Advanced Manufacturing Operator

Innotec, headquartered in Zeeland, Michigan, is a global, highly automated manufacturing company serving automotive, recreation, lawn & turf, and industrial markets. We deliver innovative, high-quality solutions—including advanced LED lighting—while maintaining a strong commitment to performance and sustainability. Our culture is built on ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement, empowering employees to make an impact and grow their careers.

We are seeking a skilled and dependable Advanced Manufacturing Operator to join our manufacturing team. This position is intended for individuals with a proven track record operating production equipment in a manufacturing environment.

The ideal candidate will have at least three years of hands-on manufacturing experience, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work independently while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and productivity. The Advanced Manufacturing Operator is responsible for operating automated production equipment, troubleshooting equipment and process issues, performing machine adjustments, and ensuring production, quality, and safety objectives are achieved.

 Job Responsibilities

• Operate automated production equipment safely and efficiently in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
• Monitor machine performance, quality standards, and production rates throughout the shift.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve routine equipment and process issues.
• Perform machine adjustments, changeovers, and minor mechanical repairs as needed.
• Conduct product quality inspections and accurately document inspection results.
• Investigate and respond to machine faults, alarms, and downtime events.
• Maintain production targets while minimizing scrap and downtime.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Demonstrate ownership of equipment performance and team results.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence objectives.
• Train on assigned equipment and processes as required.

Required Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum three years of machine troubleshooting experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience operating automated, semi-automated, or high-volume production equipment.
• Experience performing machine adjustments, machine setups, and changeovers.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong attendance record and demonstrated reliability.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in plastics manufacturing, injection molding, or automation environments.
• Lean Manufacturing or continuous improvement experience.
• Technical degree or manufacturing-related certification.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to train on first shift before transitioning to operational needs.
• Flexibility to support a regular schedule that may include 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM hours.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-accountability production environment.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship.

Skills & Competencies 

• Strong analytical and applied problem-solving skills.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting capability.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to identify and resolve machine, equipment, and process issues.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and productivity standards.
• Hands-on approach with a willingness to work directly on the production floor.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Demonstrated reliability, accountability, and ownership mindset.