Process Technician - 1st Shift

Apogee Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: APOG), was founded in 1949 and is headquartered in Minneapolis, MN.  Apogee is a growing, profitable company with annual revenues approaching $1.5 billion.  We provide distinctive metal and glass solutions for enclosing commercial buildings, and glass and acrylic solutions for picture framing and display applications. To learn more visit: www.apog.com.

The Apogee Performance Surfaces segment has grown from $100M to $200M in revenue through a recent acquisition.  Our brands in the Performance Surfaces portfolio develop and manufacture high-performance coated materials for a variety of applications, including wall décor, museums, graphic design, architectural interiors, digital display, and industrial flooring markets.  We are the global leader in anti-reflective, conservation grade electrostatic dissipative, high-definition, and abrasion resistance coatings, that provide protection, innovative designs, and exceptional durability.

Purpose and Scope:

Individuals in this position are part of a team that is responsible for the daily operation of the coating line production system.  This includes system control and determining and adjusting process parameters.  Also responsible for assisting in development of work instructions, performing audits to work instructions, training and certifying team members and assisting in special projects. Safely performs all job functions and utilizes proactive safety concepts, while contributing to a continuous improvement environment.  Participates in safety trainings and meetings, and encouraged to engage in other safety-related functions such as 1st responders, training presenters, safety committee, etc.

Expected Outcomes/Job Functions:

Responsibilities:

Operate gas system, power supplies, drive system, vent and pumping systems. This includes, but not limited to: Operate all testing equipment required for the position.  Be able to check calibrations and troubleshoot instruments.  Prepare samples for experiments and long term environmental testing. Conduct tune-in and design control of all Tru Vue optical coatings. Monitor yields and work with other Process Technicians, Quality Assurance Technicians, Supervisor, and support staff to trouble-shoot defects and minimize yield loss. Work closely with and rotate through duties with other Process Technicians and Production staff as appropriate to assure customer satisfaction. Record information at established intervals.  Maintain detailed and organized data records. Document and monitor procedures and processes to eliminate variation and promote sharing of knowledge. Assist in development of work instructions, perform regular audits to these work instructions, train and certify team members and assist in special projects. Assist with troubleshooting of entire system. Troubleshoot and perform work on various process equipment (vacuum gauges, turbo pumps, power supplies, cathodes, leak checking equipment, etc.). Participate in team problem solving and process improvement meetings. Interact and support the team in root cause analysis of troubleshooting and quality issues.  Participate in regularly scheduled maintenance of vacuum system. Support continuous improvement and elimination of waste and variation in processes using established improvement processes.  Assist in implementation of productivity improvements.  Cross train in related functions and assist others in obtaining cross-functional capabilities. Perform similar or related duties as necessary to the success of Tru Vue, Inc.

The above responsibilities represent the major tasks assigned to incumbents in this job title.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all tasks.  Therefore, on occasion, incumbents may perform other related tasks.

Education and Experience: (minimum requirements)

Associates or Bachelor’s degree in technical field desirable.  Two years’ work experience in a manufacturing environment preferred. Demonstrated ability to use analytical equipment and computers. Familiarity with the operation and control of a vacuum system.  Process Control experience is a plus. Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma Quality systems preferred.

Attributes:

1.   Demonstrated ability for detail orientated work and organization.

2.   Strong math aptitude.

3.   Computer skills and working knowledge of Excel, Word, and Outlook and the ability to maintain electronic quality records.

4.   Demonstrated ability to work and cross train in a team environment.

5.   Ability and willingness to lead and motivate others in a positive manner, including coaching others to follow work instructions, achieve standards and reach team goals.

6.   Ability and willingness to learn, understand, and follow documented work procedures.

7.   High sensitivity to quality and on time delivery of materials.

8.   Ability and willingness to learn and understand all production jobs. 

9.   Sensitive to other cultures/backgrounds, able to work in a multi-cultural workplace.

Working Conditions:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to allow individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This job is primarily performed in an office environment.  The noise level in the office is generally moderate.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently interacts with individuals on the plant floor, near moving mechanical parts.  The noise level in the production environment is usually loud.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  For specific lifting, pushing and pulling thresholds for this position, please see HR.

While performing the functions of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, and hear.  The employee is frequently required to use hands and fingers to feel, handle, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.  The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds.  Vision requirements include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus.

Communication Expectations:

The position routinely requires verbal and written communication in English in order to complete the daily business requirements.  Verbal communications include, but are not limited to: team meetings to discuss daily department requirements, work instructions to team members, presentations to management or customers, project meetings with peers and management, communications with peers and management, and safety instructions and training.  Written communications include, but are not limited to: department paperwork, projects updates, safety walkthroughs, purchase orders, continuous improvement projects, and communications with peers, customers, and management.

Job Location:  Faribault, MN

Hourly Rate: Starting from $22.50

Schedule: 6am-2:30pm Monday- Friday

Equal Opportunity Employer

Our Benefits

We care about and invest in our employees. We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their well-being and foster professional development. Here is a glimpse of what you can look forward to if you join our team.

• Competitive Benefits Package for employees and their dependents (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability)

• Incentive Plans

• 401(k) with employer contribution and match

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan with employer match

• Paid Time Off (Vacation and Sick Time)

• Paid Holidays

• Tuition Reimbursement Program

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Wellness Program

• Training and Career Progression

Apogee and our brands are an Equal Opportunity Employer.