Smart Manufacturing Associate (Nights-3rd Shift)

Why this Role is Different

This is not a traditional machine operator job. Our new Shelby Township injection molding facility is being built from the ground up as a smart factory, where people work side by side with collaborative robots (cobots), autonomous forklifts and mobile robots, connected molding machines, and real-time production data. Machines handle the repetitive work. You handle the thinking: keeping the system running, spotting problems before they become scrap, and helping us make the process better every week.

If you're the kind of person who takes things apart to see how they work, tinkers with tech in your free time, or always finds a faster way to do a task, this is your entry point into the future of manufacturing. No robotics degree required. We'll train you. We're hiring for curiosity, ownership, and the drive to learn.

What You'll Do

Run and Monitor an Automated Production Cell

• Operate injection molding cells that include molding machines, cobots, and automated material handling, following standard work and safety procedures.
• Monitor machine and cell status through HMI touchscreens, dashboards, and production software; respond to alarms, faults, and alerts.
• Perform first-level troubleshooting, such as clearing faults, restarting cobot programs, and resetting stations, and escalate issues with clear, specific information.
• Coordinate with autonomous forklifts and mobile robots for material delivery and finished-goods movement, and help keep robot traffic paths safe and clear.

Own Quality at the Source

• Inspect molded parts for defects such as flash, short shots, sink, warpage, cracks, and discoloration.
• Measure parts with calipers, gauges, and digital inspection tools; log results in our digital quality system.
• Contain non-conforming product and help identify the root cause rather than just sorting parts.

Improve the Process

• Spot recurring problems, bottlenecks, or wasted motion and bring ideas forward; we act on good ones quickly.
• Participate in continuous improvement, 5S, and problem-solving activities alongside engineers and technicians.
• Give feedback on automation, software tools, and work instructions to help shape how our factory runs.

Keep the Cell Running Smoothly

• Handle light assembly, part packaging, counting, and labeling where automation hasn't yet taken over.
• Keep work areas clean, organized, and safe for both people and robots; follow all lockout/tagout, robot safety zone, and PPE requirements.
• Record production, downtime, and quality data accurately in digital systems (tablets, scanners, MES).
• Communicate clearly with your shift team, leads, and engineers during handoffs and when issues arise.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Operation & Production

• Operate injection molding machines under supervision following established procedures.
• Monitor production to ensure consistent production output.
• Notify supervisors of machine issues, quality concerns, or material shortages.

Quality Control

• Perform visual inspections of molded parts to identify defects such as flash, cracks, warpage, or discoloration.
• Separate non-conforming parts and follow quality control guidelines.
• Measure parts using standard measurements tools such as calipers or custom gauges.

Light Assembly & Packaging

• Perform light assembly work of molded components as required.
• Package finished parts accurately, including counting, labeling, and preparing for storage or shipment.

Housekeeping & Safety

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Perform routine housekeeping duties throughout the shift.
• Follow all safety procedures and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Documentation & Communication

• Complete basic production and inspection documentation.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members regarding production activities.

Who You Are

• Curious about technology and how things work, whether that's robots, computers, cars, 3D printers, or gaming PCs.
• A self-starter who takes ownership: you notice problems, look for answers, and follow through without waiting to be told.
• Comfortable using touchscreens, tablets, apps, and basic software, and quick to pick up new systems.
• Detail-oriented, with pride in getting things right the first time.
• Coachable and eager to grow; you see feedback and new skills as opportunities.
• A team player who communicates clearly and stays calm when things go sideways.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• Basic computer literacy and comfort with digital tools.
• Ability to read and follow written and visual work instructions.
• Reliable attendance and willingness to work assigned shifts.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds.

Nice to Have (Not Required)

• Experience in manufacturing, production, warehouse, or another hands-on technical environment.
• Exposure to robotics, automation, PLCs, CNC, 3D printing, or injection molding through work, school, or personal projects.
• Coursework or certification in advanced manufacturing, mechatronics, robotics, or a related field (e.g., community college, trade school, FANUC/Universal Robots training, FIRST Robotics).
• Mechanical aptitude, such as working on cars, bikes, electronics, or equipment.

• Don't check every box?
• Apply anyway.
• We care more about how you think and learn than about your résumé.

What We Offer

• Pay Range: $25 - $27 per hour, based on experience and skills
• 100% employer-paid health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Optional Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid, hands-on training in robotics, automation, and injection molding, with clear opportunities for advancement