Cable Operator (Temp to Hire)

The Cable Operator is a manufacturing position at Data Guide Cable within our wire and cable production environment in Gardner, Massachusetts. This role is responsible for operating cabling equipment used to assemble multiple insulated conductors into finished cable constructions while supporting safe, efficient, and high-quality production. The Cable Operator follows work orders, engineering specifications, and quality standards and works closely with lead operators, supervisors, and quality personnel to maintain proper cable geometry, alignment, and overall product integrity. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on manufacturing work, takes pride in producing quality products, and wants to grow their skills within the wire and cable industry.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the setup, start-up, and shutdown of cabling production lines following standard operating procedures.
• Operate cabling equipment including payoffs, cablers, binders, fillers, and take-up systems.
• Read, understand, and follow work orders, setup sheets, and production documentation.
• Load, stage, and verify correct materials such as insulated conductors, fillers, binders, and reels prior to production.
• Monitor cabling parameters including line speed, tension, lay length, and conductor alignment during operation.
• Perform basic machine adjustments under the guidance of senior operators or supervisors.
• Inspect in-process and finished cable for defects such as improper lay, conductor misalignment, insulation damage, or dimensional variation.
• Use measuring instruments including micrometers, calipers, diameter tape, and gauges to verify product specifications.
• Accurately complete production reports, quality checks, and material traceability documentation.
• Assist with reel changes, material changeovers, and job transitions as required.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the work area in accordance with 5S and housekeeping standards.
• Communicate process issues, equipment concerns, or quality problems to the cabling lead or manufacturing supervisor.

Qualifications

• Mechanical aptitude with interest in industrial machinery and production environments.

• Ability to follow written and verbal work instructions accurately.

• Dependable attendance and punctuality.

• Ability to work rotating shifts, overtime, weekends, and holidays as required by business needs.

• Attention to detail with a strong focus on product quality and workmanship.

• Basic math skills for measurements, calculations, and recording production data.

• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a manufacturing environment.

• Basic troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

• Good organizational and time-management skills.

• Effective communication skills.

• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 75 pounds with or without assistance.

• Frequent bending, reaching, and manual handling of materials and reels.

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with noise, heat, and industrial materials.