Operations Engineer\n
Montana Silversmiths | Columbus, Montana
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Montana Silversmiths is looking for a technically skilled and hands-on Operations Engineer to support the safety, manufacturing, and maintenance functions of our organization. This position plays a critical role in promoting a proactive safety culture, improving manufacturing processes, increasing equipment reliability, reducing downtime, and supporting long-term operational stability.
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The Operations Engineer will work closely with teams across the organization to identify opportunities for improvement, solve technical challenges, ensure regulatory compliance, and implement practical engineering solutions. The ideal candidate is a hands-on problem solver who combines strong technical knowledge with excellent communication, analytical, and project management skills.
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If you’re passionate about manufacturing, continuous improvement, equipment reliability, and creating safer and more efficient operations, we’d love to hear from you!
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What You'll Do
Safety & Compliance\n
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- Conduct regular facility inspections, risk assessments, and internal safety audits.
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- Develop and deliver safety training programs, including new-hire onboarding and annual compliance refreshers.
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- Lead investigations of incidents, near misses, and workplace injuries to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
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- Ensure compliance with OSHA, NFPA, and other applicable safety regulations and standards.
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- Coordinate safety initiatives with department leaders and serve as a primary resource for safety concerns and improvement opportunities.
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- Monitor and report safety performance metrics while continuously identifying opportunities to improve site safety.
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- Promote a proactive safety culture throughout the organization.
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Manufacturing Engineering & Process Improvement\n
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- Design, evaluate, and implement manufacturing processes and workflows that improve consistency, quality, and efficiency.
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- Develop and maintain technical documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and visual aids.
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- Apply lean manufacturing principles to identify waste, streamline processes, and improve overall operational efficiency.
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- Support cross-functional teams with new product introductions, tooling updates, and equipment validations.
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- Analyze production metrics and quality data to troubleshoot issues and implement effective corrective actions.
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- Support training initiatives related to new equipment, processes, and production improvements.
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- Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing methods, productivity, quality, and cost efficiency.
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Maintenance & Equipment Reliability\n
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- Provide hands-on engineering support to troubleshoot and resolve mechanical, electrical, and automation-related issues on production equipment.
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- Assist with the development and execution of preventive and predictive maintenance strategies.
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- Collaborate with technicians, contractors, and supervisors to execute equipment repairs, upgrades, and modifications efficiently.
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- Maintain accurate technical documentation, including repair procedures, wiring diagrams, and system schematics.
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- Recommend and support equipment upgrades, retrofits, and modifications to extend equipment lifecycle and improve performance.
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- Contribute to capital improvement projects through equipment specification, installation, testing, and operational support.
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- Analyze recurring equipment issues and develop long-term engineering solutions to reduce downtime and improve equipment reliability.
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- Support maintenance operations by identifying opportunities to improve equipment performance and infrastructure stability.
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What We're Looking For\n
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- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mathematics, or a similar technical field; or equivalent of 3–5 years of engineering experience in a similar manufacturing environment.
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- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment, and engineering principles.
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- Experience with electroplating, CNC machines, tool and die, furnace brazing, metals, and equipment design.
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- Strong technical problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
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- Proficiency in data analysis and using production and operational data to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
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- Technically proficient with Microsoft Office, Microsoft Dynamics AX, CAD packages, and other relevant computer software.
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- Strong understanding of workplace safety practices and applicable regulatory requirements.
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- Ability to work hands-on with manufacturing and maintenance teams to identify and resolve technical challenges.
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- Excellent communication, organizational, and project management skills.
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- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
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- Strong commitment to safety, continuous improvement, quality, and operational excellence.
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What We Offer\n
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- Opportunity to make a direct impact across safety, manufacturing, and maintenance operations.
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- Hands-on engineering experience within a unique manufacturing environment.
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- Opportunity to lead continuous improvement and equipment reliability initiatives.
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- Collaborative work environment with cross-functional exposure across the organization.
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- Opportunity to represent and support a well-established Montana brand with a strong Western heritage.
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- Competitive compensation and benefits package.
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Physical Requirements\n
This is a hands-on engineering position within a manufacturing environment. The role requires the ability to regularly move throughout production and maintenance areas and may involve standing, walking, bending, reaching, and working around manufacturing equipment.
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The position may require hands-on troubleshooting and interaction with mechanical, electrical, automation, and production equipment. Appropriate safety procedures and personal protective equipment must be followed when working in manufacturing and maintenance areas.
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How to Apply\n
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit a resume to: hr@montanasilversmiths.com
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Montana Silversmiths Inc.
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Columbus, Montana
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Montana Silversmiths is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.