Employee Interview

I majored in mechanical engineering at a technical high school, where I learned the fundamentals of processing and design. Since I've loved making things since I was a child, I wanted to work in a job related to machine making in the future.

Amidst all this, I had the opportunity to hear a lecture at my school from a fellow graduate of the same technical high school who was working at Niigata Machine Techno. Hearing about the actual work and working environment there, I decided that I wanted to work for this company.

After being assigned to the Machinery Department in 2013, I transferred to the Sales Department in 2019 and worked in domestic sales for four years. Since then, I have been assigned to my current position in the International Sales Department.

In domestic sales, the main task is to schedule appointments with customers and trading companies, visit them, and gather information by inquiring about the economic situation and their future plans for purchasing machinery. Based on this information, the main task is to promote the products, submit quotations, and ultimately secure orders.

On the other hand, the International Sales Department deals with overseas customers, so most of the communication is done via email. Although the approach differs from domestic sales, the role remains the same: "to introduce the product and secure orders." Occasionally, we also guide customers who visit from overseas, offering them meals and sightseeing.

The products we handle are high-value items, and orders don't typically result from visits or inquiries on the same day. Therefore, even when we conduct promotional visits to potential customers, there are many cases where concrete consideration hasn't progressed.

However, precisely because these are high-value products, the accumulation of these daily sales activities is extremely important. And the joy of receiving an order as a result of carefully working on it over time is priceless.

8:30

Morning meeting in the management department, cleaning of the floor.

9:00

Checking emails and confirming inquiries from distributors regarding the machines.

10:00

Creating machine quotes and sales materials, etc.

12:00

lunch break

13:00

Sometimes we receive visitors from overseas.

15:00

Since it's difficult to meet in person overseas, we often hold meetings via the web.

17:00

I take an English conversation class at the company once a week.

18:00

Leaving

During high school, I studied electronics and information technology in the industrial department, so I've always wanted to work in an industrial field. Among the various companies I considered, Niigata Machine Techno seemed to offer an environment where I could utilize the knowledge I'd gained and further develop my skills.

Furthermore, the fact that it was within a 30-minute drive from my home, making it easy to commute and providing an environment where I could work for a long time, was a major attraction.

For these reasons, I felt that I could work in a stable environment while enhancing my expertise, and that's why I decided to join this company.

After joining the company, I initially worked in the machinery department for five years, specifically on the surface grinding line, where I operated a bed grinding machine. There, I gained an appreciation for the fascinating aspects of machining and acquired fundamental know-how.

After that, I moved to a sales position in my sixth year, and I'm currently in my ninth year in sales. In sales, I visit customers' factories, work with them to understand what kind of parts they want to process and what kind of machine tools they need, and then make proposals.

Furthermore, my experience working in the machinery department, where I was responsible for machining, allows me to communicate with customers from a practical, on-the-ground perspective, understanding things like "where in the machine tools the parts I was machining are used" and "what are the challenges in the machining process." This is a significant advantage.

Machine tools are very expensive products, so we can't sell them frequently. Therefore, the process of purchasing them usually involves numerous meetings with the customer and planning that takes several years. Taking the time to organize their requirements and make fine adjustments is a challenging part of the process.

However, that's precisely why, when we finally receive an order, we feel a great sense of fulfillment and think, "All the hard work was worth it."

Furthermore, sales positions allow us to speak directly with customers, giving us access to "real customer feedback" that is difficult to obtain in factory work. I feel that this feedback is not only useful for future product development but also contributes to my own personal growth.

8:45

Going to work

9:00

Sales morning meeting

9:30

Email check

10:00

Meeting with the client

12:00

lunch

13:00

Meeting with the client

17:45

Leaving

I majored in mechanical engineering at university, and after being assigned to a research lab, I had the opportunity to use machine tools such as milling machines to create experimental test pieces. There, I became fascinated by the process of machining, and gradually developed an interest in the machine tool industry.

As my job search progressed, I was deeply impressed by the warm personalities of the employees I met at Niigata Machine Techno's company information sessions and interviews. Furthermore, receiving a job offer so quickly was another factor that convinced me to join the company.

During the first three months after joining the company, I acquired fundamental skills through classroom lectures and on-the-job training.

Since July of my first year (now in my fifth year with the company), I have been working in the Mechanical Design Department, handling production design. My responsibilities include discussing the specifications of ordered machinery, considering special specifications, creating drawings, procuring parts, and answering questions during assembly. I collaborate with other departments to ensure that projects are completed on time.

Although my current job is not directly related to my research at university, I feel that the knowledge of mechanical engineering I gained as a student is proving very useful when reviewing drawings and considering problems during assembly and after delivery.

Before we can deliver the machinery, we need to have numerous meetings with the customer, and the preparation takes time and effort. That's why, when the machinery we've prepared is finally ready to ship, I truly feel that all the hard work was worth it.

We rarely have the opportunity to see machine tools themselves in our daily lives, but there are many products around us that our customers have made using those machines. When I see those products, I realize that my work is supporting the manufacturing industry, and it makes me proud.

8:10

Go to work, change clothes

8:30

Radio calisthenics, departmental morning meeting, TPM activities (cleaning, etc.)

8:45

Email confirmation, etc.

9:00

Design work (document creation, new project planning and arrangement, on-site inquiry response, etc.)

12:00

lunch

13:00

Design work (document creation, new project planning and arrangement, on-site inquiry response, etc.)

17:30

Leaving
(Sometimes I have to travel out of the prefecture for a day or more to discuss machine specifications.)

I majored in mechanical engineering in undergraduate school, and in graduate school, I moved away from mechanics for a while to work on developing control programs.

Later, during my job search, I focused on finding an environment where I could work comfortably for a long time, and attended information sessions for multiple companies. At the Niigata Machine Techno information session I attended, I felt that the workplace atmosphere suited me, and I thought I could work there with peace of mind.

Also, since I was good at English since my student days, the fact that the company had business dealings with overseas companies was a major attraction for me.

After joining the company, I've been working under the guidance of my seniors, designing covers for NC milling machines.

Furthermore, when the machines you designed are assembled at the company's factory, coordinating with internal departments is also an important part of the job, such as responding to various inquiries from the assembly staff.

Since I work in collaboration with colleagues and external design companies, I don't have to do everything on my own, which is reassuring. As the youngest member of the team, I don't hesitate to consult with my superiors and senior colleagues when I have questions.

When I was first assigned to the department, I was entrusted with design work, and I felt a strange sense of awe when I saw the parts I had drawn in the blueprints actually taking shape in the factory.

These days, I don't experience that kind of excitement as often, but when a machine is assembled without any problems—without any parts bumping into each other or interfering with its operation—there's still a great sense of accomplishment.

Another appealing aspect is the opportunity to experience daily growth in terms of knowledge.

When I first joined the company, I had very little knowledge about machine tools, and there were times when I couldn't communicate effectively with the assembly workers on the factory floor. However, as my understanding deepened through my work, I became able to communicate in a more specialized way, and I'm genuinely happy about that change.

8:30

Arrive at the office, check emails, and confirm the day's tasks.

8:45

Creating 3D CAD drawings for development machines, and providing on-site support for ordered machines.

12:00

Lunch break

13:00

Document preparation for parts procurement

15:00

Various meetings (with manufacturers, external design companies, etc.)

16:30

Continuing with document creation

17:30

Leaving work (overtime of 1-2 hours if there is urgent work)

At university, I studied the fundamentals of electrical control in the Faculty of Engineering. It was during that time that I learned about machining centers, which are "machines for making machines," and that's what sparked my interest in Niigata Machine Techno.

What particularly attracted me to this company was not only that I could utilize the knowledge I gained at university, but also that it is a company based in Niigata, where I live. I also liked that even if colleagues in different departments sit close together, creating an atmosphere where it's easy to ask questions and seek advice.

