L.J. Smith is the largest stair parts manufacturing company in the country. Our continued growth over the past several decades is clearly a result of our leadership role in developing and taking to market new and innovative products and techniques.

The primary responsibility of the machine setup & operator position is to efficiently and safely setup and operate the various pieces of production equipment within the facility.  An operator in this position is expected to work in a hands-on fashion, to take ownership of the quality and quantity of product produced during his/her shift and to be actively involved in continual process improvements.  The successful employee in this position will be self-motivated receiving general supervision from management and / or the department foreman.    Mastery of the duties and responsibilities of the position combined with good attendance, a positive demeanor and good working relationships will provide a strong foundation for advancement to other positions within the organization.  Essential duties and responsibilities include:

• Set up and operate equipment including moulders, lathes, gluepress, fingerjointer, routers and other ancillary equipment needed to shape, profile, turn or otherwise fabricate products made from wood material
• Read work orders and examine product specifications to determine setup procedures, material to be used, proper run sequence, etc.
• Select and install cutting heads and/or tooling on equipment according to profile and other specifications
• Position heads and tooling and make adjustments to achieve proper product dimensions
• Verify characteristics of materials in process, using gauges, rulers, calipers, templates, schedules, work instructions, etc. to ensure conformance to specifications
• Inspect material for defects prior to and after processing
• Ensure processes are achieving goals for output, downtime and scrap; responsible for quality of product being produced
• Accurately report production activity through system transactions, written documents and reports
• Identify and communicate machine maintenance and / or performance issues
• Ensure proper guarding and safety devices are functioning and in use
• Provide coverage as needed in other areas within or outside of the department
• Other tasks may be assigned based upon the current work load and the needs of the company and customer

The knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform the daily tasks and job duties bulleted above are as follows:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent
• Previous machine operation and setup experience desired
• Ability to use a computer to perform detailed inquires, update information, respond to e-mail, and print reports on a daily basis
• Ability to motivate others to meet demands established by the schedule
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities
• Detail oriented and organized
• Good oral and written communication skills
• Basic math skills

We participate in a Drug Free Safety Program for a drug-free workplace. All positions require background checks and a pre-employment drug screen. Wage is commensurate to the levels of knowledge, skill and ability that an applicant brings to this position.

L. J. Smith offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision and life insurances, 401(k) savings plan, tuition aid, paid holidays/vacations, etc.

Hourly new hires can qualify for a 50 cent increase after the successful completion of the 90 day Introduction Period and receive consideration for an additional merit wage increase each year on their hire anniversary date in conjunction with an acceptable Performance Review. Regular full-time hourly employees also have the opportunity to earn an additional compensation bonus per quarter via our Key Performance Incentive (KPI) program.

We look forward to your resume!