Manufacturing Technician

Stoughton Trailers is a trusted, industry leading trailer manufacturer with strong Wisconsin roots and a focus on automation, innovation, safety, and manufacturing excellence. Our advanced manufacturing systems are critical to achieving production targets, maintaining quality, and supporting future growth.

Position Details 🕒 Schedule: Friday-Sunday from 5:00 AM-5:00 PM & Friday-Sunday from 5:00 PM-5:00 AM

💼 Shift: Weekend 1st & Weekend 2nd

⏱️ Overtime: Required as business needs

What You’ll Do - You will lead advanced manufacturing operations, support production teams, and ensure equipment reliability, efficiency, and safety.

Advanced Manufacturing Equipment Leadership

• Ensure automated manufacturing equipment is operational and production‑ready at start of shift
• Navigate and operate HMI controls for robotic and automated systems
• Lead troubleshooting of part fit‑up, system function, and machine performance issues
• Assist system teams with loading parts and assemblies into automated lines
• Communicate equipment status and issues with Line Leads and Production Supervisors
• Coordinate technical support needs with Engineers, Maintenance, and vendors

Programming, Setup & Technical Support

• Lead programming, operation, and maintenance of assigned manufacturing equipment
• Troubleshoot machine programming, logic, and function issues
• Set up and operate specified machining centers and automated systems
• Work from CAD models, solid models, and blueprints
• Program, validate, and support new products, prototypes, and R&D parts
• Engage external suppliers or OEMs when required to resolve complex issues

Production Support & Continuous Improvement

• Monitor and report key performance indicators (KPIs), including:

• On‑time delivery

• Quality

• Takt time

• Machine utilization

• Support adherence to production schedules

• Conduct quality checks of parts and assemblies

• Perform time studies, parts analysis, and productivity evaluations

• Recommend and implement process, programming, and equipment improvements

• Optimize production efficiency by adjusting machine settings and workflows

Training, Leadership & Collaboration

• Train new production employees on equipment operation and system functionality
• Provide ongoing technical guidance to tenured production personnel
• Facilitate operator preventive maintenance tasks and escalate issues as needed
• Assist Machine Operators with equipment handling and setup
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations, and Maintenance teams
• Maintain accurate equipment logs and documentation

Safety, Maintenance & Professional Expectations

• Perform all work in a safe, efficient, timely, accurate, and highly productive manner
• Follow all company policies, procedures, and safety requirements
• Perform minor repairs and report breakdowns promptly
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe work areas
• Wear required PPE and comply with all regulations
• Maintain dependable attendance and support mandatory overtime
• Perform other duties as assigned

Education What You Bring -

• High school diploma required
• Associate degree in a focused technology field preferred, but not required

Experience & Certifications

• Experience in advanced manufacturing, automation, or machine operations
• Robotics or programming certifications (preferred, not required)
• Welding certification (preferred, not required)
• Crane certification

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong experience with hand tools and measuring devices

• Intermediate troubleshooting and diagnostic skills

• Experience operating or supporting:

• Laser cutting systems

• Automated bending/forming cells

• Robotics and robotic welding systems

• Mechatronic systems

• Experience with CAD and production programming software

• Knowledge of digital manufacturing tools (OEE, condition monitoring, smart technology)

• Intermediate computer skills

• Intermediate understanding of electrical and hydraulic systems

• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, including:

• Welding and assembly

• Cutting, forming, and part fit‑up

• Mechanical clamping systems

• Basic math skills for inspection and measurement

• Ability to operate overhead and jib cranes with hoists

• Strong safety mindset

• Strong communication skills and ability to lead and train others

• Proven team player with leadership capability

Training & Development

• TRUMPF University training
• Advanced Robotic Programming with Arc Welding
• Ongoing technical and safety training

Work Environment & Physical Expectations This position requires the ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation . Work is performed in a manufacturing environment and requires standing for extended periods, repetitive lifting and loading of parts up to 50 lbs , wearing required PPE, and working around automated equipment. Overtime may be required. Additional details are outlined in the applicable Physical Demands Checklist .

Why This Role Matters - The Manufacturing Technician II is a key contributor to Stoughton Trailers’ advanced manufacturing capabilities and production reliability . By leading equipment operation, training others, solving complex technical issues, and optimizing processes, this role helps drive efficiency, maintain quality, and support continuous improvement. It serves as a critical progression step toward senior manufacturing, automation, or engineering support roles.