After joining the company, I started with a three-month training program. Because the training covers the fundamentals thoroughly, even those unsure of their specialized knowledge can work with confidence. Through this training, I myself was able to acquire a solid understanding of the basics and control systems of machine tools.

Since being assigned to this department, I have been in charge of control design for machine tools. Machine tools are essential equipment for accurately machining parts in our customers' factories. Because each customer has different requirements for "what kind of machining they want to do" and "what functions they need," I create ladder circuits, operation screen data, and machining programs to match those requirements.

We also work on tasks that reduce costs and make work easier, such as reviewing standard procurement items (known as "preparation") and revising standard electrical drawings.

I feel a great sense of accomplishment when the data I created works exactly as intended, as I adjust the necessary circuits and screen data to match the customer's specifications. I also feel happy when the customer confirms the actual operation and is satisfied with the result, thinking, "It worked!"

On the other hand, sometimes we have to create new data from scratch to accommodate special specifications. When I can use my past experience to smoothly complete tasks in such situations, I feel a sense of personal growth, which greatly motivates me for my next project.

8:30

Arrive at work, do radio calisthenics, clean up.

8:40

Check emails, confirm tasks for the day.

8:45

Machine data creation

12:00

Lunch break

13:00

Regular meetings, progress reports on work

14:00

Checking, verifying the operation of, and debugging the created machine data.

17:30

Leaving

I joined Niigata Machine Techno because I was attracted to the opportunity to be involved in almost every stage of the manufacturing process.

I majored in mechanical engineering at university, learning the fundamentals of design and manufacturing. During my job search, I participated in a factory tour of this company. After learning about their system of handling everything from design to assembly in-house, I decided to join the company.

Also, since I had been playing baseball since elementary school, the fact that the company had a soft baseball club was one of the factors that encouraged me to join the company.

After joining the company, I was assigned to the Machine Tool Applications Department.

Currently, we are involved in actually processing our customers' products and explaining how to use the machinery on-site after it has been installed.

There are still things I don't understand, but I proceed with my work while checking with my supervisor each time, so I feel confident in my work. Because it is a specialized field, I feel that I can absorb new knowledge every day and grow through my work.

The Applications Department is a department that has many opportunities to interact directly with customers.

When we actually process the customer's product or complete the on-site installation work, we can see the customer's reaction, which makes the job very rewarding.

We sometimes receive new requests on-site, and there are times when it's challenging to respond to them each time, but when we are able to meet expectations, we feel a great sense of accomplishment.

Furthermore, a major appeal of this job is that, in addition to creating tangible products, we receive direct feedback from customers regarding aspects such as operational accuracy.

8:30

Arrive at the office, check emails.

8:50

Arrangement of the tools and materials provided

12:00

lunch break

13:00

We process our customers' parts.

15:00

Preparation for the next step

17:30

leaving work
Overtime may be required as needed.

I was attracted to the fact that the company handles production entirely in-house, allowing me to be involved in a wide range of tasks rather than being limited to a specific process. I was also drawn to the environment where I could be involved in various processes and have an overview of the entire manufacturing process, as the work isn't too compartmentalized.

I majored in mechanical engineering at university, and through lectures on machining, I became interested in machine tools. Machine tools are "machines that create other machines," and they support the entire manufacturing process. I felt that this job would allow me to gain a wide range of knowledge and experience while being involved with machines that support society, so I decided to join the company.

For the first few years after being assigned to the department, I was responsible for tasks such as setting up materials to be processed, maintaining cutting tools, and preparing mounting jigs. Through actually working on parts processing, I learned the knowledge necessary for machining, including processing programs, cutting tools, and jigs.

While I continue to study, I am currently involved in a wide range of tasks, including improving production processes, jig fabrication, creating and testing machining programs, ordering jigs and tools, and drafting machining drawings. Building on the experience I gained on the factory floor, I have become involved in more processes and roles.

