Manufacturing Operator - Sewing

As a Manufacturing Operator - Sewing, you will produce fabric pouches and bags used to organize, carry, and store hand tools. This role spans the entire scope of making these products, from measuring and cutting materials to final sewn assembly. You must be able to work consistently, accurately, and quickly while following established specifications and meeting quality standards. ### Responsibilities - **•** Set up the work area; cut the fabric, webbing, and hook-and-loop pieces; and assemble and sew the finished goods - **•** Inspect throughout the process to verify that all finished goods meet specifications and are free of defects - **•** Adjust machine settings, fixtures, and tooling to optimize output and performance - **•** Keep the work area neat and orderly - **•** Monitor and address the machine’s day-to-day performance and partner with our Manufacturing Maintenance Specialist to handle maintenance or issues - **•** Ensure lubrication systems are properly filled and functioning, consumable materials are refilled, and simple wear parts are purchased and inventoried for immediate use - **•** Work with our Product Development department to make prototypes for new products ### Indicators of a good match for this role - **•** You are aligned with Tekton’s philosophy, ways of thinking, and work style - **•** You are bold and proactive, taking action on projects both within your specialization and in areas adjacent to your work - **•** You have excellent attention to detail - **•** You enjoy consistency in your work - **•** You take pride in the products you produce - **•** Learning and improving techniques feels like an opportunity, not a burden - **•** You have exceptional values including honesty, integrity, and empathy ### Baseline qualifications - **•** Exceptional sewing abilities and advanced measuring, marking, and assembly skills - **•** Comfortable and proficient in operating equipment like die cutting presses, thermal cutters, and sewing machines - **•** Able to accurately lay out work pieces according to plans and patterns using basic measuring instruments - **•** Two or more years of experience in industrial sewing is strongly preferred - **•** A background in embroidery, die cutting, RF welding, and binding could be helpful - **•** Good hand and finger dexterity and coordination - **•** Capable of working in a sitting or standing position for extended periods - **•** Able to repeatedly lift 20 - 45 pounds - **•** Eligible to work in the United States without visa sponsorship ### Your first 30 days - While your work will be focused in sewing, you may also experience several work areas in manufacturing to become familiar with a variety of production processes and equipment. After 30 days of employment, you will have a meeting with your supervisor and another with Human Resources to talk about how it is going in the role. ### Opportunities to grow - Tekton’s Manufacturing department is growing quickly, offering opportunities for our highest performers. There are two clear paths a skilled Operators could pursue. - **Process Improvement**: We push ourselves to find better, faster, and more consistent methods. Some of our best Operators will not only perform the processes but seek to transform them. Moving into a role that is focused on process improvement could be a direction for those able to define a problem, envision possibilities, and implement a successful solution. - **Leadership**: We need great leaders to guide decisions and help our employees grow. If, in addition to being a process expert with high personal standards, you also care deeply about the success of our team, you could be an effective leader of those around you. ### What it's like in Tekton's Manufacturing Center - **Surroundings:** You will be working in a bright, clean Manufacturing Center around people, manufacturing machinery, and material handling equipment like pickers and forklifts. - **Noise level:** Noise levels vary depending on which machines are operating; however, it is typically not loud enough where hearing protection is required. - **Safety:** Safety is important to us, and we take it seriously. We provide protective gear such as vests, gloves, eye protection, and floor mats. - **Temperature:** Our Manufacturing Center has heating and air conditioning. Temperatures can vary between 60 - 80°F depending on the season. - **Dress code:** Clothes should be comfortable to twist, lift, and bend in. Closed-toe shoes are required. ### Pay range - $18.00 - $24.00 per hour ### Benefits package - Full-time employees receive health, dental, vision, life, hospital indemnity, and long-term disability insurance; paid time off; a 401(k) program; and tuition reimbursement. Part-time employees receive a modified benefits package which includes a 401(k) program, paid time off, and a tuition reimbursement program. ### Location and hours - This is an hourly position located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Full-time and part-time positions are available on first or second shift. Full-time employees are required to work an average of 40 - 45 hours per week. Overtime is optional but may be required at times. Part-time employees are required to work an average of 20 hours per week. Schedules are flexible. We are able to change employee start and end times or make special arrangements for scheduling conflicts. ### Direct supervisor - Manufacturing Production Manager ### How to Apply - ### About the department - The Manufacturing department produces a select but expanding number of Tekton tools. We are rapidly advancing our manufacturing capabilities with new equipment, technologies, and processes.