Manufacturing Machine Operator I - Entry-US

About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Manufacturing Machine Operator

LaVergne, TN

Sunday - Thursday, 11pm - 7am  

Job Summary and Mission
Describe the purpose of the job
Operate multiple Stahli or Blanchard grinding machines to produce high-quality products in accordance with blueprint specifications and production standards.
Key Job Responsibilities
These describe the job duties
 - Set up and operate top and bottom grinding machines, including Stahli 605 and 702 models.
 - Install, change, and dress grinding wheels as required.
 - Determine required stock removal while maintaining tolerance specifications.
 - Gauge inserts to ensure dimensional accuracy.
 - Visually inspect inserts using scopes to verify surface characteristics.
 - Operate additional equipment as needed to support production.
 - Set up machines and troubleshoot basic to moderately complex issues independently.
Key Job Accountabilities
These describe the job duties
 - Adhere strictly to all safety procedures and demonstrate a strong commitment to safe work practices.
 - Follow operating procedures and work instructions for non-standard operations.
 - Ensure all products meet specifications outlined in control plans, routings, and blueprints.
 - Maintain consistent production output to meet daily departmental goals.
 - Exhibit reliability and dependability in attendance and task execution.
 - Communicate safety concerns, quality issues, and production updates with supervisors and peers across all shifts.
Education and Experience
 - High school diploma or GED required.
 - Previous experience with grinding equipment preferred.
Work Environment
 - Controlled indoor environment with temperature regulation and dust collection systems.
 - Personal protective equipment (PPE) required: safety glasses with side shields, safety shoes, and gloves (including cut-resistant gloves when applicable).
Physical Demands 
 - Standing for approximately eight hours per shift, with two scheduled breaks.
 - Periodic walking, reaching, bending, and light lifting.
 - Must be able to lift insert trays weighing up to 33 pounds.
Problem Solving 
 - Complete assigned production orders by due date and according to operational guidelines.
 - Solve routine problems using standard operating procedures and job-specific knowledge.
 - Interpret and execute verbal and written instructions efficiently.
 - Apply acquired knowledge of insert styles and production processes to maintain output quality.

Kennametal Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer