Machine Operator

Join Lapham-Hickey Steel – A Tradition of Excellence, Innovation, and Opportunity

Lapham-Hickey Steel is a family-owned, industry-leading steel service center with a legacy of almost 100 years in manufacturing and steel processing. With locations across the U.S., including Illinois, Connecticut, Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia, we are committed to delivering high-quality steel products while fostering a culture of growth, teamwork, and innovation.

At Lapham-Hickey, we invest in our people, offering competitive benefits, career development opportunities, and a supportive environment where employees can thrive. Whether you're looking to start or advance your career in manufacturing, engineering, sales, or operations, we provide the tools and resources to help you succeed.

Join us and be part of a company that values integrity, customer commitment, and continuous improvement. Your future in steel starts here!

About the Role:

The Steel Barco 2nd shift Operator will be tasked to run our Oscillating line on 2nd shift. This position will need a highly motivated self-sufficient individual due to a lack of supervision on this shift. Once training is complete the operator and an assistant operator will work 2nd shift. Operators are required to troubleshoot issues, report quality issues, set up the machine based on the order requirements and meet daily production goals.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be able to be trained on the specific machine/equipment hired for.
• Must be able to read and fill out all documents related to job after training.
• Must be able to do basic math which includes fractions and decimals.
• Must have the ability to read tape measure, calipers and micrometer (after training).
• Must be able to stand for extended periods of time and stoop/bend repeatedly throughout the day.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs occasionally.
• Must be able to work 2nd shift after training is complete.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in machine operation or manufacturing technology.
• Experience with preventive maintenance and troubleshooting of production machinery.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement processes.
• Forklift certification or additional heavy equipment operation licenses.
• Basic computer skills for logging production data and machine performance.

Responsibilities:

• Operate and monitor production machinery to meet daily production goals.
• Set up and adjust machines according to specifications, using tools such as micrometers to ensure precision.
• Perform deburring and other finishing tasks to maintain product quality and compliance with manufacturing standards.
• Safely operate overhead cranes and clamp trucks to move materials and finished products within the production area.
• Conduct routine inspections and maintenance on machinery to prevent breakdowns and ensure operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to troubleshoot equipment issues and implement corrective actions promptly.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in compliance with safety and quality regulations.

Skills:

The required skills such as operating assembly lines, press machines, and mold machines are essential for daily production activities, ensuring that products are manufactured to exact specifications. Proficiency with overhead cranes and clamp trucks enables the safe and efficient movement of heavy materials, which is critical in maintaining workflow continuity. Using precision tools like micrometers allows the operator to verify dimensions and maintain quality control throughout the manufacturing process. Deburring skills contribute to the finishing process, enhancing product safety and aesthetics. Preferred skills, including preventive maintenance and lean manufacturing knowledge, support the operator in minimizing downtime and improving overall production efficiency, while computer skills facilitate accurate record-keeping and communication.