The Weld Cell Operator supports manufacturing operations through the setup, operation, and monitoring of robotic and manual welding equipment to produce components that meet customer specifications, quality standards, and production requirements. This position is responsible for performing equipment changeovers, conducting quality inspections, troubleshooting process issues, maintaining production records, and ensuring products are manufactured safely and efficiently in accordance with established procedures and work instructions.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Weld Cell Operation

Set up and operate robotic and manual welding equipment in accordance with production schedules, work instructions, and quality requirements.
Perform weld cell changeovers, including fixture changes, program selection, and wire replacement as required.
Load components into welding fixtures and safely cycle equipment to produce welded assemblies.
Monitor equipment performance and make approved process adjustments to maintain quality and productivity standards.
Troubleshoot minor equipment, tooling, fixture, and process-related issues and communicate concerns to supervision as necessary.
Unload completed parts and transport materials to the next operation utilizing approved material handling methods.
Assist with equipment startup, shutdown, and routine operational checks.

Quality Assurance

Perform in-process and final inspections of welded components to verify compliance with customer specifications and internal quality standards.
Utilize calipers, GO/NO-GO gauges, height gauges, feeler gauges, fixtures, and other measuring devices as required.
Read and interpret blueprints, Quality Requirement Reports (QRRs), work instructions, and other process documentation.
Complete QRRs and other quality-related documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
Perform self-inspections to ensure only conforming product advances to the next operation.
Identify and positively control nonconforming products and immediately notify supervision and Quality Assurance when nonconformances are identified.

Production Reporting and Documentation

Complete all required production, quality, and operational documentation accurately and timely.
Record production quantities, labor transactions, scrap, downtime, and related information within the ERP system.
Maintain accurate records supporting quality, production, and traceability requirements.
Communicate equipment, quality, safety, and production concerns to supervisors and appropriate personnel.

Safety and Housekeeping

Follow all company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and standard operating procedures.
Utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe work practices at all times.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment in accordance with housekeeping and 5S standards.
Safely operate hand and power tools, including grinders and other equipment required to perform job duties.

Continuous Improvement

Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, waste reduction, and cost savings.
Review process documentation periodically and recommend revisions when opportunities for improvement are identified.
Assist with training, cross-functional support, and other operational activities as assigned.
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Position Requirements

Education and Experience

High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
Previous manufacturing experience preferred.
Experience operating automated manufacturing equipment or welding equipment preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Strong mechanical aptitude.
Ability to troubleshoot equipment, tooling, and process-related issues.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, QRRs, work instructions, and technical documentation.
Proficient in the use of precision measuring instruments, including calipers, GO/NO-GO gauges, height gauges, and feeler gauges.
Ability to safely operate power tools, including grinders and similar equipment.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
Effective verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Demonstrated reliability, dependability, and strong work ethic.
Basic computer skills and ability to accurately enter information into ERP systems.

Responsibilities and Authorities

Carry out quality inspections in accordance with Control Plans, QRR requirements, work instructions, and established procedures.
Determine product and process conformance within the scope of assigned responsibilities and accurately record objective evidence of inspection activities.
Stop production within the scope of the position when processes are producing nonconforming products, excessive waste, or conditions that could adversely affect quality.
Positively control nonconforming products and immediately notify supervision and Quality Assurance when nonconformances are identified.
Review and maintain familiarity with documentation applicable to the position and recommend revisions when process improvements or corrections are warranted.

Physical Requirements

Ability to frequently lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, twist, and perform repetitive motions throughout a scheduled shift.
Ability to safely work around robotic welding equipment, moving machinery, and industrial manufacturing processes.
Ability to wear required PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe footwear, welding sleeves, and other protective equipment as required.
Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, noise, sparks, welding fumes, and varying temperatures.

Diversity & Inclusion Statement

UPG Electrical is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Learn more about this Employer on their Career Site