Cell Technician

Job Overview

Take full ownership of an assigned production area, ensuring optimal equipment performance, resolving unplanned stops, and maintaining high product quality standards. The role involves understanding cell sequences, performing quality assurance actions, conducting preventive maintenance, documenting volume losses, complying with established processes, performing root cause analysis, supporting continuous improvement, ensuring backup equipment readiness, and managing assigned projects.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and operate production equipment and systems to meet daily quality and volume targets.
• Handle minor faults, restore basic sequence flow, and recover from sequence faults.
• Perform product kick-in or kick-out procedures when necessary to ensure quality assurance and initiate quality stops when required.
• Perform basic troubleshooting and component replacement using standard modular units, escalating complex issues as needed.
• Conduct visual and functional quality checks and maintain poka-yoke systems.
• Document shift handovers, downtime events, and quality issues.
• Perform visual inspections and preventive maintenance, including cleaning, lubrication, and parts replacement.
• Maintain order, cleanliness, and safety according to 5S and TPM principles.
• Support equipment readiness before and after shutdowns and weekend shifts.
• Participate in improvement activities to support uptime and efficiency.
• Ensure spare parts and backup systems are available and operational.
• Perform additional tasks and support projects as assigned.

Knowledge and Skills

• Basic knowledge of industrial AC/DC electricity, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems preferred.
• Ability to read technical documentation and standard work instructions.
• Ability to use hand, pneumatic, and electric tools for troubleshooting.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office and email.
• PLC/BUS systems, especially Siemens, strongly preferred.
• Robotics experience, especially KUKA, strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with welding and gluing processes preferred.
• Strong lean process engineering, communication, and problem-solving skills preferred.
• Willingness to work a three-shift model and travel locally for training.
• Required overtime as needed.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED and two years of automotive manufacturing experience required.
• Prior experience with automated systems or automotive body manufacturing preferred.
• A relevant certification or associate degree may substitute for the required experience.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job.

Mercedes-Benz Vans, LLC is committed to equal employment opportunity and an inclusive workplace. The Charleston production entity manufactures Sprinter vans for the U.S. and Canadian markets.