I feel a sense of accomplishment when the improvements I've been involved in to the production process take shape and I can see the effects firsthand. These improvements can range from shortening processing and work times to automating and standardizing tasks. I feel a real sense of accomplishment when I can see the effects in actual numbers or when I receive feedback from the workers on the factory floor.

I'm still inexperienced compared to my senior colleagues, and my efforts are mainly focused on small improvements, but I believe that these small improvements contribute to supporting the manufacturing process. Going forward, I want to continue improving my knowledge and skills so that I can make even more impactful improvements.

8:30

Arrive at the office, check emails and confirm the day's tasks.

8:45

Quotation and ordering of jigs and tools

9:00

Preparation of mounting fixtures, installation of materials to be adjusted.

12:00

Lunch break - lunch in the cafeteria

13:00

Testing the operation of a new processing program on production equipment.

16:30

Maintenance of cutting tools

17:00

Cleaning up and checking the schedule for the next day.

17:30

Leaving

I became interested in Niigata Machine Techno because, compared to other companies, the parts they handle are each larger, and I was attracted to the scale of their work. I thought that being involved in the processing of large parts would be very rewarding.

Another reason I decided to join the company was that it offers a good work-life balance, allowing me to work with a clear distinction between my work and private life. I wanted to be involved in manufacturing, making use of what I learned in the precision machining course at Niigata Techno School, so I decided to join the company.

Currently, I'm involved in parts machining using machine tools. As a team member, my main responsibilities include preparing for the next machining step by attaching parts and assembling jigs.

There are still many things I don't know, and I'm learning the job every day with advice from my seniors, but there are also many situations where I can put what I learned in school to good use, such as measurements and crane operations. I'm gradually increasing what I can do by using the knowledge I've learned on the job.

I feel a sense of accomplishment when I see the parts I helped process being actually assembled and realize that they will ultimately become part of a machine.

Furthermore, I can feel my own growth when my work speed increases or when I become able to think ahead and act accordingly. The gradual increase in what I can do is what makes my daily work rewarding.

The parts we handle are large, and the work can be challenging, but the sense of accomplishment when we complete a task is also great. I feel that the appeal of this job lies in being able to accumulate experience step by step while working with large parts.

8:30

Arrive at work and check the day's tasks.

8:45

Checking the work

9:00

Workpiece replacement

9:30

Workpiece centering and tightening

12:00

Lunch break

13:00

Change of setup

17:00

clean up

17:30

Leaving

I wanted to work for a company where I could utilize what I learned about machinery in high school, so I was looking for a job. In that context, I was attracted to Niigata Machine Techno because it manufactures and develops precision machinery and has high technical capabilities in the field of machine tools.

I decided to join the company because I felt it was an environment where I could build upon what I had learned and be involved in more specialized manufacturing.

After joining the company, I gained experience through various practical training programs, and currently I am in charge of assembling machine tools. In assembly work, I assemble machines from scratch and perform operational checks. Sometimes I deliver machines that I have adjusted myself to customers, which gives me a great sense of accomplishment.

I also share my past experiences with younger colleagues and offer advice. I feel that one of my important roles is not just assembling machinery, but also passing on experience and knowledge.

There is a great sense of fulfillment in knowing that the machines I adjust with my own hands ultimately support the creation of products that affect the lives of many people. It is in those moments that I feel that the work of finishing one machine in front of me is connected to manufacturing and society as a whole.

Furthermore, when we receive positive feedback from our customers, it makes us feel that our involvement in machine tools and manufacturing has been worthwhile. The fact that the work we've been involved in remains as a tangible product and that its value is recognized is what I find so appealing about this job.

8:30

Morning assembly, cleaning, and radio calisthenics

9:15

Functional checks, machine assembly, and adjustments on the day of the event.
(Checking and adjusting the device's operation, adjusting the program, etc.)

12:00

lunch break

13:00

Machine assembly and adjustment
(Checking and adjusting the device's operation, adjusting the program, etc.)

