Plant Operator I

UTEX Industries Inc.; Conroe (TX); On-site; USD 34,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Health, dental, and vision benefits

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Career development and training

Job summary

UTEX Industries, a leading manufacturer of precision elastomer and plastic seals for oil and gas markets, is seeking an experienced Lathe Operator. You will set up and operate manual and CNC lathes to produce precision components according to specifications and schedules.

Join a safety-focused team committed to quality, continuous improvement, and teamwork. This position involves factory work with varying shifts, physical labor, and opportunities for forklift certification and career development.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Able to work in an industrial environment and perform physical labor.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to read and follow operating procedures and safety instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• Ability to work varying shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
• Forklift certification or willingness to obtain certification is a plus.
• Basic computer skills for data entry and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate manual and CNC lathes to produce precision components.
• Monitor gauges, meters, and control panels for proper performance.
• Inspect equipment and report issues promptly.
• Assist with startup, shutdown, and changeover activities.
• Perform basic preventative maintenance and housekeeping duties.
• Record production data in logs and reports.
• Troubleshoot minor issues and escalate when needed.
• Follow safety policies and maintain a clean work environment.
• Participate in safety meetings and continuous improvement programs.
• Collaborate with maintenance, quality, and production teams to meet goals.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Detail-oriented

Safety-conscious

Problem solving

Reading SOPs

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

CNC Lathes

Manual lathe operation

Job description

Industries:

UTEX Industries is a leading manufacturer of engineered sealing solutions serving the oil and gas, industrial, and petrochemical markets. With a legacy of innovation and operational excellence, we take pride in our people, our products, and our purpose. Join a team that values safety, integrity, and continuous improvement.

Brief Description

About UTEX Industries:

We are a manufacturer of precision elastomer and plastic seals serving oil & gas, mining, and water distribution markets, specializing in small-series production across 8,000+ SKUs annually. We are seeking an experienced Lathe Operator. The Lathe Operator will be responsible for setting up and operating manual and/or CNC lathes to produce precision-machined components according to specifications, quality standards, and production schedules.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate plant machinery and equipment according to established procedures
• Monitor gauges, meters, control panels, and instrumentation to ensure proper system performance
• Conduct routine inspections of equipment and report operational issues promptly
• Assist with startup, shutdown, and changeover activities as required
• Perform basic preventative maintenance and housekeeping duties
• Collect operational data and accurately complete production logs and reports
• Troubleshoot minor mechanical or operational problems and escalates issues when necessary
• Follow all company safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
• Participate in safety meetings, training programs, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Work collaboratively with maintenance, quality, and production teams to meet operational goals.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to work in an industrial environment and perform physical labor
• Basic mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
• Ability to read and follow operating procedures and safety instructions
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety
• Ability to work varying shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.

Nice to Have

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety
• Ability to work varying shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed
• Previous experience in a manufacturing, chemical, utility, water treatment, or industrial plant environment
• Forklift certification or willingness to obtain certification
• Basic computer skills for data entry and reporting

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and climb for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Comfortable working around machinery, noise, dust, and industrial equipment while wearing required PPE.

Why UTEX?

We don’t just build products — we build careers.

• Competitive pay
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holiday pay
• Career development and training opportunities
• A company culture rooted in respect, innovation, and collaboration

Equal Opportunity Employer

UTEX Industries is an equal employment opportunity employer and shall make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, creed, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, and/or any other status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.