Machine Operator - Structural Steel

Endres Manufacturing Company; Waunakee (WI); On-site; USD 20,664 - 34,440; Full time

Job summary

A manufacturing firm is seeking a dependable and skilled Machine Operator located in Waunakee, Wisconsin. The role requires setting up, operating, and maintaining heavy-duty structural steel processing equipment while ensuring production schedules are met with strong safety and quality focus. Candidates should have at least one year of machine operation experience, be comfortable with heavy machinery, and be proficient in using measurement tools. This position involves frequent physical activity and the ability to lift heavy materials.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of machine operation experience or equivalent technical training.
• Comfortable operating heavy machinery or industrial fabrication.
• Proficient with measurement tools and basic blueprint interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Perform daily machine operations in the Punch, Shear, and Saw Department.
• Monitor machine performance, adjust settings, and optimize output.
• Conduct in-process and final quality checks using measurement tools.

Skills

Troubleshooting machine issues

Machine operation

Reading blueprints

Use of measurement tools

Strong mechanical aptitude

Safety procedures compliance

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Hydmech saw

Shear

Brake press

Burn table

Job description

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Endres Manufacturing Company is seeking a dependable and skilled Machine Operator. This role is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining heavy‑duty structural steel processing equipment. Machine Operators ensure machines run efficiently, materials are processed accurately, and production schedules are met with strong attention to safety and quality.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform daily machine operations in the Punch, Shear, and Saw Department, including setup, calibration, and safe operation of equipment.
• Frequently operate a combination of machines, including Hydmech Saw, Shear, Brake Press, Burn Table (processing full‑size sheets up to 20 ft).
• Use overhead hoists regularly to move and position steel components (minimal forklift operation).
• Load raw materials into semi‑automated equipment and support the continuous flow of production.
• Monitor machine performance, adjust settings, and optimize output.
• Perform routine cleaning, inspections, and basic maintenance to keep equipment running safely and efficiently.
• Conduct in‑process and final quality checks, using measurement tools to verify lengths, degrees, miters, and accuracy.
• Accurately read and interpret basic prints, work instructions, degrees, angles, and miter.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Requirements: Troubleshoot and resolve machine issues or malfunctions to minimize downtime, prioritize tasks and meet daily production expectations, assist with loading/unloading trucks and moving materials within the shop as needed, properly use required PPE and follow all safety procedures (including safe hoist and rigging practices), maintain a clean and organized work area, support overall shop efficiency, and learn additional machines and processes as needed to support team flexibility.
• Minimum 1 year of machine operation experience or equivalent technical training.
• Preferred: Experience with structural steel, heavy machinery, or industrial fabrication strongly preferred; comfortable operating Hydmech saw, shear, brake press, burn table, or similar industrial equipment; ability to read and interpret degrees, miters, angles, and basic blueprints accurately; proficiency using measurement tools such as tape measures, squares, protractors, and calipers; must pass an onsite measurement skills test; strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues; ability to operate overhead hoists confidently (minimal forklift operation required); ability to work independently with minimal supervision while communicating effectively within a team; strong understanding of safety procedures, hazard awareness, and machine‑guarding requirements; high school diploma or GED required.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Work collaboratively as part of a production team, including sharing tasks on large components. Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching. Regular use of hands and fingers to operate machines, controls, and tools. Ability to grip, grasp, push, pull, and handle heavy steel materials. Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularly. Comfortable bending, twisting, and maneuvering around large equipment and steel sections.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Apply Online: https://endresmfg.com/employment-opportunities/