PADE Operator

Position Summary:
Operates PADE machine to fabricate and shape wood parts according to production specifications. Ensures parts meet quality standards and tolerances while maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.

Position Responsibilities:

• Load plywood or wood stock onto PADE.

• Produce quality wood components using CNC machinery such as lathes and milling machines.

• Load parts, verify and run CNC programs, operate controls, set offsets, make simple edits, deburr parts, and inspect finished pieces for quality conformance.

• Read and interpret drawings, manuals, specifications, or sample parts to determine dimensions, tolerances, sequences of operations, and setup requirements.

• Measure and mark dimensions and reference points on material or workpieces as guides for machining.

• Detect and correct equipment malfunctions or out-of-tolerance machining, making adjustments within the machine’s capabilities. Report major malfunctions to the supervisor.

• Operate forklifts or lifting devices for part movement (when certified).

• Communicate effectively with supervisors, engineers, production control, quality, maintenance, and other departments to resolve machining or quality issues.

• Maintain clean, organized work area and perform basic preventive maintenance. Follow all Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) safety procedures before performing maintenance or repair.

• Comply with all state and federal laws, company quality standards, policies, and safety/environmental regulations.

• Wear required personal protective equipment (safety glasses, steel-toe shoes) and report unsafe conditions immediately.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Essential Skills and Experience:

• English required for reading tickets and instructions.

• Ability to read and interpret drawings, follow routers, perform basic math, and use standard measuring tools.

• Completion of a CNC operator technical training program or equivalent hands-on experience.

• Experience specifically operating PADE CNC wood-turning equipment preferred.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Lift/Carry: Frequently lift 35–50 lbs; occasionally lift over 50 lbs (team lift for heavier items).

• Standing/Walking: Must stand and walk consistently for 8+ hours.

• Reach/Handle/Grasp: Frequent hand use required to load and unload plywood and parts.

• Bend/Lift/Stoop: Frequent bending, lifting, and climbing to gather and handle materials.

• Environment: Indoor manufacturing environment with controlled airflow; some buildings may not be air-conditioned.

• Vision: Requires close visual acuity (within 3 feet) for precision work, with or without corrective lenses.