Machine Operator - Entry Level

at Aerotek in Newport, Washington, United States

Job Description

Job Title: Entry Level Machine Operator (Lay Up & Press Machine / Winder Kitter Operator)

Job Description

The Machine Operator, also known as a Winder/Kitter, operates specialized production equipment to manufacture graphite or fiberglass unidirectional prepreg (skins) and then cuts these skins into 0/90 oriented kits used as face sheet plies for honeycomb sandwich panels. This role combines hands-on machine operation, precise kitting, and in-process quality checks in a clean manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

+ Operate winding and related production equipment to produce graphite or fiberglass unidirectional prepreg (skins) according to work instructions.

+ Cut prepreg skins into accurately dimensioned 0/90 oriented kits of material for use as face sheet plies in honeycomb sandwich panels.

+ Follow all steps outlined on the production work order to correctly formulate each product from start to finish.

+ Complete each step of the work order thoroughly and accurately, ensuring that no required actions or checks are missed.

+ Perform in-process quality checks at designated steps to verify that materials and products meet specified standards.

+ Use hand and power tools, as well as measuring tools, to perform production, assembly, and kitting tasks safely and precisely.

+ Apply good basic math skills to measure, calculate, and verify dimensions, quantities, and material usage.

+ Document production activities clearly with legible handwriting or printing on work orders and related forms.

+ Balance multiple tasks and priorities to meet production schedules and maintain workflow.

+ Work independently to complete assigned tasks while also collaborating effectively with team members when needed.

+ Communicate clearly in English, both verbally and in writing, to understand work orders, procedures, and safety instructions.

+ Follow all safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized work area within the manufacturing facility.

+ Report directly to the Winder Production Supervisor regarding production status, issues, or quality concerns.

Essential Skills

+ Experience in production, assembly, kitting, or manufacturing environments.

+ Proficiency in machine operation, including operating winding or similar production equipment.

+ Mechanical aptitude and ability to work with hand and power tools safely and effectively.

+ Ability to use measuring tools accurately for cutting and verifying material dimensions.

+ Good basic math skills to support measuring, counting, and process calculations.

+ Ability to follow detailed production work orders and process steps consistently.

+ Capability to perform in-process quality checks and recognize nonconforming product.

+ Ability to speak, read, and write English proficiently to understand instructions and complete documentation.

+ Legible handwriting or printing for accurate completion of production records.

+ Ability to balance multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced production setting.

+ Demonstrated sincere desire to work and reliability in completing assigned tasks.

+ 2+ years of relevant, steady work history preferred, with manufacturing experience considered a plus.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

+ Previous experience in a clean manufacturing facility is beneficial.

+ Experience working with graphite, fiberglass, or composite materials is an advantage.

+ Experience on 12-hour shifts or similar extended schedules is helpful.

+ Comfort working both independently and as part of a production team.

+ Strong attention to detail and quality-focused mindset.

Why Work Here?

Join a clean, well-organized manufacturing environment where you can build on your mechanical and production skills while working with advanced composite materials. The schedule offers structured 12-hour shifts on either weekday or weekend rotations, supporting predictable time off and the potential for a compressed workweek. You will work within a supportive team culture that values reliability, quality, and continuous contribution to a high-precision production process.

Work Environment

This role is based in a clean manufacturing facility focused on producing composite prepreg materials for honeycomb sandwich panels. You will work with production machinery, hand and power tools, and measuring tools in a structured, process-driven environment. Shifts follow a 12-hour schedule on weekday days (Tuesday-Thursday and every other Monday, 4:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.) or weekday nights (Tuesday – Thursday and every other Monday, 4:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m.). The work involves standing at machines, handling materials, and performing precise cutting and kitting tasks while adhering to established safety and quality procedures.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Newport, WA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 – $22.00/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 Newport,WA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 20, 2026.

About Aerotek

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

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.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.