Metal Model Maker Tier 1 at PRIDGEON & CLAY INC. in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Job Description:

Objective: The Metal Model Maker Tier1 gains experience and knowledge to become a skilled Metal Model Maker and provides customers with product in an exemplary manner according to the company quality policies.

Qualified candidates will possess the following Minimum Requirements:
High school diploma or GEDRequired to enroll in the apprenticeship program within 6 months of starting work, to be completed in a 4 year time frame. Upon completion (class work and 8,000 working hours), apply for the Journeymans card.Experience using quality tools such as micrometers, calipers and gagesA valid drivers license (and the ability to obtain a chauffers license)Ability to pass written and practical tests to obtain company hi-lo/forklift and crane licenseProven mechanical inclination and general math and manufacturing knowledge through standardized testsComputer literacyAbility to lift 50 poundsCannot have a pacemakerAn excellent work record, including attendance
Outstanding candidates will possess the following Desired Requirements:
Completion of courses towards Tooling and ManufacturingPrevious experience operating manufacturing machineryPrevious machine shop experience or shop classes completedExperience operating oxygen/acetylene torches
(Minimum requirements are updated annually to meet the demands of various positions; employees hired prior to the latest revision update may not meet all current requirements.)

Essential Functions:

Die Development/Standard Practices:
Apply tooling and troubleshooting knowledge to maintain machine uptime. Troubleshoot automatic and hand-feed presses.Learn from skilled Tool & Die Prototype Makers how to perform de-burring of prototype parts.Cross-train on other prototyping equipment and processes, including the Turret Press, CO2 Laser, Fiber Laser, CNC Machines, and Welding.
Prototype Preparation/Record-Keeping:
Process material for prototype orders, including cutting coil stock and preparing blanks by getting it ready to run in the dies.Maintain R&D press room and machining areas making sure the machinery is kept clean and in working order.Maintain inventory and organization of all die detail components and sensors within defined inventory locations; receive, relocate, and issue components from defined inventory locations.Record project time information in Electronic Asset Management (EAM) daily including time on work orders and preventative maintenance.
Quality:
Use and maintain quality tools such as calipers, micrometers, height gages, solid squares, pin gages, dial indicators, Joe blocks, 1-2-3 blocks, machine parallels, angle plates, sine plates, V-blocks, precision vices, protractors, feeler gages, radius gages, and telescoping gages.Use available quality data (Statistical Process Control, Coordinate Measuring Machine checks, fixtures, controls plans, and visual inspections) to verify that parts meet quality requirements.Validate process parameters and enter system deviations, when applicable.Verify that prototype parts produced are manufactured according to requirements; document as needed per control plan.
Continuous Improvement/Lean Principles:
Continuously improve development and design of tooling; document potential points of failure.Increase personal and departmental efficiency.Participate in and support lean initiatives, continuous improvement, and problem-solving events; document savings, consolidate processes, and eliminate operations.Identify and attempt to eliminate areas of waste.Anticipate problems and work to eliminate them before they happen.Follow up temporary fixes with permanent corrective actions.Participate in 8D or 5-Why problem solving teams, die improvements, and die reviews.
Safety/5S:
Consistently adhere to, and support, company policies and procedures, including ISO, TS 16949 and safety regulations.Safely use hi-lo/forklift and cranes to load and transport dies, maintaining licenses and inspection sheets.Follow all safety procedures, including Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), controls, safety devices, lock-out/tag-out, use of coolants, and die block procedures.Identify potential safety issues and take appropriate action. Ensure environment is free of avoidable risks, and report concerns immediately, taking appropriate action to immediately rectify and resolve.Organize and maintain efficiency of personal work area and press room area per 5S standards.
Organization/Communication/Professionalism:
Effectively communicate with co-workers and management personnel to enhance teamwork and communication initiatives.Provide necessary, accurate, and timely feedback of all pertinent information to co-workers and management, including training and appraising the work of other prototype makers, as appropriate.Consistently exhibit appropriate attendance habits, working the hours necessary to perform the job.Organize and maintain efficiency of personal work area.Consistently adhere to, and support, company policies and procedures, including ISO, IATF 16949, and safety regulations.Accept instructions and duties in a positive manner, learning from experienced Tool & Die Prototype Makers, and seeking clarification for complete understanding for job independence and elimination of waste.Treat all co-workers with dignity and respect.Pick up and deliver product to suppliers and customers, as needed. Provide assistance to suppliers, including on-site visits to their facilities, as necessary.Exhibit all the attributes of a positive role model (including professionalism, personal integrity, and positive attitude) for employees and managers to emulate.Assist in maintaining company values (Integrity, People, Customers, Safety, We Can IfDo What It Takes, and Ownership) daily, through thoughts and actions.