Forming Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Job Summary

Mac. Lean-Fogg is hiring a Forming Machine Operator - 1st Shift at our Richmond, Illinois manufacturing facility. In this entry-level production role, you will operate and monitor metal-forming equipment, inspect parts for quality, and support safe, efficient manufacturing under direct supervision. Candidates with manufacturing experience are encouraged to apply, and entry-level applicants willing to learn may also be considered.

Location: Richmond, IL Work Arrangement: On-site Schedule: 1st Shift, Monday-Friday, 4:00 AM-2:30 PM Pay: $23.00/hour Employment Type: Full-time / Hourly Overtime: Overtime may be required based on business needs.

What You'll Do

as a Forming Machine Operator Operate and monitor forming machines according to established work instructions, production requirements, and supervisor guidance. Assist with basic machine setup, adjustments, and changeovers. Load raw materials, including wire, bar stock, and other forming materials, while maintaining proper material flow.

Perform routine in-process quality inspections using gauges and measuring tools to verify part dimensions and specifications. Identify defects, separate nonconforming materials, and report quality concerns. Monitor equipment performance and promptly communicate machine abnormalities, jams, production interruptions, and maintenance needs to your supervisor.

Complete production documentation accurately, including production tracking sheets, scrap reports, and other required records. Follow established safety procedures, including machine guarding and lockout/tagout requirements. Maintain a clean, organized work area according to 5S standards. Support preventive maintenance activities as directed and assist with material handling, packaging, and labeling of finished products.

Collaborate with production, quality, and maintenance team members while participating in equipment training and continuous improvement activities.

What You'll Bring

Required Qualifications No formal education requirement; entry-level candidates willing to learn may be considered. Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions, work orders, and standard operating procedures. Basic math and measurement skills, including the ability to use simple measuring tools to verify part dimensions.

Willingness to learn forming-machine operations, equipment functions, tooling, and basic machine adjustments. Attention to detail and the ability to recognize visible defects, follow quality standards, and communicate production concerns. Ability to follow established safety procedures and recognize potential workplace hazards.

Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment under direct supervision while cooperating with production, quality, and maintenance team members. Reliability, organizational skills, and the ability to maintain attendance, follow assigned schedules, complete production records, and adapt to changing priorities.

Preferred Qualifications

High school diploma or GED. One to two years of manufacturing or production experience. Previous experience operating industrial machinery, production equipment, or metal-forming machinery. Familiarity with calipers, micrometers, gauges, or other inspection and measuring tools. Basic understanding of mechanical equipment, machine tooling, or manufacturing processes.

Forklift certification or previous machine-operation training, when applicable to assigned duties. Work Environment & Physical Requirements This position is performed primarily in a manufacturing and production environment involving industrial forming equipment, metal materials, and routine production activities. Standing for extended periods throughout the shift.

Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, and walking. Lifting and carrying materials weighing up to 50 pounds as required. Using manual dexterity to operate equipment, handle materials, and use gauges and measuring tools. Using visual acuity to inspect manufactured parts, identify defects, and read production documentation.

Working around moving machinery, metal materials, lubricants, oil, heat, and varying noise levels. Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) as required by company safety policies. Following established safety, quality, and production procedures throughout the shift, including during extended hours or overtime when required.

The physical requirements described above represent those needed to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits

Eligible employees across Mac. Lean-Fogg and its affiliated companies have access to a comprehensive benefits program designed to support health, financial well-being, time away, and development. This position is eligible for benefits that include: Medical, dental, and vision coverage 401(k) with company match and potential profit sharing Paid time off and paid holidays Health Savings Account contributions for eligible plans Company-paid life insurance and short-term disability coverage Paid parental leave Employee Assistance Program and mental health resources Virtual healthcare resources Tuition reimbursement and development opportunities Additional wellness, financial, and employee programs Benefits are subject to applicable plan terms and eligibility requirements.

Explore our full benefits and interactive resources: https://explore.benefits.macleanfogg.app Pre-Employment Requirements After a conditional offer, this position requires a pre-employment drug screen. Testing and employment decisions are administered consistent with applicable law. About Mac. Lean-Fogg Mac. Lean-Fogg is a fourth-generation, family-owned American manufacturing company headquartered in Mundelein, Illinois.

Founded in 1925, we design and manufacture engineered components and solutions for automotive and industrial markets. Our portfolio includes Mac. Lean-Fogg Component Solutions, OMCO, Mallard Manufacturing, and Threadstrong. Across our companies, we share a commitment to Integrity, People, Customers, and Stewardship while investing in our people, manufacturing capabilities, customers, and communities.

Equal Employment Opportunity & Accommodations Mac. Lean-Fogg and its affiliated companies are equal opportunity employers. We provide equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply, complete an assessment, or participate in the hiring process, contact careers@macleanfogg.com . #ind-nonexempt