Manufacturing Machine Operator I - 3rd Shift

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

3rd shift has a $3.00/hr shift differential on top of hourly pay

Job Summary and Mission

Operate multiple Stahli or Blanchard grinding machines to produce high-quality products in accordance with blueprint specifications and production standards.

Key Job Responsibilities

- 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

- 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