Machine Operator - Shear

Piping Technology & Products; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Piping Technology & Products in Houston, TX is seeking a Shear Operator to set up and run shearing machinery for cutting metal to precise dimensions. You will read orders and blueprints, measure with precision tools, and maintain quality while following safety procedures.

Responsibilities include blade adjustments, routine maintenance, and accurate production records. Strong attention to detail and teamwork are essential for meeting daily production targets on-site.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience operating shears or similar metal-fabrication equipment preferred.
• 1–4 years in manufacturing/industrial environment preferred.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and understanding of pressure systems.
• Basic understanding of hand and power tools.
• Strong attention to detail and safety awareness.
• Strong communication, attendance and reliability.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate mechanical or hydraulic shears to cut metal stock to specified lengths, widths, and angles.
• Read and interpret work orders, blueprints, and cut sheets to determine dimensions, tolerances, and quantities.
• Measure and mark material using tapes, squares, calipers, and other precision tools.
• Adjust blade clearance, back gauge, and hold-downs for accurate cuts.
• Inspect finished cuts for accuracy and conformance to specs; flag/repair out-of-tolerance pieces.
• Load and unload metal stock using cranes, forklifts, or other handling equipment.
• Perform routine maintenance and minor adjustments on shearing equipment; report issues.
• Maintain production records including quantities cut, scrap, and material used.
• Follow safety protocols, PPE, and lockout/tagout procedures.
• Keep work area clean and organized; support 5S practices.
• Collaborate with supervisors, quality control, and other operators to meet schedules.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Safety awareness

Attention to detail

Communication

Teamwork

Follow instructions

Independence

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Hand and power tools

Job description

Description

Position Summary

The Shear Operator sets up and operates shearing machines and related equipment to cut metal

plate, sheet, or bar stock to specified dimensions. This role reads work orders and blueprints,

makes precise measurements, and ensures finished pieces meet dimensional tolerances and

quality standards while following all safety procedures.

Requirements

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate mechanical or hydraulic shears to cut metal stock to specified lengths, widths, and angles.
• Read and interpret work orders, blueprints, and cut sheets to determine correct dimensions, tolerances, and quantities.
• Measure and mark material using tapes, squares, calipers, and other precision measuring tools.
• Adjust blade clearance, back gauge, and hold-downs to achieve accurate, clean cuts.
• Inspect finished cuts for accuracy and conformance to specifications; flag or correct out-of-tolerance pieces.
• Select, load, and safely handle metal stock using overhead cranes, forklifts, or other material-handling equipment as needed.
• Perform routine maintenance and minor adjustments on shearing equipment; report mechanical issues promptly.
• Maintain accurate production records, including quantities cut, scrap generated, and material used.
• Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of machine guards, lockout/tagout procedures, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Keep the work area clean, organized, and free of hazards in accordance with 5S or similar standards.
• Collaborate with supervisors, quality control, and other operators to meet production schedules.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred
• Previous experience operating shears or similar metal-fabrication equipment in a manufacturing or industrial setting preferred
• Minimum 1 – 4 years of experience in manufacturing, testing, or industrial environment preferred
• Basic understanding of mechanical aptitude and understanding of pressure systems
• Basic understanding of hand and power tools
• Strong attention to detail and safety awareness
• Strong communication, attendance, and reliability
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand for prolonged periods (8+ hours)
• Must be able to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 lbs. independently
• Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, and manual handling of materials required
• Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity
• Ability to tolerate noise, heat, and dust in a manufacturing environment
• Visual acuity to read measuring tools, drawings, and detect quality defects
• Must pass initial and ongoing physical or occupational health screenings and fitness for duty test (e.g., lifting assessment, vision test, hearing test, etc.)
• Must be able to wear required PPE, including steel-toe boots, gloves, safety glasses, and hearing protection

Work Environment

Manufacturing floor with exposure to moving mechanical parts, sharp materials, and moderate

to loud noise. May be exposed to hot or cold environments depending on season. Work schedule

may include overtime, weekend shifts, or on-call schedules as needed.