Machine Operator - Universal Pass-Thru

Position Summary The Machine Operator Universal Pass-Thru Auto Insertion is responsible for setting up, operating, monitoring, and maintaining computer-controlled auto insertion equipment used to populate printed circuit boards. This position follows manufacturing process instructions (MPIs), shop packets, bills of material (BOMs), component placement information, and equipment programs to ensure the correct components are loaded and inserted in the proper locations and orientation. The Machine Operator performs required first-piece and in-process inspections, records production activity, troubleshoots routine insertion and component-verification issues, and supports safe, efficient completion of production orders. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Machine Setup and Job Preparation Start up, initialize, and set up Universal Pass-Thru auto insertion equipment in accordance with approved manufacturing process instructions and safety requirements.Select and load the machine program that matches the printed circuit board (PCB) number, product description, and shop packet for the order being produced.Compare component IDs in the machine program to the BOM and update or bypass components as required to match the shop packet.Configure board circuits and program steps for complete or partial panels, verifying that required components and circuits are enabled before production.Verify feeder assignments, component part numbers, and polarity, including physical checks of non-permanent feeders and radial-machine feeders as required.Load and remove components from VCD and radial feeders, ensuring components are properly aligned, secured, and oriented for insertion.Verify panel orientation against the machine board graphic and load panels correctly onto the conveyor. Production Operation Set up and operate multiple computer-controlled insertion machines used to populate printed circuit boards, including VCD and radial insertion equipment.Run the initial panel for the production order and complete the required First Piece Inspection (FPI) before entering the full production quantity.Monitor machine operation and panel flow throughout the run, replenishing components and correcting routine process errors as needed to complete the order.Repeat required program verification and setup steps on subsequent machines in the process line when the product requires multiple insertion operations.Perform equipment shutdown in accordance with approved procedures at the end of production or shift as required. Quality and Inspection Perform the required First Piece Inspection after all components for the applicable operation have been inserted and before full production proceeds.Visually inspect panels throughout production and as they complete for proper assembly, component placement, polarity, and other visible defects or issues.Verify that the correct components are being used by comparing machine information, BOM requirements, part numbers, feeder locations, and component polarity.Stop, correct, and report quality or process issues when product, component, program, or machine conditions do not meet requirements. Troubleshooting and Component Handling Respond to miss-insert conditions by identifying the affected component and feeder, locating or replacing the component, and completing the required repair sequence.Respond to component verifier failures by confirming the correct part and polarity, retesting or replacing components as required, and escalating unresolved failures to the supervisor.Make routine program or setup adjustments when a panel does not run properly and determine when assistance from a Maintenance Technician is required.Handle electronic components carefully during removal, loading, testing, and manual insertion to prevent damage and maintain correct orientation and polarity. Documentation and Reporting Complete required job reporting documentation and enter production information into the company Auto Insertion data acquisition or information system.Maintain accurate shop packet and production records and complete required documentation for scrap, component changes, or other production issues as applicable. Maintenance and Safety Perform daily operator maintenance, including wiping down equipment, sweeping the work area and beneath machines, and removing scrap paper, tape, leads, and other production debris.Follow applicable preventive maintenance requirements and promptly communicate machine conditions requiring maintenance support.Follow all company safety requirements and wear required PPE, including safety glasses when performing this operation.Operate equipment with safety covers, guards, and interlocks in the required position and restore all safety devices after approved setup or maintenance adjustments. General Responsibilities Read, interpret, and follow MPIs, shop packets, BOMs, component placement drawings, posted visual aids, equipment instructions, and other controlled production documentation.Maintain an organized work area and return production materials, components, feeders, and tools to designated locations when work is complete.Work effectively with Production, Quality, Maintenance, and supervisory personnel to resolve issues and support production schedules.Cross-train on auto insertion equipment and related processes to support departmental needs.Perform other duties as assigned. Skills English literacy sufficient to read, interpret, and comply with MPIs, shop packets, BOMs, technical drawings, equipment screens, and written work instructions.Strong alpha-numeric recognition and attention to detail for component IDs, part numbers, feeder locations, PCB numbers, programs, and product codes.Basic computer and data entry skills to operate production equipment and report production activity.Basic math skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, common fractions, and decimals.Ability to interpret technical drawings, illustrations, machine graphics, component placement information, and polarity requirements.Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability sufficient to perform routine adjustments, minor operator maintenance, and first-level troubleshooting.Familiarity with electronic component identification and color coding.Ability to organize work, manage multiple machines and priorities, communicate effectively, and work independently or as part of a team. Physical Requirements Regularly stand and walk throughout the workday while attending to multiple pieces of production equipment.Frequently bend, stoop, squat or crouch, reach, push, pull, climb, twist or turn, and use manual and digital dexterity to load components, operate controls, and handle production materials.Frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds.Use visual acuity and color differentiation to read computer screens and instructions, identify components and machine signals, verify part numbers and polarity, and inspect printed circuit boards.Hear alarms, announcements, and changes in machine operation and communicate with other manufacturing associates in a production environment.Maintain mental alertness and concentration while sequencing work, selecting correct programs, and monitoring multiple machines.Work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, dust, and chemical fumes mitigated by required PPE, ventilation, and other controls. Minimum Qualifications Education High School Diploma or GED required. Experience Three (3) or more years of experience operating production equipment in a high-volume manufacturing environment.