using Kanban and priority list.
- Use Vulcan system to perform daily functions.
- Use End of Run tags as required.
- Adjust stock alignment and transfer fingers as applicable.
- Attend APO trainee classes and complete all necessary tests and audits to complete program.
- Use snap calipers, micrometers, height gauges, protractors, attribute gates, variable gauges, taper gauges, and/or ring gauges to ensure quality per the Control Plan.
- Understand and follow sort instructions for quality alerts.
- Use drop gage and fixtures in accordance with policy and ensure calibration.
- Operate the Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) and interpret reports to verify part quality.
- Follow inspection sheets and understand variables and attributes on each sheet.
- Document procedures per the control plan, including visual inspections, first-piece and in-process inspections, and SPC charting; report discrepancies to the Supervisor.
- Follow first-off piece, restart piece, and last piece inspection instructions to ensure part setup and quality.
- Follow all ISO/TS policies and procedures.
- Consistently follow safety procedures during all phases of work.
- Locate and properly use safety blocks as needed.
- Use designated personal protective equipment for the work environment.
- Identify potential safety issues and take appropriate action.
- Place coils and parts in proper storage areas; dispose of unusable skids and waste from the press area.
- Participate in lean initiatives and continuous improvement events, applying lean concepts to work methods and eliminating waste.
- Anticipate problems and work to prevent them.
- Support development and implementation of corrective actions.
- Monitor press strokes per minute and drive for continuous improvement.
- Organize and maintain a 5S workplace, including cleaning and control of slugs.
- Demonstrate good communication and provide troubleshooting guidance to team members and others as needed.
- Provide accurate, timely feedback to co-workers, Die Techs, Maintenance, and management to enhance teamwork.
- Effectively communicate with colleagues and management; provide timely feedback.
- Maintain good attendance and organize the personal work area efficiently.
- Adhere to company policies and procedures, including ISO, IATF 16949, and safety regulations.
- Accept instructions positively and treat all co-workers with dignity and respect.
- Model professionalism and…
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