Machine Operator

Machine Operator Location: Houston, TX Pay: $20.00–$25.00 per hour, depending on experience Night Shift Differential: Additional 10% for night shift hours Position Summary Apache Workforce is seeking Machine Operators for opportunities supporting piping and structural fabrication operations in Houston. This position involves operating and monitoring manufacturing equipment used to process steel and other materials.

Equipment may include saws, lathes, milling machines, plasma cutters, laser cutters, grinders, robotic welding equipment, and related fabrication machinery. The ideal candidate will have experience operating industrial equipment, reading production drawings or work orders, using measuring tools, and following established safety and quality procedures.

Responsibilities

Operate manufacturing and fabrication equipment according to work orders, drawings, and production requirements. Equipment may include: Saws Lathes Milling machines Plasma cutters Laser cutters Grinders Robotic welding equipment Other related fabrication machinery Set up and adjust equipment for assigned production work.

Measure and mark steel and other materials using appropriate measuring tools. Monitor machine operation and make adjustments to maintain quality and accuracy. Identify and address basic operating issues such as material jams, worn tooling, or incorrect machine settings. Perform routine equipment inspections and basic maintenance activities.

Assist with material handling and inventory tracking. Follow work orders and production schedules. Maintain accurate production and equipment records as required. Operate overhead cranes or other material-handling equipment when trained and authorized. Maintain an organized work area and follow established housekeeping standards.

Follow company safety and quality procedures. Participate in required safety and job-related training. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Experience operating industrial manufacturing or fabrication equipment preferred. Ability to read and follow blueprints, technical drawings, work orders, or production instructions. Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of machine operation. Familiarity with fabrication equipment and safe operating procedures. Ability to use measuring tools such as tape measures, rulers, calipers, and similar equipment.

Ability to monitor equipment and make basic operating adjustments. Basic troubleshooting and problem-solving skills. Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality. Basic computer skills for production documentation. Ability to work effectively with team members and supervisors.

Education

& Experience High school diploma or equivalent preferred. 2+ years of fabrication, machine operation, or related manufacturing experience preferred. Experience operating equipment such as saws, lathes, milling machines, plasma cutters, laser cutters, or grinders is a plus. Vocational training or technical education related to machine operation is preferred.

Equivalent combinations of relevant training and experience may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications

Forklift experience or certification. Overhead crane experience or certification. Machine operation or technical certification. Experience with robotic welding systems. Experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment. Familiarity with lean manufacturing or 5S practices. Experience with material nesting or material utilization.

Work Environment This position is performed in a manufacturing and fabrication shop environment and may involve exposure to industrial equipment, steel materials, noise, dust, and varying temperatures. The position may require: Standing and moving throughout the work area for extended periods. Bending, reaching, and performing repetitive machine-operation tasks.

Handling and moving materials weighing up to approximately 50 pounds. Working around industrial machinery, steel materials, and fabrication equipment. Working in areas that may not be climate controlled. Operating equipment or material-handling machinery according to established safety procedures. Reasonable accommodations may be available for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Safety & PPE Employees are expected to follow applicable workplace safety procedures and use required PPE based on assigned equipment and work areas. Typical PPE may include: Safety glasses Steel-toe boots Hearing protection in designated areas Additional PPE as required for specific equipment or tasks