Polisher Trainer Elroy

Revision Date: 11/13/2024
Department: Varies FLSA: Hourly Non-Exempt

At Wabash, Polisher Trainers are responsible for developing, instructing, and mentoring new and existing polishers to ensure they meet company quality, safety, and performance standards. This role focuses on hands-on skill development, training consistency, and quality craftsmanship across polishing and finishing processes used in manufacturing stainless steel, aluminum, and carbon steel products.

The Polisher Trainer works closely with production, quality, and safety teams to train employees on grinding, buffing, blending, and finishing techniques, ensuring all polishers understand and follow Wabash's standards for excellence.

- Conduct hands-on training sessions for new and existing polishers on proper grinding, sanding, buffing, and blending techniques.
- Demonstrate safe use and maintenance of polishing tools and equipment, ensuring compliance with all company safety and PPE requirements.
- Train team members to recognize surface defects, weld burns, and imperfections and to apply the correct methods to achieve required finishes.
- Evaluate polishers' skills and provide ongoing feedback and coaching to improve quality and efficiency.
- Assist in administering skill assessments and qualification testing to verify proficiency levels.
- Collaborate with supervisors and quality inspectors to identify areas for additional training or process improvement.
- Help update and maintain standard work instructions and training documentation for polishing procedures.
- Reinforce Wabash's safety culture and ensure trainees understand and follow EH&S policies.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe training area and workspace.
- May perform production polishing when required to demonstrate techniques or meet training goals.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support department and company objectives.

- Electrical and pneumatic grinders
- Buffers and sanders
- Flap wheels and belts
- Stone grinders and peening tools
- Hoists and lifting devices
- Respirators, ADF or PAPR hoods, and other PPE
- Measuring devices and inspection tools

- Strong communication and leadership skills; ability to clearly explain and demonstrate techniques.
- High School diploma or GED equivalent preferred.
- Must be a Level 2 Polisher with advanced knowledge of Wabash finishing standards.
- Must have the ability to train and coach others effectively.
- Strong working knowledge of polishing and finishing techniques for stainless steel and aluminum.
- Ability to interpret blueprints, specifications, and standard operating procedures.
- Must have the ability to troubleshoot quality and surface issues.
- Computer literacy for recording training and qualification data preferred.
- Excellent attendance and teamwork required.

Experience as a polisher, grinder, or finisher in a manufacturing setting is required. Previous experience as a trainer, lead, or mentor is strongly preferred.

Wabash provides initial onboarding and trainer development for new Polisher Trainers to ensure consistency in instruction, evaluation, and documentation.

- Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Excellent Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
- 401(k) with Company Match
- Tuition Reimbursement Program

Work is performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, noise, fumes, dust, and vibration. Safety awareness and compliance with PPE requirements are essential. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Polisher Trainers regularly stand, walk, bend, kneel, and handle tools for extended periods. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and work in confined spaces. Good hand-eye coordination, balance, and visual accuracy are required to demonstrate and assess polishing techniques.

- Demonstrates patience and effective communication when teaching new skills.
- Identifies training needs and provides constructive, respectful feedback.
- Takes initiative, follows through on commitments, and promotes a culture of learning and safety.
- Shares technical knowledge to improve overall team performance.
- Adapts to shifting priorities and production demands.
- Plans, organizes, and documents training to meet department goals.

- Embrace Diversity and Inclusion - Solicit and respect the input of others, celebrate differences, and promote inclusiveness.
- Seek to Listen - Listen actively to reach the best solution and make informed decisions.
- Always Learn - Strive for continuous improvement; never settle for the status quo.
- Be Authentic - Show honesty, energy, and grit in everything you do.
- Win Together - Collaborate and communicate effectively across teams to succeed as One Wabash.

Wabash is committed to providing equal employment opportunity to all associates and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other protected status under applicable law.