Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Knob Worker
💰 $32,000 - $50,000
ManufacturingAssemblyIndustrial ProductionQuality Control
🎯 Role Definition
A Knob Worker is responsible for manufacturing, assembling, finishing, and inspecting various types of knobs for furniture, appliances, machinery, and industrial equipment. This role ensures high-quality production, precise measurements, and adherence to safety and manufacturing standards. Knob Workers operate machinery, apply finishing techniques, and collaborate with team members to maintain efficient production workflows.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Production Assistant
- Assembly Line Worker
- Machine Operator
Advancement To:
- Senior Knob Worker
- Assembly Line Supervisor
- Manufacturing Team Lead
Lateral Moves:
- Quality Control Technician
- Finishing and Coating Specialist
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Operate machines for cutting, shaping, drilling, and molding knobs from wood, metal, plastic, or composite materials.
- Assemble multi-part knobs, ensuring alignment, fit, and functionality.
- Inspect raw materials for defects, quality, and suitability for production.
- Apply finishing techniques such as polishing, painting, coating, or plating to improve appearance and durability.
- Measure and verify dimensions using calipers, micrometers, and gauges to meet specifications.
- Maintain consistent production output while adhering to quality standards and timelines.
- Package finished knobs according to client or company specifications.
- Maintain and clean machinery, tools, and workstations to ensure safe operations.
- Troubleshoot minor equipment issues and report major malfunctions to supervisors.
- Monitor production processes to detect deviations or quality issues.
- Collaborate with design teams to implement modifications or custom specifications.
- Maintain inventory of raw materials, components, and finished products.
- Follow safety procedures, including proper handling of sharp tools, chemicals, and machinery.
- Assist in the training of new assembly line or production staff.
- Record production metrics, defect rates, and maintenance logs for management review.
- Coordinate with other departments such as shipping, inventory, and quality assurance.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce waste.
- Handle custom orders and ensure proper execution of specifications.
- Conduct minor repairs or adjustments on defective knobs to meet quality standards.
- Ensure compliance with environmental regulations regarding waste disposal and chemical handling.
Secondary Functions
- Support documentation of production processes, quality checklists, and safety protocols.
- Assist in research and development for new knob designs, materials, and finishes.
- Participate in team meetings to provide feedback and suggest process improvements.
- Help implement lean manufacturing or workflow optimization initiatives.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- Proficiency in operating machining, drilling, molding, and shaping equipment.
- Knowledge of materials including metal, wood, plastic, and composites.
- Ability to perform assembly and fitting of multi-component knobs.
- Competence in finishing techniques such as polishing, coating, plating, and painting.
- Familiarity with precision measuring tools and quality inspection methods.
- Basic mechanical troubleshooting and maintenance of production equipment.
- Understanding of manufacturing standards and tolerances.
- Ability to read technical drawings and specifications.
- Experience with packaging and inventory management.
- Knowledge of workplace safety regulations and chemical handling procedures.
Soft Skills
- Attention to detail and focus on quality.
- Strong organizational skills and time management.
- Teamwork and collaboration with production and design teams.
- Problem-solving and adaptability in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Effective communication skills for reporting and training purposes.
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
Preferred Education:
- Vocational or technical training in manufacturing, machining, or industrial production.
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Industrial Technology
- Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range:
- 0–3 years in assembly, manufacturing, or industrial production.
Preferred:
- Prior experience in manufacturing knobs, small components, or furniture hardware production.