Machine Operator

We are looking for an experienced machine operator to join our team in the jewelry manufacturing industry. The ideal candidate will have expertise in jewelry productioncasting, soldering, clipping, and grinding, with specific experience working with karat gold. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the precision, quality, and efficiency of the jewelry production process.

Qualifications:

• 3-5 years of experience in the Jewelry Manufacturing industry, specifically in process knowledge and machine operation, casting, soldering, clipping, grinding, and finishing.
• Karat Gold Expertise:Strong experience working with different grades of karat gold (10K, 14K, 18K, 22K) and understanding of their properties.
• Technical Skills:Proficiency in the use of jewelry production machinery, including soldering irons, grinders, and clipping tools.
• Attention to Detail:Exceptional ability to work with precision and maintain high-quality standards in all stages of jewelry production.
• Problem-Solving Skills:Ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues with machines or materials to maintain production schedules.
• Team Player:Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Safety Focused:Knowledge of and commitment to following all safety regulations, especially when handling machinery and precious metals.

What You'll Do:

• Operate Jewelry Machinery: Set up and operate machines used in the jewelry production process, including casting, soldering, clipping, grinding, and finishing gold components.
• Casting: Use specialized equipment related to the casting process.
• Soldering:Perform precise and high-quality soldering on karat gold jewelry to create strong, seamless joints without compromising the integrity or appearance of the pieces.
• Clipping and Grinding:Use specialized tools to clip, grind, and polish gold jewelry to achieve the desired level of quality.
• Gold Handling:Work with various materials (SS, 10K, 14K, 18K, 22K) with strong attention to detail, ensuring minimal waste and optimal results
• .Quality Control:Inspect each jewelry piece during and after the manufacturing process to ensure it meets high-quality standards and specifications.
• Machine Maintenance:Regularly maintain and troubleshoot machinery to keep operations running smoothly, ensuring quality production with minimal downtime.
• Safety and Cleanliness:Strongly adhere to safety guidelines to maintain a safe working environment and ensure proper handling and disposal of materials.
• Collaboration:Work closely with Value Stream Leader, other operators, to ensure the timely completion of jewelry pieces and meet production goals.
• Documentation:Maintain accurate records of machine settings, materials used, and any quality issues or adjustments made during production.

Compensation: Based on experience.

Benefits: Rio Grande provides a generous benefit package that includes a medical plan with low premium rates and no high deductible (includes dental and vision); company-paid life insurance, long-term disability and telemedicine; optional life insurance, short-term disability and flexible spending account; time-off benefits, which increase with tenure; tuition reimbursement; bereavement leave; employee discounts; 401(k) matching program and more Rio Grande provides competitive compensation, which includes an opportunity to share in the profits.
Our associates strive for joint-accountability—working together for the success of our stakeholders—and we provide a thoughtful, fun and creative environment to support them. We encourage professional and personal development through a variety of training opportunities and a focus on promoting from within.

Established in 1944, Rio Grande (a Berkshire-Hathaway Company) is one of New Mexico's most stable, yet fastest growing manufacturer / distributors, with thousands of valued customers around the world. We are a principle-based company with a highly evolved team-based environment. We can show you how a profoundly effective organization lives these values every day. You can find our 15 guiding Principles on our website as well as information about our community support and how we protect the environment.

Within our 180,000 sq. ft., solar-powered facility (thus covered parking for everyone), Rio Grande maintains sales, marketing, supply chain and administrative offices; a climate-controlled distribution center with more than 30,000 SKUs; and a comprehensive, well-equipped manufacturing operation. Manufactured products include jewelry-making equipment (from basic tools to highly sophisticated induction casting machines) and jewelry components—both die-struck and cast. Capabilities include CAD/CAM, casting, stamp and form, metal finishing, CNC machining, manual milling, tool & die, and electronics/mechanical assembly.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Statement:
Guided by our core values, Rio Grande is committed to treating all people with dignity and respect. We are an equal-opportunity employer with a zero-tolerance policy for harassment or discrimination of any kind. As an advocate for equity and equality, we hire, train and promote qualified people of all backgrounds. We consider employment candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other underrepresented class. We value our associates and have won the yearly Healthiest Places to Work and Family Friendly Business awards on multiple occasions

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