Machine Operator Entry Level

Walker White Mechanical; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid on-the-job training

Competitive pay

Benefits

Full-time employment

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Walker White Mechanical in Columbia, SC, is hiring an Entry-Level Machine Operator to join a sheet metal fabrication team. No prior fabrication experience required—hands-on training is provided to learn setup, operation, and quality control.

You will work with experienced fabricators on cutting, bending, and forming sheet metal, while reading shop drawings and following safety standards. Great start for a long-term skilled trades career.

Qualifications

• Strong work ethic and dependable attendance.
• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn a skilled trade.
• Ability to read a tape measure and perform basic math.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift/move materials.

Responsibilities

• Learn to operate and assist with setup of sheet metal fabrication equipment.
• Measure, cut, bend, and form sheet metal per drawings.
• Read and interpret blueprints, fabrication drawings, and work orders.
• Perform quality checks to ensure standards are met.
• Load, unload, and move materials safely in the shop.
• Assist experienced fabricators with daily production activities.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
• Follow company procedures and safety guidelines.
• Support production goals and help meet project deadlines.

Skills

Strong work ethic

Mechanical aptitude

Tape measure reading

Attention to detail

Team player

Physical stamina

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Job description

Machine Operator – Entry Level

Launch Your Career in Sheet Metal Fabrication

Company: Walker White Mechanical

Location: Columbia, SC

Position Type: Full-Time

Compensation: Competitive Pay + Benefits

Training: Paid On-the-Job Training

Start a Skilled Trades Career with Walker White Mechanical

Walker White Mechanical is a leading mechanical contractor serving commercial and industrial clients throughout South Carolina. Known for our quality workmanship, strong reputation, and commitment to employee development, we specialize in HVAC, plumbing, and custom sheet metal fabrication.

As our fabrication shop continues to grow, we are looking for a motivated Entry-Level Machine Operator who is eager to learn a skilled trade and build a long-term career. No prior fabrication experience is required—we provide hands-on training and opportunities for advancement.

If you're dependable, mechanically inclined, and enjoy working with your hands, this could be the perfect opportunity to start your career in manufacturing and construction.

Position Overview

As an Entry-Level Machine Operator, you will work alongside experienced fabricators to produce sheet metal components used in commercial and industrial mechanical systems. You'll receive comprehensive on-the-job training while learning to operate fabrication equipment, read shop drawings, and follow industry-leading quality and safety standards.

This role offers an excellent pathway into the skilled trades with opportunities for long-term growth and advancement.

What You'll Do

• Learn to operate and assist with setup of sheet metal fabrication equipment, including shears, press brakes, plasma tables, and related machinery
• Measure, cut, bend, and form sheet metal according to shop drawings and specifications
• Read and interpret basic blueprints, fabrication drawings, and work orders
• Perform quality checks to ensure products meet company and project standards
• Load, unload, and move materials safely throughout the fabrication shop
• Assist experienced fabricators with daily production activities
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety-focused work environment
• Follow company procedures and safety guidelines at all times
• Support production goals and assist the team in meeting project deadlines

What We’re Looking For

Required

• Strong work ethic and dependable attendance
• Mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn new skills
• Ability to read a tape measure and perform basic math calculations
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks in a manufacturing setting
• Ability to lift and move materials as needed

Preferred

• Previous experience in manufacturing, fabrication, construction, warehouse operations, or skilled trades
• Experience using hand and power tools
• Basic blueprint reading skills

No prior sheet metal fabrication experience is required. We are willing to train motivated candidates who are eager to learn.

Why Join Walker White Mechanical?

At Walker White Mechanical, we believe in developing talent from within. We provide the training, support, and opportunities needed to help employees build rewarding careers in the skilled trades.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay with opportunities for advancement and wage growth
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Paid, hands-on training and skill development
• Stable, full-time employment with a growing company
• Clear career paths within fabrication and mechanical construction
• Clean, organized, and safety-focused fabrication facility
• Team-oriented culture that values hard work, craftsmanship, and reliability
• Opportunity to work on projects that support major commercial and industrial construction throughout South Carolina

Build Your Future with Walker White Mechanical