Punch Press Operator – 1st Shift

Donaldson is committed to solving the world’s most complex filtration challenges. Together, we make cool things. As an established technology and innovation leader, we are continuously evolving to meet the filtration needs of our changing world. Join a culture of collaboration and innovation that matters and a chance to learn, effect change, and make meaningful contributions at work and in communities. ​

The Punch Press Operator specializes in stamping metal liners and blanks with precision, meeting customer requirements, print specifications, and production standards. This role operates and maintains punch press equipment safely and efficiently to ensure high-quality parts are produced on time. Success in this position requires attention to detail, a strong safety focus, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. This is a 1st shift position with hours from 6:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. and is located on-site at our manufacturing facility in Greeneville, TN.

Roles Responsibilities:

• Set up and operate punch presses for various metal types, performing changeovers as needed.
• Use hand tools and mechanical knowledge to adjust equipment for proper operation.
• Conduct daily equipment inspections and perform basic preventive maintenance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve minor machine or tooling issues to minimize downtime.
• Safely and efficiently produce stamped parts that meet blueprint, route sheet, and customer specifications.
• Complete first article inspections using precision measurement tools and techniques.
• Monitor production output to ensure quality and quantity standards are consistently met.
• Accurately complete all required documentation, including labor cards, production reports, and quality records.
• Follow all safety, DOT, HAZMAT, and environmental policies, including proper use of PPE.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in alignment with 6S standards.
• Participate in continuous improvement (CI) and lean manufacturing initiatives.
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors to support production flow.
• Perform cycle counting duties to maintain inventory accuracy.
• Support cross-training and assist other departments when needed.
• Work scheduled overtime, including weekdays and weekends, as required.
• Perform additional tasks or projects as assigned by leadership.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED, plus at least one (1) year of relevant manufacturing experience, or two (2) years of related experience in lieu of education.
• Ability to safely perform a variety of tasks in a fast-paced environment, including operating forklifts, hoists, and die handlers.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints and routing sheets.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
• Strong manual dexterity and mechanical aptitude to perform job responsibilities effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to work constructively and collaboratively with all department and plant employees.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team toward shared production goals.
• Adaptable to change and capable of handling additional tasks as assigned.
• Ability to successfully complete OSHA-required training, including lockout/tagout (LOTO) and forklift certification.
• Maintain a consistent pattern of regular and predictable attendance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience operating punch press machinery or similar metal stamping equipment.
• Experience performing first article inspections and using precision measurement tools.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement (CI) processes.
• Prior experience working in a 3rd-shift production environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot minor equipment issues.

Immigration Sponsorship Not Available:

• Applicants for this position must be currently and legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future sponsorship (e.g., H-1B, J-1, F-1, CPT, OPT, etc.).
• Donaldson will not offer immigration sponsorship or assume sponsorship of an employment visa for this position.
• International relocation or remote work arrangements outside of the U.S. will not be considered.

Keywords: Punch Press, Metal Stamping, Machine Operation, Blueprint Reading, Preventive Maintenance, Quality Control

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability and Veterans

Employment opportunities for positions in the United States may require use of information