Saw Operator / Sign Fabricator

Job Title: Saw Operator / Sign Fabricator

Location: Houston, TX 77086

Type: Full-time, Onsite, Manufacturing Facility

Hardman Signs is a national leader in architectural signage and graphics. We design, manufacture, install, and service high-impact signage solutions for commercial properties, multi-family housing, healthcare facilities, parking garages, and more. We partner with leading construction and architectural design firms to bring signage visions to life—from concept to installation.

Job Summary

The Fabricator / Saw Operator is a foundational, hands-on role critical to the efficiency of the manufacturing floor. This position is responsible for the precision cutting, sizing, and structural preparation of all raw materials, ensuring that every piece—from large sheets to structural frames—is built or cut to the exact specifications required by the assembly teams. This role requires disciplined operation of cutting machinery and accurate interpretation of technical drawings.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The Fabricator / Saw Operator will provide essential initial processing and structural fabrication to ensure the highest quality components are delivered to the assembly benches.

Material Processing & Saw Operation:

• Precision Cutting: Safely set up and operate various cutting equipment, including panel saws, band saws, and chop saws, to cut aluminum, plastic sheets, and composite materials (ACM/DiBond).
• Tolerance Management: Ensure all materials are cut accurately to the required dimensions, typically maintaining no more than a $1/16$ inch tolerance.
• Material Optimization: Minimize material waste by efficiently nesting and cutting parts from stock sheets.

Structural Fabrication & Assembly:

• Backer Panel Fabrication: Build and assemble structural components, including backer panels, aluminum frames, raceways, and internal supports, using various fastening methods.
• Drilling and Tapping: Precisely drill, punch, and tap holes for mounting fasteners and electrical component attachment points.
• Welding (Preferred): Perform basic welding (MIG or TIG) to tack or complete structural joints on frames and supports.

Quality Control & Documentation:

• Blueprint Interpretation: Accurately read and interpret shop drawings, cut lists, and work orders to verify material type and required dimensions.
• Quality Inspection: Inspect all raw materials and finished cuts for defects or dimensional errors before processing or handing off to the next station.
• Maintenance: Perform routine cleaning and minor maintenance on all cutting and fabrication equipment.

Experience & Qualifications

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented professional eager to contribute to a productive team.

Education

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Completion of a vocational or trade school program in Fabrication, Welding, or Construction is preferred.

Technical Skills

• Tool Proficiency: Proven ability to safely operate industrial saws (panel saw, chop saw, band saw), drill presses, and common power/hand tools.
• Precision Measurement: Expertise in using precision measuring instruments (calipers, tape measures, squares) and basic shop math.
• Blueprint Reading: Demonstrated ability to interpret technical drawings, shop drawings, and detailed cut lists.
• Welding (Preferred): Familiarity or certification in metal inert gas (MIG) welding is a strong asset.

Soft Skills

• Organizational Skills: Excellent time-management and organizational skills, with the proven ability to maintain a clean, safe, and efficient workspace.
• Attention to Detail: Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in cutting and structural fitting, which directly impacts the quality of the final product.
• Communication: A professional and courteous demeanor suitable for communicating effectively with supervisors and assembly teams.

Physical and Workplace Demands

Candidates must be able to perform the following physical duties with or without reasonable accommodation in a manufacturing environment:

• Heavy Lifting: Ability to frequently lift, carry, and maneuver materials up to 50 pounds.
• Standing and Movement: Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and move for prolonged periods while working on the shop floor.
• Manual Dexterity: Required to frequently use hands for operating tools, guiding materials, and detailed fitting work.
• Work Environment: Requires working around moving machinery, noise, and various materials (metal, plastic), necessitating strict adherence to all shop safety protocols.