Machine Operator - Entry Level

Walker-White Plumbing Hvac and Mechanical Inc; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 19,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid on-the-job training

Full-time position

Benefits

Job summary

Walker White Mechanical is seeking a motivated and dependable entry-level Machine Operator to join our sheet metal fabrication team in Columbia, SC. No prior sheet metal experience required; we provide comprehensive on-the-job training and a path to a skilled trade.

You'll learn to safely operate fabrication equipment, read shop drawings, and perform quality checks while supporting experienced fabricators on commercial and industrial projects across South Carolina.

Qualifications

• Strong work ethic required
• Ability to read a tape measure accurately
• Basic math and measurement skills
• Attention to detail and quality workmanship
• Teamwork and safety focus
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift materials
• Willingness to learn and be trained

Responsibilities

• Operate fabrication equipment safely (shears, press brakes, plasma tables)
• Measure, cut, bend, and form sheet metal per drawings
• Assist with machine setup and production operations
• Read and interpret work orders and blueprints
• Perform quality checks to ensure standards
• Move materials within the facility
• Support fabricators with daily tasks and deadlines
• Maintain a clean, safe work environment
• Adhere to safety procedures and quality standards
• Learn new skills through hands-on training and mentorship

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Tape measure

Basic math

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Safety-conscious

Physical stamina

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Blueprint reading

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 seeking a motivated and dependable Entry-Level Machine Operator to join our sheet metal fabrication team in Columbia, SC.

Whether you're just starting your career or looking to transition into a skilled trade, this is an excellent opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, gain hands‑on technical skills, and build a long‑term career with a company known for investing in its people.

For more than 50 years, Walker White Mechanical has delivered high‑quality HVAC, plumbing, and mechanical solutions throughout South Carolina. As our fabrication operations continue to grow, we're looking for hardworking individuals who are eager to learn, take initiative, and become part of a team that values craftsmanship, safety, and career development.

No sheet metal fabrication experience is required. We provide comprehensive on‑the‑job training for motivated candidates.

What You’ll Do

As an Entry‑Level Machine Operator, you'll work alongside experienced fabricators to produce custom sheet metal components used in commercial and industrial construction projects throughout South Carolina.

Responsibilities Include:

• Learn to safely operate fabrication equipment, including shears, press brakes, plasma tables, and other sheet metal machinery
• Measure, cut, bend, and form sheet metal according to shop drawings and production specifications
• Assist with machine setup and production operations
• Read and interpret work orders, fabrication drawings, and basic blueprints
• Perform quality checks to ensure products meet company standards
• Load, unload, organize, and transport materials throughout the fabrication facility
• Support experienced fabricators with daily production tasks and project deadlines
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safety‑focused work environment
• Follow all company safety procedures, policies, and quality standards
• Continuously develop new skills through hands‑on training and mentorship

What We’re Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Strong work ethic and dependable attendance
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Mechanical aptitude and interest in working with equipment and machinery
• Ability to read a tape measure accurately
• Basic math and measurement skills
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical work in a shop environment
• Ability to lift, carry, and move materials as needed
• Commitment to workplace safety

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in manufacturing, warehouse operations, construction, fabrication, or other skilled trades environments
• Experience using hand and power tools
• Basic blueprint‑reading skills
• Experience working in a production or shop environment

Don't meet every preferred qualification? Apply anyway. We're willing to train candidates who are eager to learn and build a career in the trades.

Why Join Walker White Mechanical?

At Walker White Mechanical, we believe great careers are built through opportunity, training, and support. We take pride in developing talent from within and providing employees with clear pathways for growth and advancement.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay with opportunities for wage growth and advancement
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Paid hands‑on training and skill development
• Stable, full‑time employment with a growing company
• Career advancement opportunities within fabrication and mechanical construction
• Clean, organized, and safety‑focused work environment
• Supportive team culture and experienced leadership
• Opportunities to learn specialized fabrication equipment and manufacturing processes
• The chance to contribute to major commercial and industrial construction projects across South Carolina

Build Skills That Last a Lifetime

This isn't just a job—it's an opportunity to learn a valuable trade, develop specialized technical skills, and build a rewarding career with a respected mechanical contractor.

If you're dependable, motivated, and ready to learn, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and start building your future with Walker White Mechanical. Learn a trade. Develop your skills. Grow your career.