Machine Operator

Apache Workforce LLC; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Night shift differential 10%

Job summary

Apache Workforce is seeking Machine Operators in Houston, TX to support piping and structural fabrication. You will operate and monitor manufacturing equipment such as saws, lathes, milling machines, plasma/laser cutters, grinders, and robotic welding systems.

Reading drawings or work orders and using measuring tools is essential for safe, quality production. Ideal candidates have experience with industrial equipment, safety procedures, and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Experience operating industrial manufacturing or fabrication equipment preferred.
• Ability to read blueprints, technical drawings, work orders, or production instructions.
• Familiarity with safe operating procedures and quality standards.
• Basic measuring tool proficiency and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Operate manufacturing and fabrication equipment according to work orders, drawings, and production requirements.
• Set up and adjust equipment for assigned production work.
• Measure and mark steel and other materials using appropriate measuring tools.
• Monitor machine operation and make adjustments to maintain quality and accuracy.
• Identify and address basic operating issues such as material jams or incorrect machine settings.
• Perform routine equipment inspections and basic maintenance activities.
• Assist with material handling and inventory tracking.
• Follow work orders and production schedules.
• Maintain accurate production and equipment records as required.

Skills

Industrial equipment operation

Blueprint reading

Measuring tools

Safety procedures

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Machine Operator

Location: Houston, TX

Pay: $20.00–$25.00 per hour, depending on experience

Night Shift Differential: Additional 10% for night shift hours

Position Summary

Apache Workforce is seeking Machine Operators for opportunities supporting piping and structural fabrication operations in Houston.

This position involves operating and monitoring manufacturing equipment used to process steel and other materials. Equipment may include saws, lathes, milling machines, plasma cutters, laser cutters, grinders, robotic welding equipment, and related fabrication machinery.

The ideal candidate will have experience operating industrial equipment, reading production drawings or work orders, using measuring tools, and following established safety and quality procedures.

Responsibilities

• Operate manufacturing and fabrication equipment according to work orders, drawings, and production requirements.


• Set up and adjust equipment for assigned production work.


• Measure and mark steel and other materials using appropriate measuring tools.


• Monitor machine operation and make adjustments to maintain quality and accuracy.


• Identify and address basic operating issues such as material jams, worn tooling, or incorrect machine settings.


• Perform routine equipment inspections and basic maintenance activities.


• Assist with material handling and inventory tracking.


• Follow work orders and production schedules.


• Maintain accurate production and equipment records as required.


• Operate overhead cranes or other material-handling equipment when trained and authorized.


• Maintain an organized work area and follow established housekeeping standards.


• Follow company safety and quality procedures.


• Participate in required safety and job-related training.


• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Experience operating industrial manufacturing or fabrication equipment preferred.


• Ability to read and follow blueprints, technical drawings, work orders, or production instructions.


• Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of machine operation.


• Familiarity with fabrication equipment and safe operating procedures.


• Ability to use measuring tools such as tape measures, rulers, calipers, and similar equipment.


• Ability to monitor equipment and make basic operating adjustments.


• Basic troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.


• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.


• Basic computer skills for production documentation.


• Ability to work effectively with team members and supervisors.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.


• 2+ years of fabrication, machine operation, or related manufacturing experience preferred.


• Experience operating equipment such as saws, lathes, milling machines, plasma cutters, laser cutters, or grinders is a plus.


• Vocational training or technical education related to machine operation is preferred.


• Equivalent combinations of relevant training and experience may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

• Forklift experience or certification.


• Overhead crane experience or certification.


• Machine operation or technical certification.


• Experience with robotic welding systems.


• Experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment.


• Familiarity with lean manufacturing or 5S practices.


• Experience with material nesting or material utilization.

Work Environment

• This position is performed in a manufacturing and fabrication shop environment and may involve exposure to industrial equipment, steel materials, noise, dust, and varying temperatures.


• Standing and moving throughout the work area for extended periods.


• Bending, reaching, and performing repetitive machine-operation tasks.


• Handling and moving materials weighing up to approximately 50 pounds.


• Working around industrial machinery, steel materials, and fabrication equipment.


• Working in areas that may not be climate controlled.


• Operating equipment or material-handling machinery according to established safety procedures.


• Reasonable accommodations may be available for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Safety & PPE

Employees are expected to follow applicable workplace safety procedures and use required PPE based on assigned equipment and work areas.

Typical PPE

• Safety glasses


• Steel-toe boots


• Hearing protection in designated areas


• Additional PPE as required for specific equipment or tasks