Production Machine Operator

Production Machine Operator The Production Worker will be responsible for cleaning welds according to customer specifications. The ideal candidate should possess an attention to detail and the ability to work collaboratively with other team members. They will also be responsible for operating and maintaining chemical passivation systems used to clean and treat metal parts, typically stainless steel, to enhance corrosion resistance. This role involves the safe handling of chemicals, precise monitoring of tank parameters, and adherence to safety and quality protocols in a manufacturing environment.Responsibilities Set up, operate, and maintain the TIG cleaning system according to specific job requirements and safety protocols.Operate and monitor passivation tanks and associated equipment following standard operating procedures (SOPs).Effectively remove any discoloration, heat tint, oxides, and other contaminants from TIG welds using appropriate cleaning fluids.Prepare parts and materials for passivation, including cleaning, racking, and placement in tanks.Achieve a clean and corrosion-resistant finish on stainless steel and other metals.Mix and test chemical solutions to ensure proper concentration and effectiveness, making adjustments as necessary.Inspect cleaned welds to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications.Perform visual inspections of parts before and after treatment for cleanliness, finish quality, and conformance to specifications.Document all process parameters, maintenance checks, and batch information accurately and in a timely manner.Handle hazardous chemicals in accordance with OSHA safety standards and company policies.Clean and maintain the TIG cleaning system, brushes, leads, and other components to maximize their lifespan and ensure optimal performance.Maintain cleanliness and organization of the passivation area, including proper disposal of waste materials.Coordinate with quality control and production teams to ensure workflow and part quality meet production schedules.Adhere to safety regulations and wear appropriate PPE to ensure a safe work environment.Perform routine maintenance and report equipment malfunctions or safety concerns to supervisors.Maintain a clean and orderly workspace.Set up and operate pressure testing equipment in accordance with testing procedures.Perform hydrostatic and pneumatic tests on parts, assemblies, and systems to detect leaks, verify performance, and ensure compliance with specifications.Monitor pressure gauges, readouts, and valves during testing processes.Identify, document, and report defects or failures discovered during tests.Other duties as assigned.Essential Skills Attention to detailInspection skillsMachine operationGeneral production skillsAbility to read and interpret technical instructions and safety data sheets (SDS)Prior experience in a manufacturing environment1+ year of experience in a manufacturing, chemical handling, or metal finishing environmentCommitment to safety protocols related to hazardous materials and chemical handlingHand-eye coordination and manual dexterityAdditional Skills & Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent; technical certification or relevant trade school education preferredPrior experience in welding or metalworking is beneficialPrevious experience with passivation, pickling, or metal finishing processesFamiliarity with hand and power toolsAbility to perform physical demands such as standing for long periods, occasional bending, stooping, kneeling, pushing, pulling, twisting, and lifting up to 50 lbs.Why Work Here? Join a team that values integrity, trust, creativity, courage, teamwork, and excellence. Experience a supportive and fast-paced work environment where positive communication and interpersonal skills are encouraged. Enjoy flexibility, opportunities for cross-training, and a collaborative culture that respects confidentiality and listens to employee concerns.Work Environment The work schedule offers two shift options: 1st Shift from 5am to 3:30pm Monday to Thursday or 6am to 4:30pm Monday to Thursday, with voluntary overtime on Fridays. The work culture emphasizes creating a healthy working environment through positive communication and respect for all employees.Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Caledonia, MN.Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $20.00/hr.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Caledonia, MN.Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Apr 10, 2026.About Aerotek: We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies' construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.