17:30

Leaving

When I first saw the machine tool manufacturing site during a factory tour, I was strongly drawn to its sheer scale and the power of the machines. Machine tools are also called "mother machines" and are the foundation of manufacturing that produces many products. I wanted to be involved in the creation of such machines myself.

Also, during my visit, I was very impressed by the sight of senior employees around my age adjusting the machinery. As a student, I thought they looked really cool, and the thought, "I want to be able to work like that too," was a major reason why I decided to join the company.

For over 10 years since joining the company, I was in charge of assembling and installing machinery. Currently, I have moved to a different department and am involved in service work, visiting customers' factories to repair machinery.

We perform repairs utilizing the skills we've cultivated in the assembly department, but some of the machines we're responsible for were manufactured before we were even born. Therefore, we approach our daily work not only by relying on our past experience but also by learning new knowledge.

We don't just focus on completing repairs; we also prioritize ensuring that the person in charge is satisfied with the process. We believe that building trust with our customers, which will lead to future business, is an important part of this job.

Because you'll be working in a different environment and with different machines every day, no two days are the same. It's a job where you can continue to grow as an engineer while making new discoveries.

The most rewarding part of my job is when customers express their gratitude. Our work mainly involves repairs, so we often enter job sites with machines that aren't working. When a machine stops, it means the customer's work also comes to a halt.

Since machine tools can operate even at night, any downtime represents a significant loss. When we successfully repair them and get the machines running again, hearing customers say "You saved us!" gives us a great sense of accomplishment.

Furthermore, in service jobs, not only technical skills but also building trust with customers is extremely important. I believe that being able to approach each job with sincerity so that customers think, "I'd like to ask for your services again next time," is one of the appealing aspects of this job.

8:30

Going to the office, meetings

9:00

Loading the necessary tools for the work, we depart for the client's location in a company vehicle.

10:00

Arriving at the customer's factory, greeting them, and explaining the details of the work.

10:30

Repair work begins (replacement of worn parts, precision adjustment, etc.)

12:00

lunch break

13:00

Work resumed

14:00

Confirmation of proper operation, meeting with the customer.

16:00

Return to the office, submit report, prepare for the next day.

17:30

Leaving

My desire to utilize the knowledge I gained in the mechanical engineering department of a technical high school and to make my passion for manufacturing my lifelong career is what led me to join this company.

I was strongly attracted to Niigata Machine Techno because of the opportunity to work not only domestically but also internationally in the future. I felt that it was an environment where I could steadily grow as an engineer while honing my own skills, so I decided to join the company.

For the first six years after joining the company, I was assigned to the assembly department, where I thoroughly learned the fundamentals of technology, from machine manufacturing to precise adjustments and on-site installation.

Since 2019, I have been working as a service engineer, visiting customer sites in the East Japan area. In addition to repairing malfunctions and performing regular inspections, I provide daily support to ensure that customers can continue to use their machinery with peace of mind, including proposing preventive maintenance based on the operating status of their machines.

When I receive a report of a malfunction, I find the process of formulating a repair "strategy" while looking at the blueprints to be particularly rewarding. Unexpected things can happen on-site, but I feel that I am growing as a person by flexibly responding while assessing the situation on the spot.

The most rewarding part of this job is when, after all the hard work of fixing a machine, the customer smiles and says "thank you." The appeal of this job lies not only in solving problems, but also in building trust through these repeated efforts.

Furthermore, I find it fascinating that my knowledge and skills are gradually updated as I face different challenges every day.

9:00

Arrive at the office, check emails and confirm the day's tasks.

9:15

Device operation check and program adjustment

12:00

Lunch break - having lunch with colleagues

13:00

Line work

14:00

Meeting with the manufacturing and design team.

16:00

Preparing customer test equipment for shipment and organizing operational verification records.

17:00

Cleaning up and checking the schedule for the next day.

18:00

Leaving