Separator Operator

Department: Manufacturing
Employment Status: Full-Time
Classification: Hourly
Reports To: Manufacturing Supervisor

Job Summary

The Separator Operator is responsible for separating, deburring, sorting, and labeling parts produced by laser and water-cutting machines. This role supports daily production goals by ensuring parts are processed accurately, safely, and efficiently. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, committed to quality, and able to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following represents a list of core responsibilities. Additional duties may be assigned as operations expand.

• Separate, deburr, and label parts produced from laser and water-cutting machines.
• Use hand tools such as deburring tools and grinders to finish parts.
• Sort loosened parts according to required operational steps.
• Store finished parts on pallets and record inventory using a barcode scanner.
• Communicate production issues that may affect quality, delivery timelines, or operational efficiency.
• Utilize appropriate tools to maintain workflow and machine operation.
• Maintain strict adherence to safety and quality standards.
• Address equipment or machine issues promptly and efficiently.
• Work collaboratively with team members to improve processes and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Participate in ongoing training and development as required.

Skills and Attributes

• Ability to safely use a variety of hand tools.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints and technical drawings.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and procedures.
• Knowledge of tooling, speeds, and feeds is beneficial.
• Ability to inspect parts visually and mechanically to ensure they meet specifications.
• Ability to operate lifting equipment such as overhead cranes or other lifting devices.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a production environment.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and quality standards.
• Open to feedback and adaptable to change.

Work Environment

This position is performed in a manufacturing shop environment. Employees should expect exposure to normal shop conditions such as noise, dust, and airborne particles. Consistent attendance and flexibility to address production needs are required.

Physical Requirements

• Physically active position.
• Frequent standing and walking throughout the shift (8+ hours).
• Regular bending, reaching, squatting, pushing, and pulling.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, with frequent lifting of 30–50 lbs.
• Manual dexterity required to operate hand tools and equipment.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks.
• Adequate vision and hearing to safely operate equipment and read specifications or blueprints.

Schedule

Full-time position.
Typical schedule is Monday – Friday, with early morning start times depending on production needs.

Education & Experience

Required:

• High school diploma or GED (or equivalent experience).
• Basic computer skills.
• Mechanical aptitude and familiarity with hand and power tools.

Preferred:

• Experience operating overhead cranes or rigging equipment.
• Previous manufacturing or fabrication experience.