Manufacturing Machine Operator I - 3rd Shift

About Kennametal

With over 85 years as an industrial technology leader, Kennametal Inc. delivers productivity to customers through materials science, tooling and wear-resistant solutions. Customers across aerospace and defense, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation turn to Kennametal to help them manufacture with precision and efficiency. Learn more at kennametal.com. Follow @Kennametal: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Manufacturing Machine Operator

LaVergne, TN

Sunday - Thursday, 11pm - 7am

Job Summary and Mission

Describe the purpose of the job

Operate multiple Stahli or Blanchard grinding machines to produce high-quality products in accordance with blueprint specifications and production standards.

Key Job Responsibilities

These describe the job duties

• Set up and operate top and bottom grinding machines, including Stahli 605 and 702 models.
• Install, change, and dress grinding wheels as required.
• Determine required stock removal while maintaining tolerance specifications.
• Gauge inserts to ensure dimensional accuracy.
• Visually inspect inserts using scopes to verify surface characteristics.
• Operate additional equipment as needed to support production.
• Set up machines and troubleshoot basic to moderately complex issues independently.

Key Job Accountabilities

These describe the job duties

• Adhere strictly to all safety procedures and demonstrate a strong commitment to safe work practices.
• Follow operating procedures and work instructions for non-standard operations.
• Ensure all products meet specifications outlined in control plans, routings, and blueprints.
• Maintain consistent production output to meet daily departmental goals.
• Exhibit reliability and dependability in attendance and task execution.
• Communicate safety concerns, quality issues, and production updates with supervisors and peers across all shifts.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Previous experience with grinding equipment preferred.

Work Environment

• Controlled indoor environment with temperature regulation and dust collection systems.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) required: safety glasses with side shields, safety shoes, and gloves (including cut-resistant gloves when applicable).

Physical Demands

• Standing for approximately eight hours per shift, with two scheduled breaks.
• Periodic walking, reaching, bending, and light lifting.
• Must be able to lift insert trays weighing up to 33 pounds.

Problem Solving

• Complete assigned production orders by due date and according to operational guidelines.
• Solve routine problems using standard operating procedures and job-specific knowledge.
• Interpret and execute verbal and written instructions efficiently.
• Apply acquired knowledge of insert styles and production processes to maintain output quality.

Kennametal Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer