Hands-On Manufacturing Role Operating Specialized Production Equipment - Process Equipment Operator

Microwave Power Products (MPP) is seeking a Process Equipment Operator to operate and monitor equipment used to clean, prepare, and process components for manufacturing. You'll be responsible for equipment setup, process monitoring, quality inspections, and production documentation while helping ensure products meet demanding quality standards.

Pay Range: $20.00 - $23.00/hour
Location: Palo Alto, CA

At MPP, we design and manufacture advanced RF and microwave technologies that power critical applications across defense, aerospace, medical, industrial, scientific, and communications markets.

YOUR DAY-TO-DAY (Role Summary)

As a Process Equipment Operator, you will safely operate and monitor specialized wet blast and dry blast equipment used to clean, prepare, and process components for manufacturing. You'll follow established work instructions, inspect processed parts, monitor equipment performance, and complete production activities safely, efficiently, and accurately. Success in this role requires attention to detail, a commitment to quality, and the ability to follow documented manufacturing procedures while working in a fast-paced production environment. This is a hands-on role with direct impact on the quality and flow of manufacturing operations.

YOU WILL BE ACCOUNTABLE FOR (Responsibilities)

Equipment Operation & Production

• Operate wet blast and dry blast equipment to clean and prepare components, subassemblies, and tube assemblies.

• Set up and adjust equipment settings such as air pressure, water pressure, and process parameters to achieve required processing results.

• Monitor gauges, controls, and equipment indicators to ensure proper equipment performance throughout production runs.

Quality & Process Compliance

• Inspect parts before, during, and after processing to verify conformance with manufacturing requirements and quality standards.

• Read and follow production travelers, work instructions, process specifications, and safety procedures.

• Verify materials, tooling, and equipment readiness before beginning production activities.

Documentation & Team Support

• Accurately complete production records, logs, and other required documentation.

• Communicate equipment, quality, or process concerns to Production, Quality, and Engineering teams.

• Support cross-functional manufacturing activities and assist with additional production-related tasks as needed.

Equipment Care & Workplace Safety

• Perform routine cleaning, housekeeping, and basic preventative maintenance on assigned equipment.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

• Follow all safety requirements and properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE).

YOU ARE THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THIS JOB IF YOU HAVE THESE PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED.

• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.

• Ability to follow written work instructions, procedures, and safety requirements.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.

• 0-2 years of manufacturing, production, machine operation, industrial equipment, or related experience.

• Experience operating manufacturing equipment, industrial machinery, blasting equipment, or similar production processes.

• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to recognize equipment abnormalities or process issues.

• Experience working in a manufacturing, production, warehouse, or industrial environment.

• Good manual dexterity and ability to safely handle production materials and components.

What Will Help You Succeed

• Dependable work habits and strong attendance.

• Willingness to learn new equipment and manufacturing processes.

• Ability to work independently while also contributing to a team environment.

• Flexibility to work overtime or extended hours when business needs require additional production support.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Work is performed in a manufacturing environment with frequent exposure to industrial equipment and machinery.

• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, and other protective equipment as required.

• Frequently required to stand, walk, reach, bend, and monitor equipment throughout the workday.

• Must be able to safely lift, carry, and move materials in accordance with established safety guidelines.

• Regularly required to use hands and fingers to operate equipment, controls, and production tools.

• May occasionally work in controlled manufacturing or clean production environments.

• Must be able to work around loud machinery and production equipment.

This position may involve access to information subject to U.S. export control laws (ITAR/EAR). Access to certain controlled information may be limited to individuals who qualify as “U.S. persons” (generally U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and certain protected individuals). Non-U.S. persons may still apply; however to be eligible for the role, access to controlled information may require U.S. government authorization.

Applicants must be able to comply with applicable export control requirements. For security clearance position, the candidate must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Security Clearance as required, holding a security clearance is a plus.

WHAT WE OFFER

Pay range between $32 to $35/hour depending on experience

• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage

• Generous 401(k) match

• Commuter benefits within the Stanford Research Park

• Complimentary EV charging

• Paid time off and holidays

• Training and opportunities for skill development and growth

OUR WORKPLACE COMMITMENT

We value the unique and diverse skills, qualities, and backgrounds that each employee brings to MPP, and we respect each employee as an integral member of our growing team. MPP is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all current and prospective employees, as well as to promoting a culture of inclusion and respect for everyone. We celebrate the innovation that diversity creates in the work environment, and we recognize that each employee brings their own unique capabilities, experiences, and perspectives to the organization. It is this variety that adds value to our teams, as well as to our stakeholders. We welcome and encourage applicants to reach their full potential with us.

MPP is proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability or other applicable legally protected characteristics.