Machine Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary: The Cable Operator is a manufacturing position within a wire and cable production environment. This role is responsible for operating cabling equipment used to assemble multiple insulated conductors into finished cable constructions. The Cable Operator supports safe, efficient, and high-quality production while ensuring compliance with work orders, engineering specifications, and quality standards. This position works closely with lead operators, supervisors, and quality personnel to maintain proper cable geometry, alignment, and overall product integrity.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with the setup, start-up, and shutdown of cabling production lines following standard operating procedures.

• Operate cabling equipment including payoffs, cablers, binders, fillers, and take-up systems.

• Read, understand, and follow work orders, setup sheets, and production documentation.

• Load, stage, and verify correct materials such as insulated conductors, fillers, binders, and reels prior to production.

• Monitor cabling parameters including line speed, tension, lay length, and conductor alignment during operation.

• Perform basic machine adjustments under the guidance of senior operators or supervisors.

• Inspect in-process and finished cable for defects such as improper lay, conductor misalignment, insulation damage, or dimensional variation.

• Use measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, diameter tape, and gauges to verify product specifications.

• Accurately complete production reports, quality checks, and material traceability documentation.

• Assist with reel changes, material changeovers, and job transitions as required.

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the work area in accordance with 5S and housekeeping standards.

• Communicate process issues, equipment concerns, or quality problems to the cabling lead or manufacturing supervisor.

Qualifications

• Willingness to learn cabling processes, cable constructions, and manufacturing equipment.

• Mechanical aptitude with interest in industrial machinery and production environments.

• Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions accurately.

• Dependable attendance and punctuality.

• Ability to work rotating shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays as required by business needs.

• Must not be color blind and must be able to distinguish conductor and insulation colors.

Skills and Competencies

• Attention to detail with a strong focus on product quality and workmanship.

• Basic math skills for measurements, calculations, and recording production data.

• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a manufacturing environment.

• Basic troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

• Good organizational and time-management skills.

• Effective communication skills.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Previous manufacturing, cabling, or machine operation experience preferred but not required.

• On-the-job training provided for cabling equipment, processes, and quality requirements.

Safety Requirements

• Comply with all company safety policies, procedures, and OSHA regulations.

• Properly wear and maintain required personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Follow lockout/tagout procedures and all machine guarding requirements.

• Remain aware of moving machinery, rotating equipment, and ergonomic lifting practices.

• Immediately report injuries, near misses, unsafe conditions, or equipment damage.

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during a shift.

• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 75 pounds with or without assistance.

• Frequent bending, reaching, and manual handling of materials and reels.

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with noise, heat, and industrial materials.

• Repetitive motions associated with operating and monitoring cabling equipment.