What are the responsibilities and job description for the Wheel Building Operator position at Guardian Bikes?
Job Summary
Guardian Bikes is a leading direct-to-consumer kids' bike brand, known for its patented SureStop brake technology and a mission to build the safest kids' bikes in the industry. Guardian is building a vertically integrated, AI-driven manufacturing and commerce company — we design, manufacture, fulfill, and sell directly from our U.S. factory floor to the customer's door. The company has grown from a small startup into a major brand, selling over a million bikes to families across the country.
We are seeking a dependable Wheel Building Operator to join our production team. In this role, you'll build bicycle wheels from the ground up, lacing spokes, hubs, and rims into finished wheels in a fast-paced production environment. Every wheel you build is the foundation of a safe, reliable ride, helping ensure each bike that leaves our facility meets the safety and quality standards Guardian is known for.
Key Responsibilities
- Build bicycle wheels from individual components (spokes, hubs, rims, and nipples) according to build specifications and quality standards
- Lace, tension, and true wheels to ensure they are straight, round, and properly balanced
- Inspect components and finished wheels to catch issues before they move down the line
- Maintain a steady, fast pace to keep the line supplied and meet daily production goals
- Follow safety protocols and keep your workstation, tools, and parts organized and ready to go
- Communicate with teammates and leads about any quality or process concerns
- Support other production or warehouse tasks as operational needs change
Skills & Qualifications
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or GED preferred
- Prior experience in manufacturing, assembly, warehouse, or production environments preferred
- Experience working with hand tools or power tools is a plus
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods (up to a full shift)
- Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 lbs
- Comfortable with repetitive bending, reaching, kneeling, and fine motor tasks (handling small parts and hardware)
- Sufficient hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity for precise assembly work
- Visual acuity sufficient to inspect parts and identify defects
Skills & Abilities
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
- Ability to read and follow build instructions, diagrams, and work orders
- Basic math skills for measuring and counting components
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, deadline-driven production environment
- Comfortable using basic hand tools and possibly pneumatic tools