Fabricator – Machine Operator

Position Overview
We are seeking a dependable, mechanically inclined Fabricator – Machine Operator to join a manufacturing team in Harlan, IA. This position involves setting up, adjusting, and operating metal fabrication equipment to produce quality components according to blueprints, specifications, and production orders.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up, adjust, and operate fabrication equipment, including CNC press brakes, metal rollers, punch presses, shears, saws, drills, grinders, and other production machinery.
• Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, work orders, and production instructions.
• Use precision measuring tools, including calipers, micrometers, squares, and gauges, to verify product dimensions and quality.
• Inspect materials and finished components to ensure accuracy and compliance with specifications.
• Perform machine adjustments and basic troubleshooting to maintain efficient production.
• Track production quantities, inventory transactions, and labor hours accurately.
• Utilize computerized production and inventory systems (ERP) to access work orders and material information.
• Operate forklifts and overhead cranes after completing required training and certification.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Follow established safety procedures and support continuous improvement and lean manufacturing practices.

Qualifications

• Must currently reside within 30 miles of Harlan, IA.
• High school diploma or GED, or equivalent experience.
• Previous manufacturing, fabrication, or machine operation experience preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and operating instructions.
• Basic math skills, including measurements, fractions, decimals, and metric conversions.
• Strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining production and quality standards.
• Dependable, punctual, and able to work effectively with a team.
• Willingness and ability to complete required in-house forklift and overhead crane certification training.

Preferred, But Not Required:

• 1–2 years of metal fabrication or machine operation experience.
• Experience operating CNC press brakes, punch presses, metal rollers, or similar fabrication equipment.
• Familiarity with precision measuring instruments.
• Previous experience using ERP or computerized production systems.
• Welding experience is a plus, but not required.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods while operating manufacturing equipment.
• Ability to lift, move, and handle materials as required.
• Ability to bend, reach, stoop, and perform repetitive movements.
• Comfortable working around moving machinery, metal materials, and production equipment.
• Manufacturing environment with moderate to loud noise levels and potential exposure to metal chips, coolants, and airborne particles.
• Ability to follow all workplace safety procedures and properly use protective equipment.

What We're Looking For
The ideal candidate is dependable, mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, and safety-conscious. We're looking for someone who takes pride in producing quality work, can follow technical instructions, and enjoys working with manufacturing equipment. Candidates with previous metal fabrication or machine operation experience are encouraged to apply.

Apply Today!
If you're looking for a 1st Shift Fabricator – Machine Operator opportunity in Harlan, IA, we'd like to hear from you!