Tow Motor Operator
A tow motor operator in a stamping company is responsible for safely and efficiently moving materials, such as metal coils, blanks, dies, and finished parts, throughout the facility to support the stamping production process. This role is vital for maintaining workflow between the warehouse, production lines, and shipping/receiving areas.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Material Handling: Load metal coils or sheets into the press area, transport finished product skids to shipping or storage, and manage scrap material.
- Loading and Unloading: Load and unload delivery trucks and trailers using the tow motor or other powered industrial equipment (e.g., clamp trucks, walkies).
- Inventory Management: Organize stock in designated internal and external storage areas and ensure all materials and products are properly tagged and weighed for accurate record-keeping.
- Equipment Operation: Masterfully operate various types of tow motors/forklifts (sit-down, stand-up, etc.) and perform routine pre-shift inspections to ensure the equipment is in good working condition. Report any mechanical issues or damage immediately.
- Safety and Compliance: Adhere strictly to all established safety protocols and plant rules, including wearing all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
- Coordination: Coordinate closely with the shipping, receiving, and production departments to ensure a smooth and efficient workflow.
- Quality Assurance Support: Visually check containers for damage and report any quality issues or non-conforming parts observed during material movement.
Required Skills and Qualifications
- Certification: Current certification or proven ability to safely operate a tow motor/forklift is required (often necessitates OSHA certification).
- Experience: Prior experience in a manufacturing or warehouse environment, ideally within a stamping or heavy machinery setting, is often preferred.
- Skills:
- Strong attention to detail and spatial awareness to maneuver equipment safely in high-traffic industrial environments.
- Ability to read and interpret work orders and safety regulations.
- Basic mathematical proficiency for inventory and record-keeping purposes.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment.
- Physical Demands: The role may require physical stamina, including standing for extended periods, bending, lifting (up to 65 lbs), pushing, and pulling in a noisy industrial environment with exposure to dust and potential temperature variation.