Sorter / Water Spider - Polishing Supply

APS receives incoming products in mixed containers holding many different part numbers together. The Sorter exists to eliminate that noise: this role pulls, identifies, and pre-sorts the exact part numbers polishing needs next, stages them through washing, and delivers them to the line ready to run. The goal is simple — keep polishing working only on what customer demand requires, since polishing output is our biggest constraint to meeting that demand.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Pull incoming mixed-part-number containers and identify individual part numbers against the current polishing need/priority list.

• Pre-sort and stage the specific parts polishing requires next, in the sequence and quantity needed, functioning as the pull signal between incoming stock and the polish line.

• Hand off sorted product to washing so that clean, correct product reaches polishing without delay or mix-up.

• Communicate continuously with polishing leads/supervisors to confirm priorities as demand shifts through the shift.

• Keep sorted and unsorted containers clearly labeled and organized (5S) so status is visible at a glance to anyone on the floor.

• Flag shortages, mispicks, or missing part numbers to supervision promptly so they don't stall the line.

• Move between sorting, washing support, and other production areas as directed by management — this role is expected to flex to wherever the day's constraint is.

• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

• Ability to accurately read, match, and distinguish part numbers and product variations under time pressure.

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.

• Strong attention to detail; sorting errors directly creates downstream problems for polishing and customers.

• Basic math and counting skills for quantity verification.

• Team-first attitude and willingness to jump into other roles/areas as needed.

• Prior manufacturing, warehouse, or sorting/kitting experience preferred but not required.

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching throughout the shift.

• Ability to lift/carry up to [confirm lbs.] regularly.

• Repetitive handling of small to medium metal parts.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing/plating floor environment; required PPE must be always worn.

• Exposure to typical plant conditions: noise, moving product, and proximity to washing/polishing operations.

This job description reflects the general nature of work performed and is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required.