Prototype Technician

Imagine a company that recognizes excellence in not only the products it sells, but also in its employees. R.S. Hughes Company, Inc. is that company. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of quality and professionalism - and we treat our employees like the valuable assets they are.

Since 1959, Saunders has been proudly serving our customers with an exceptional level of personalized customer care that just can't be beat. We specialize in providing our customers with solutions that are tailored to each of their specific needs. Thanks to our innovative and diversified manufacturing team, we can provide die-cutting, laminating, slitting, packaging, assembly, and other manufacturing solutions to our customers at highly competitive industry rates.

We understand that the needs of our customers are constantly evolving. As demands from our customers grew, we knew we needed to evolve ourselves. So, we partnered with R.S. Hughes, which has enabled us to better serve each and every one of our customers. Thanks to this partnership, we can provide our customers with more options for custom-cut materials, furthering our solution finding capabilities. In addition to competitive salaries and benefits, we offer an environment that asks you to make a difference. We value hard work and common sense, and we consistently reward those that exemplify these traits. If you're looking for a great team to grow with and if you are willing to embrace the challenges of being expected to be the best, we welcome you to come join the R.S. Hughes Company, Inc. team!

Position Description

The Prototype Technician works alongside the production and engineering teams to help ensure that new business opportunities are onboarded, routed, and produced in the most effective and efficient manner possible. Exhibiting a very high skill level, the Prototype Technician will be able to effectively and efficiently operate every piece of equipment onsite. While this role typically involves execution within production workstations and corresponding processes such as set up alongside other Machine Operators, the Prototype Technician also has a high degree of autonomy and input with regards to experimenting with various materials, processes, tools, etc. within the scope of prototype projects. The position plays a critical role in supporting accurate quoting, streamlined production, and thoughtful process mapping. The successful candidate will have strong mechanical skills, exceptional communication skills, and must be able to proactively resolve production challenges as necessary. This role is expected to adhere to all company policies and safety protocols.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

• Assesses proposed designs and provides production-minded feedback to drive further refinement.
• Aids in evolving client designs to prototype parts through innovative product development methods.
• Supports cross-functional new business onboarding through the manufacture of protype client designs, refining and testing for manufacturability, reliability, cost effectiveness and profitability.
• Continuously engages with the sales, production, engineering, and project teams on new applications.
• Assists with the evaluation of defective materials received from vendors and communicates feedback as needed.
• Safety and Compliance: Maintain a safe and healthy work environment by following standards, procedures, and complying with legal regulations, implementing 5S methodology and other manufacturing principles.
• Machine Setup: thoroughly understands machine standards and general manufacturing practices to run an efficient production cycle in accordance with instructions and required job specifications.
• Work Order Review: Reviews work orders/production schedules to determine specifications and ensure the proper setup sequence, such as materials to be used, locations of cutting lines, or dimensions and tolerances.
• Machine Adjustment: Tests and adjusts necessary controls to regulate machine speeds and actions.
• Fixture Installation: Installs, aligns, and locks specified punches, dies, cutting blades, or other fixtures in rams or beds of machines using gauges, templates, feelers, shims, and hand tools.
• Operation Monitoring: Monitor machine operation during production runs and record operational data.
• Quality Control: Measure all completed and in-process workpieces to verify conformance based on established standards or specifications using calipers, micrometers, templates, or rulers.
• Defect Correction: Routinely perform quality checks on all completed workpieces to certify they meet the highest quality standards; examine for defects and make corrections as necessary (e.g., damaged edges or disfigured surfaces).
• Maintenance: Proactively perform machine maintenance, upkeep, cleaning, and lubrication.
• Productivity: Maintain acceptable productivity standards while minimizing raw material waste.
• Additional Duties: Perform other job duties as assigned.

Education/Certification/Licenses

• HS Diploma or GED Equivalent (Required)
• At least 7+ years' experience in a Senior level role in a manufacturing/ production environment Required.
• Demonstrated experience with rotary or flatbed presses, slitters, rewinders, choppers, Zund digital cutters, and laser tables Required.
• Solid understanding in design for manufacturing methodology and practical experience in application Required.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD or Rhino CAD programs Required.
• English language capabilities (verbal/ written / computer) Required.
• 3 party production and/or quality certifications Preferred.

Physical Requirements

• This job operates in a manufacturing environment. This role routinely uses standard manufacturing equipment, as well as standard office equipment such as computers and phones.
• Repetitive use of hands/dexterity to handle and control various manufacturing related tools/controls.
• Standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Operating machinery and/or power tools for prolonged periods.
• Must be able to ascend and descend ladders, scaffolds, and stairs.
• Must be able to work in confined spaces and in proximity to loud equipment.
• Must be able to lift/carry/push/pull up to 50 lbs.
• Close and distant vision, accurate color perception, and peripheral vision are critical.