BENJAMIN STEEL COMPANY
JOB TITLE: Machine Operator
SUPERVISED BY: Warehouse Superintendent/Warehouse Supervisor
POSITION SUMMARY
Operates and maintains laser cutting and burn machine equipment to process material according to customer specifications and production schedules. Performs machine set-up, adjustments, material handling, inspections, and routine maintenance while ensuring efficient use of material and maintaining a safe work environment. Works independently and collaboratively to maximize productivity, minimize waste, and support warehouse operations as needed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Locate, identify, and retrieve stock accurately for processing.
- Measure stock length and verify material specifications.
- Load and unload material from machines using appropriate material handling equipment.
- Set up, operate, adjust, and monitor laser cutting and burn machines to ensure efficient production.
- Install and replace nozzles, lenses, burning tips, and other consumable components as required.
- Adjust machine parameters, guides, stops, pressures, feeds, speeds, and operating sequences to achieve optimal cutting quality and material utilization.
- Recognize when tools, tips, and equipment require replacement and notify supervision as necessary.
- Read blueprints, prints, digital files, work orders, and customer specifications to ensure products conform to requirements.
- Load, edit, and delete machine programs when necessary.
- Inspect finished products using measuring devices including tape measures, calipers, micrometers, radius gauges, squares, protractors, and other inspection tools.
- Complete all required paperwork and accurately record production activities, inspections, and material movement within company systems.
- Maintain inspection records, machine logs, and other documentation as required.
- Operate overhead cranes, forklifts, and other material handling equipment safely and efficiently.
- Perform general maintenance and routine cleaning of machines and related equipment.
- Process material to minimize waste and properly identify, store, and return drops and remnants.
- Assist with warehouse functions and other processing operations when production demands require.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area at all times.
- Demonstrate professionalism by being helpful and courteous to customers and fellow employees.
- Perform other duties as assigned for the benefit of the Company.
- Good attendance is an essential function of this position.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Previous machine operator experience preferred.
- Laser cutting and/or burn machine experience preferred.
- Experience operating overhead cranes and forklifts preferred.
- Experience with 3D machine operation preferred.
- Experience interpreting blueprints, templates, and technical drawings preferred.
- Strong mathematical, geometry, measurement, and computer skills preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team with minimal supervision.
- Computer literacy and ability to work within production software systems.
- Familiarity with machine controllers and programming functions; experience with Fanuc 3D Controllers is preferred.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, digital files, and work orders.
- Proficiency using precision measuring instruments, including tape measures, calipers, micrometers, squares, protractors, and gauges.
- Ability to safely operate gas/oxygen torch equipment and related machinery.
- Strong attention to detail and excellent eye-to-hand coordination.
- Effective reading, writing, communication, and mathematical skills.
- Ability to prioritize work, solve problems, and adapt to changing production demands.
- Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, which are required approximately 95% of the workday, including lifting up to 50 pounds independently, pushing, pulling, standing, bending, and climbing.
Weekly Pay, Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k + match, Vacation, PTO