Machine Operator - 1st Shift - $20.00/hr
Job Description
We are looking for dedicated and skilled Machine Operators to join our team. This Machine Operator role focuses on operating manual lathes, grinding machines, and related production equipment in a custom, job shop environment. You will perform frequent setups and changeovers, work to tight tolerances, and support a variety of custom rubber component manufacturing tasks rather than repetitive assembly line work. This is a first-shift opportunity with overtime potential and strong prospects for long-term growth and development. We offer weekly pay as well. Apply Today!
Responsibilities
Operate manual lathes, grinding machines, and other production equipment to produce high-quality rubber components.
Perform frequent machine setups and changeovers in a job shop environment to accommodate different part sizes and specifications.
Strip and blast rubber components for reconditioning as part of the production and refurbishment process.
Assist with rubber roller recovery and resurfacing to extend the life and performance of industrial rollers.
Read and interpret technical drawings and specifications to build parts to exact dimensions.
Take precise measurements using calipers, gauges, and other measuring tools, working comfortably with fractions and decimals.
Work within a tight tolerance environment, including measurements down to 1/1000 of an inch, to ensure product quality and consistency.
Set up machines for different part sizes and specifications, adjusting settings and tooling as needed.
Measure, inspect, and adjust parts during and after machining to ensure they meet quality standards.
Input accurate production data into a tablet-based system to track work, parts, and performance.
Support other shop functions such as molding or rubber processing as needed to meet production demands.
Work on a variety of custom jobs rather than repetitive assembly line work, adapting to changing priorities and projects.
Collaborate with team members to solve problems and complete jobs efficiently while also working independently once trained.
Troubleshoot machine and process issues, using mechanical aptitude and critical thinking to resolve problems.
Maintain a clean and organized work area, following shop procedures and safety guidelines.
Essential Skills
Hands-on experience operating manual lathes and manual machines in a machining or machine shop environment.
Proven ability to set up machines, including manual lathes, for different part sizes and specifications.
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills, with the ability to think critically and resolve issues on the shop floor.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints to produce parts to exact specifications.
Basic math skills, including comfort with fractions, decimals, and precise measurements.
Ability to work with tight tolerances, including measurements to 1/1000 of an inch, using calipers, gauges, and other measuring tools.
Experience in machine operation and manual machining within a job shop or machining environment.
Capability to work both collaboratively with a team and independently once trained.
Strong problem-solving ability and willingness to ask questions and take initiative.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience in a job shop or custom manufacturing environment where work is varied and non-repetitive.
Familiarity with grinding machines and other production equipment used in machining or rubber processing.
Comfort using tablet-based or digital systems to input production data.
Interest in hands-on work and mechanical processes, with a desire to learn and grow in a machining or manufacturing career.
Ability to support related processes such as molding, rubber processing, and rubber roller recovery and resurfacing.
Engaged work style, including showing up consistently, asking questions, and taking ownership of tasks.
Willingness to adapt to changing priorities and work on a wide variety of custom jobs.
Why Work Here?
You will join a small, tight-knit custom manufacturing shop where quality, craftsmanship, and employee development are central values. The company offers long-term stability, with many team members staying 25-30 years or more, and it is currently positioned for growth and expansion. Entry-level candidates who show up consistently and demonstrate a desire to learn receive training and support, while high performers benefit from fast-track opportunities and frequent internal promotions, including pathways from the shop to office and leadership roles. The focus on custom, job shop work keeps the workday varied and engaging, and overtime opportunities are available as the business continues to grow.
Work Environment
This role is based in a small, approximately 20-person custom manufacturing shop that produces industrial rubber components such as rollers, rings, wheels, and other rubber-coated parts. The facility operates as a hands-on production environment centered on quality and craftsmanship, with a strong emphasis on precision machining and rubber processing. You will work on first shift from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with potential overtime extending the day to 4:30 p.m. as business needs require. The shop uses manual lathes, grinding machines, and other machining and rubber-processing equipment, and you will rely on calipers, gauges, and other precision measuring tools to work within tight tolerances. The environment is collaborative and close-knit, with opportunities to support various functions such as molding, rubber roller resurfacing and recovering, and reconditioning and custom fabrication. As the company continues to expand, overtime opportunities are expected, and the setting remains a traditional, hands-on industrial shop focused on custom, non-repetitive work.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Akron, OH.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job
classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be
subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits
available for this temporary role may include the following:
Medical, dental & vision
Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
Short and long-term disability
Health Spending Account (HSA)
Transportation benefits
Employee Assistance Program
Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Akron,OH.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jun 5, 2026.
About Aerotek
We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry - from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.
Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
