Model Shop Operator- L3

The Model Shop Operator L3 is responsible for the set-up and operation of all the equipment required to create custom assemblies for architectural applications. They are responsible for achieving required quality and throughput standards. They are required to monitor production and adjust the equipment and/or processes as environmental and material changes take place. They are required to work in conjunction with a team and clearly communicate direction and expectations. A Level 3 operator is expected to assist in training of entry-level operators on various processes, tools, and pieces of equipment.  

 Machine Operation 

• Set up, operate, and maintain equipment according to company and product specifications. 
• Utilize power hand tools to cut, assemble, glue, drill, sand architectural products and custom wood assemblies 
• Read and interpret routing print documentation, and JBA’s to ensure quality and processing standards are met. 
• Use table saws, chop saws, drill presses, edge banders, hand tools, and other miscellaneous equipment to manufacture custom wood work. 
• Use and read calipers, micrometers, tape measure, and other gauges without error to maintain product specifications. 
• Precisely assemble wood products to print. 
• Diagnose root cause of quality concerns and implement corrective action to equipment in real time. 
• Utilize company MES to access and record transactional information. 
• Perform basic housekeeping responsibilities, as well as basic preventative maintenance and inspections on the equipment and work area. 

Quality Assurance 

• Perform incoming material inspection for non-conformances prior to use. 
• Review information on product requirements prior to operation and communicate expectations to team members. 
• Communicate issues, concerns, and alternative plans in a professional manner with service-minded attitude. 
• Perform in-process inspections for dimensional and aesthetic non conformances. Record inspection results on quality run charts. 
• Follow Job Breakdown Analysis (JBA) and any other quality guidelines to ensure process and product quality. 

Material Handling 

• Prepare and stage raw materials. Includes recording material transactions in MES. 
• Utilize manual and powered pallet jacks to move materials. 
• Clean finished product prior to shipment. 
• Package, label, and stage finished goods for the next process or shipment according to company or customer standards 
• Create custom crates for finished goods. 
• Minimize scrap and handle waste materials properly, including entering scrap into MES. 

Safety & Maintenance 

• Follow all safety protocols, including lockout/tagout and PPE use. 
• Demonstrate safe use of pneumatic nail guns. 
• Keep work area clean and organized (5S standards). 
• Assist with basic maintenance and report equipment issues promptly. 
• Participate in safety training and continuous improvement programs. 
• May perform other duties as assigned. 

Education, Skills & Experience 

• High school diploma or GED required. 
• 3+ years of machine operation experience in a manufacturing setting preferred. 
• Custom woodworking experience preferred. 
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to use basic hand tools. 
• Mastery of cabinet making techniques and the associated hand tools. 
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality. 
• Ability to read and follow written instructions, work orders, and production schedules. 
• Basic math and measurement skills. 
• Cooperative attitude and ability to work with a team  
• Ability to troubleshoot and use their knowledge and creative capability towards problem solving. 
• Ability to uphold company Core Values of Integrity, Solutions, Service and Quality as part of the NASL Team. 

Work Environment 

• Industrial manufacturing floor with moderate to high noise and heat levels 
• May require working in shifts, overtime, or weekends as production demands 
• Wood and other material dust. 
• Adhesive residue and odor is present. 

Work Hours Position is full-time, average of 30 - 40 hours per week.? Occasional overtime may be required. This position may be scheduled to work during first or second shift. Occasional overtime may be required.  

Education

• High school diploma or GED required. 

Experience

• 3+ years of machine operation experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Custom woodworking experience preferred.
• Experience with cabinet-making techniques and woodworking tools preferred. 

Technical Skills

• Ability to set up, operate, and maintain manufacturing equipment.
• Proficiency with hand and power tools, including saws, drill presses, edge banders, and pneumatic nail guns.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, routing documents, work orders, and Job Breakdown Analyses (JBAs).
• Ability to use precision measuring instruments such as calipers, micrometers, gauges, and tape measures.
• Basic maintenance and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience using a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) or similar production software preferred. 

Knowledge & Abilities

• Strong mechanical aptitude.
• Advanced woodworking and cabinet-making skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment and production issues.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Effective communication skills.
• Commitment to company values of Integrity, Solutions, Service, and Quality. 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to frequently stand, bend, reach, grip, and handle materials.
• Ability to occasionally kneel, squat, push, pull, and reach overhead.
• Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work while wearing required PPE. 

Work Environment

• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with moderate to high noise levels.
• Exposure to wood dust, adhesives, and manufacturing materials.
• Ability to work first or second shift, overtime, and occasional weekends as production demands require.