ACS Operator

Job Description

Job Summary

At Lucchese Bootmaker, we craft the highest quality cowboy boots in the industry. The ACS Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining the ACS embroidery machine to produce high-quality embroidered components in accordance with work orders and production standards.

This role requires strong attention to detail, technical aptitude, and the ability to maintain consistent quality in a fast-paced, production-driven manufacturing environment. The ACS Operator must align with Lucchese values, adhere to company policies, and support a safe and organized work environment.

Scope of Job

The ACS Operator reads and interprets embroidery work orders, manually inputs design specifications into the ACS embroidery system, selects appropriate materials (leather, thread color, design), and monitors machine performance throughout production. The operator performs basic machine maintenance, conducts quality inspections, and ensures accurate documentation of completed orders.

This position plays a critical role in ensuring product customization and embroidery meet Lucchese craftsmanship standards.

Duties / Responsibilities

All responsibilities may be modified based on business needs.

• Receive, review, and accurately interpret embroidery work orders.
• Manually set up the ACS embroidery machine by entering required job specifications into the control monitor.
• Select appropriate leather, thread color, and embroidery design per work order.
• Thread and prepare the embroidery machine with correct color configurations.
• Load embroidery designs into the ACS system and adjust machine settings as required.
• Monitor machine performance during operation to ensure consistent stitch quality and alignment.
• Perform basic preventative maintenance including:
  • Replacing needles
  • Cleaning machine components
  • Troubleshooting minor technical issues
• Inspect finished embroidered components to verify quality standards are met; identify and correct defects as necessary.
• Maintain accurate production records and report completed orders to the Team Lead or Supervisor.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized workstation.
• Support production goals while maintaining Lucchese quality standards.
• Comply with all safety, environmental, and company policies.
• Performs other duties and provides support to other departments as need and as assigned by the Supervisor.

Quality & Production Expectations

• Meet daily production targets established by the department.
• Maintain high first-pass yield with minimal rework.
• Ensure embroidery accuracy in design placement, thread consistency, and stitch integrity.
• Immediately escalate machine malfunctions or quality concerns to Supervisor.
• Demonstrate commitment to craftsmanship and continuous improvement.

Required Skills / Abilities

• Ability to read and interpret detailed work orders.
• Strong visual acuity to identify thread color variations and stitch defects.
• Good manual dexterity for threading and adjusting embroidery machines.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong attention to detail and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to team goals.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, production-driven manufacturing environment.
• Passion and desire for excellence by consistently exceeding quality expectations.

Education, Experience, and/or Certifications

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.
• Prior experience operating embroidery machines or similar industrial equipment preferred.
• Experience in leather goods or boot manufacturing environment preferred.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with applicable law.

• Ability to sit continuously for a minimum of eight-hour shift.
• Frequent repetitive hand and finger movements.
• Ability to reach, bend, push, and pull.
• Ability to lift materials and boxes up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to maintain focus and precision during repetitive tasks.
• Ability to work in a production manufacturing environment.

Safety Requirements:

· Comply with all company safety policies, procedures, and applicable federal, state, and local occupational safety regulations.

· Lead by example in promoting a culture of safety, accountability, and hazard awareness throughout the production team.

· Ensure team members consistently use required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safe work practices.

· Conduct routine safety observations, workplace inspections, and housekeeping activities to identify and address potential hazards.

· immediately report, investigate, and document workplace injuries, near misses, unsafe conditions, and safety incidents, implementing corrective and preventive actions as appropriate.

· Ensure employees receive required safety training and reinforce compliance with established safety procedures and safe operating practices.

· Support emergency preparedness activities, including evacuation procedures, emergency response protocols, and participation in safety drills.

· Stop or suspend work when an unsafe condition presents an immediate risk to employees, equipment, product quality, or the environment, and promptly notify management.

· Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work area in accordance with 5S and housekeeping standards.

· Perform all job duties in a manner that protects the health and safety of employees, contractors, visitors, company assets, and the environment.