Production Machine Operator - Metal Manufacturing (1st Shift)

FALK Panel USA

Production Machine Operator - Metal Manufacturing (1st Shift)

Location: Walker, MI 

Run the Line That Builds What's Next

FALK Panel USA manufactures insulated metal panels for modern construction projects across North America. Our products help create energy-efficient, durable, and visually strong buildings. Our production line is automated, technical, and project-based, meaning every order matters and every operator plays an important part in the final product.

FALK Panel USA is hiring a Production Machine Operator to join our first-shift production team. This role involves active participation across multiple areas of an automated production line, including loading steel coils, monitoring automated systems, checking panel quality, packaging finished products, and helping ensure each project is produced accurately.

Key responsibilities

Production Operations

• Safely operate production equipment in accordance with established work instructions and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). 
• Perform assigned production tasks to meet daily production schedules and customer delivery commitments. 
• Stage steel and materials for upcoming production runs. 
• Load and clear production bundles safely and efficiently. 
• Prepare chemical recipes and materials required for foam production. 
• Monitor equipment performance and notify the Team Lead or Supervisor of equipment concerns. 
• Troubleshoot minor operational issues and assist with machine adjustments when appropriate. 
• Read and interpret work orders, specifications, and measurements. 
• Maintain accurate production records and documentation as required.

Quality

• Perform visual and physical inspections of steel color, gauge, profile, finish, and overall product quality. 
• Verify products meet customer specifications and company quality standards. 
• Immediately identify and report quality concerns or production defects. 
• Follow established quality procedures and inspection requirements. 
• Assist in reducing scrap and rework by maintaining attention to detail throughout the production process. 

Safety

• Follow all OSHA regulations and company safety policies and procedures. 
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times. 
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area. 
• Identify and report unsafe conditions, hazards, or near misses. 
• Demonstrate safe work practices while encouraging fellow team members to do the same.

Teamwork & Continuous Improvement

• Work collaboratively with fellow operators, Team Leads, Supervisors, Maintenance, and Quality personnel. 
• Support cross-training opportunities and learn multiple production positions. 
• Contribute ideas to improve safety, quality, efficiency, and productivity. 
• Demonstrate flexibility by assisting in different production areas as business needs require. 
• Maintain a positive attitude and contribute to FALK's "Customer Focused" culture.

Qualifications:

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent. 
• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn manufacturing processes. 
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work. 
• Ability to safely operate equipment following established procedures. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 

Preferred

• Previous manufacturing or production experience. 
• Forklift certification or ability to obtain certification. 
• Experience reading production drawings or work instructions. 
• Experience using hand and power tools. 

Skills & Competencies

• Strong work ethic and dependability. 
• Excellent communication skills. 
• Problem-solving ability. 
• Attention to detail and quality. 
• Ability to prioritize work in a fast-paced environment. 
• Commitment to teamwork and continuous improvement. 

Work Environment

• Manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, dust, temperature variations, and moving equipment. 
• Regular standing, walking, lifting, and material handling throughout the shift. 
• Frequent interaction with production equipment, forklifts, and overhead cranes. 
• Team-oriented environment focused on safety, quality, and productivity. 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb throughout the workday. 
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds regularly and up to 75 pounds occasionally (with assistance as needed). 
• Ability to perform repetitive motions using hands, arms, and upper body. 
• Ability to safely work around moving equipment and machinery. 
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE). 
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to varying temperatures, noise, and dust.

Pay and benefits

• Full-time, W-2 Employment
• Starting pay is $20 per hour 
• Monthly performance bonus opportunity of up to 12% of base earnings, based on company and/or individual KPI achievement 
• 401(k) with 4% company match
• 100% company-paid medical insurance premiums for employees, spouses, and dependents
• Company-paid dental and vision insurance premiums for employees, spouses, and dependents 
• Benefits begin on the 1st of the month following the hire date
• 11 paid holidays
• 40 hours of PTO after 90 days
• An additional 40 hours of PTO at 6 months
• An additional 40 hours of PTO after 2 years
• PTO renews annually on January 1, with up to 40 hours eligible for carryover 
• $500 gym reimbursement
• Monthly catered lunches
• Company events, including family-friendly summer events, winter events, pickleball, and golf outings
• Schedule: Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM-2:30 PM.

Why FALK Panel USA

FALK is a fast-growing manufacturer with the technology, benefits, and opportunity of a larger company while still keeping a close team culture. You will work on a modern production line where your attention to detail and ability to think ahead make a real difference. With strong company-paid benefits, monthly bonus opportunities, and a team that values people and families, FALK is a place to build a steady career.

FALK Panel USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values a diverse and inclusive workplace.