Team Lead/Trainer (Molding)

Team Lead/Trainer (Molding) 

Work Mode: Onsite

Location:  Casa Grande, AZ

Opportunity

We are growing! Kohler has opened a new 1 million-square-foot manufacturing facility on 200 acres in the industrial corridor of Casa Grande, AZ.  We are looking for passionate talent to join our team.  This role will be based at our Casa Grande facility will work fully onsite. 

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary with annual merit increases
• Wide array of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, wellness incentives, and maternity/parental leave
• 401(k) savings plan
• Company-funded pension plan with vesting after 5 years of service
• Career advancement opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and employee discounts

What We’re Looking For:

As a Team Leader (Molding) for Kohler Co., you will be an ambassador of the Kohler brand and the Vikrell product line.  In this role, you will be responsible for training all new Molding Operator associates on the essential functions of the role.  You will function as a role model in safely, responsibly, and efficiently performing the role, the quality inspection, lifting, packaging, and stacking of Vikrell products, such as bathtubs, shower wall sets, and shower floor pieces.  You will autonomously assign and perform housekeeping & 5S work throughout every shift and direct your team members to do the same.  You will work 8-hour shifts for 5 days and work will include sitting, standing, bending, twisting, and lifting.   You will be an ideal candidate if you have a natural work ethic, sense of urgency and enjoy training and creating a highly functioning team.

Your Job Duties:

• Properly, effectively, and enthusiastically train new Molding Operator associates on all essential functions of the SMC Operator role
• Constantly and consistently coach and mentor less tenured Molding Operators
• Conduct daily placement and direction of associates in the work area
• Ensure the automated cut-and-stack robot is properly and accurately removing Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) from the storage container box and stacking on the appropriate section of equipment
• Ensure that robot removes molded SMC parts from the press within set time parameters
• Responsible for and on-call to assist anytime the press or automation stops cycling
• Responsible for correctly and efficiently setting up and maintaining bander/clip machines equipment
• Ensure the correct Bill of Materials (BoM) and labels match the production order
• Maintain the cleanliness of the area mold cavity, keeping it free of all foreign material and residue and ensuring that the press does not close on a foreign object
• Conduct “deflashing”, as needed, of molded parts and position those parts for transportation to next operation
• Inspect molded parts, mark defects, record defect types on record sheet, and place required identification on parts
• Carry defective parts (scrap) to the rework area and document, as required
• Complete required records and reports including, but not limited to, keeping an accurate production record on the quality of each molded part taken from the press
• Ensure that all personnel are clear of the press before activating it
• Maintain assigned hand tools such as drills, sanders, files, etc.
• Assist in packaging and assembly of molded parts
• Assemble cartons and their components (Styrofoam, plastic caps, banders, etc.)
• Assist in ordering all necessary direct material supplies from the warehouse
• Strive to attain and maintaining established standards of productivity, quality, safety, and good housekeeping in your assigned area on every shift
• Operate materials handling equipment according to plant safety rules and regulations
• Exercise informal corrective discipline in a positive and coaching manner, as needed
• Work in a safe and orderly manner and practice good 5S and housekeeping at all times
• Relieve team members for lunch, personal periods, and absenteeism
• Perform other related duties consistent with the nature of the job, as directed by the Supervisor or Management
• Complete and maintain training on all applicable SOPs, LOPs, policies and procedures

Skills/Requirements

What You’ll Need to Bring to the Table:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• High school diploma/GED equivalent required
• Previous experience as a Team Leader, Trainer, or Supervisor with a strong work ethic and overall positive demeanor
• Ability to work 8-, 10-, or 12-hour shifts while sitting, standing, bending, twisting, and lifting
• The flexibility to change shifts as the plant moves into future phases of production and operability
• A positive, adaptable, hard-working, and patient mindset
• A willingness to help with activities that may be outside of your job scope, especially as plant operations transition from the construction/set-up phase to the final “go-live” phase

It’s a Bonus if You Also:

• Have previous experience in a manufacturing operator or production line operator role
• Have previous experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment
• Have a natural ability to problem solve and continuously improve safety, quality, and productivity

Why Work at Kohler Co.?

Kohler Co.'s mission is to contribute to a higher level of gracious living for those who are touched by our products and services. We understand that it takes investment in our associates’ development to make that happen.  So, we offer ongoing investment in each individual’s personal development and the opportunity to collaborate with others across functions and roles at Kohler.  

In addition to the investment in your development, Kohler offers a benefits package including a competitive salary, health, vision, dental, 401(k) with company matching, and more!

*Important update for candidates applying to roles within Kohler Energy, including Power Systems, Engines, Home Energy, Kohler Uninterruptible Power, Clarke Energy, Curtis Instruments, and Heila Technologies.  

On November 6, Kohler Co. announced the strategic decision to establish Kohler Energy as a separate, independent business with Platinum Equity as the majority investment partner. Kohler will continue to stay invested in the Energy business following the closing and remains committed to supporting the acceleration of long-term growth strategies for both organizations. Talent and operational transition plans are underway, and Kohler Co. and Platinum Equity expect the agreement to close in the first half of 2024.Thank you for your interest in joining our growing team as we embark on the next phase of growth!

About Us

Beyond the competitive benefits and compensation, Kohler proudly offers a rich history, steeped in creativity and a commitment to our associates and communities.  We invite you to learn more about our culture and company at .

It is Kohler’s policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified personnel in all job classifications without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.  If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact .  Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.  

We invite you to learn more about equal employment opportunity by reviewing the Federal and the .