Level/Hammer Operator

Job Title

Level/Hammer Operator – Blade Manufacturing

Purpose

Set up, operate, and tend machines or tools to level steel cores and hammer blades to bring them into desired specifications. Measure run-out, dish, and tension using precision instruments to ensure blades meet exacting quality standards. Perform repetitive tasks safely and accurately, supporting the production of blades less than 22” (75% of time) and less than 48” (25% of time).

Education

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred

• Less than a High School Diploma acceptable with relevant experience

Knowledge

• Production and processing of steel and metal components

• Mechanical principles and machine operation

• Precision measurement using dial indicators, micrometers, and gauges

• Quality control and inspection procedures

• Safety procedures in a manufacturing environment

Skills

Basic Skills

• Active Learning, Active Listening, Critical Thinking

• Learning strategies taught by skilled employees

• Monitoring performance and process outcomes

• Effective speaking for communication with supervisors and peers

Social Skills

• Coordination and instructing others

Technical Skills

• Equipment maintenance (oil and minor upkeep)

• Tool and equipment selection

• Operation and control of leveling and hammering machines

• Operation monitoring and quality control analysis

Work Context

Body Positioning & Physical Demands

• Standing, walking, bending, twisting

• Repetitive hand and arm motions

• Handling and moving workpieces up to 50 lbs (more with assistance)

Environmental Conditions

• Manufacturing environment with normal noise levels

• Exposure to hazardous equipment and minor cuts

• Indoor setting, not environmentally controlled

Pace & Scheduling

• Work pace determined by skill and experience

• Start/stop guided by machine chart and workflow

Work Attire

• Safety shoes with steel toes and metatarsal guards, gloves, safety glasses

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Read and interpret work orders and technical specifications

• Measure and inspect workpieces for run-out, dish, and overall quality using dial indicators and micrometers

• Set up, operate, and tend leveling machines to straighten metal blades

• Hammer and smith blades using tension hammers to achieve desired specifications

• Load and unload workpieces into machines and monitor operations

• Adjust machine speed, tension, and settings according to specifications (including Arga machines)

• Clean machines and maintain a safe, organized work area

• Examine finished workpieces for defects (chipped edges, marred surfaces) and sort accordingly

• Record operational data, job order start and finish times, side run-out, and tension in CAM software (Syteline/ShopTrak)

• Perform safety inspections and report issues to supervisors

• Follow instructions for color-coded workflow and production priorities

Activities

Controlling Machines and Processes

• Use hand tools and precision measuring instruments

Handling & Moving Objects

• Load and unload workpieces

• Move or fit heavy objects (up to 50 lbs independently)

Communication

• Interact with supervisors and peers

• Provide instruction or guidance when necessary

Inspecting Equipment, Materials, or Products

• Verify conformance to specifications

• Conduct safety checks on equipment

Documenting & Recording Information

• Key job orders into ShopTrak/CAM software

• Record measurements, tension, and side run-out

Monitoring & Decision-Making

• Monitor machinery to detect problems

• Evaluate quality and decide on corrective actions

• Count products or materials and verify compliance with standards

Tools and Technology

• Hammers (special tension hammers)

• CAM software (Syteline/ShopTrak)