Crate Builder

Molding Automation Concepts or “MAC,” is an established engineering and manufacturing company that has been around for over 30 years. Located in Woodstock, Illinois, specializing in industrial automation equipment and serving the international plastics industry. MAC has earned a solid reputation for quality, innovative products and conscientious service. We are seeking engaged, dedicated, dependable and hardworking individuals to become part of our manufacturing team.

Position Summary

The Crate Builder is responsible for constructing custom wood shipping crates, skids, pallets, supports, and protective packaging used for industrial machinery, fabricated components, and related products. This position ensures products are packaged, protected, and secured for safe domestic and international shipment while meeting quality, dimensional, and shipping specifications.

The Crate Builder utilizes woodworking tools, measuring devices, fastening equipment, and material handling equipment to fabricate shipping structures and protective packaging systems.

Core Responsibilities

Crate & Packaging Fabrication

• Build custom shipping crates, skids, pallets, braces, and supports from lumber, plywood, OSB, and related materials.
• Measure and cut wood materials according to shipping specifications and engineering requirements.
• Assemble crating components using nail guns, screws, staples, bolts, adhesives, and fastening hardware.
• Install internal blocking, bracing, foam, wrapping, and protective materials to secure products during shipment.
• Verify dimensions and structural integrity of completed crates.
• Apply markings, labels, shipping information, and handling instructions.

Product Protection & Shipping Preparation

• Secure machinery, fabricated parts, and assemblies for transportation.
• Wrap and protect products using stretch wrap, foam, vapor barriers, cardboard, and protective coverings.
• Assist with load preparation and shipment staging.
• Follow domestic and international crating requirements where applicable.

Material Handling & Support

• Move lumber, panels, packaging materials, and finished crates using carts, pallet jacks, or forklifts.
• Load and unload materials as required.
• Maintain inventory awareness of lumber, fasteners, and packaging supplies.

Quality & Safety

• Inspect completed crates for dimensional accuracy, strength, and shipping readiness.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas.
• Follow all safety procedures related to saws, pneumatic tools, forklifts, lifting, and material handling.
• Report unsafe conditions, damaged materials, or equipment issues immediately.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of knowledge, skill, and or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Machines, Tools & Equipment Operated

Woodworking & Fabrication Equipment

• Circular saws
• Miter saws
• Nail guns / pneumatic staplers
• Drills and drivers
• Air compressors
• Tape measures, squares, levels, and measuring tools

Material Handling Equipment

• Forklifts (if certified)
• Pallet jacks
• Material carts

Packaging Equipment

• Stretch wrap equipment
• Banding tools
• Staplers and fastening systems

Required Skills & Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Basic woodworking, construction, or manufacturing experience preferred.
• Ability to read tape measures and basic dimensional drawings.
• Ability to safely operate hand and power tools.
• Mechanical aptitude and basic math skills.
• Ability to follow shipping specifications and work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and product protection.
• Ability to work independently and meet production schedules.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous crating, carpentry, packaging, or shipping experience.
• Experience building custom crates or industrial packaging systems.
• Forklift operation experience.
• Experience handling large industrial equipment or fabricated products.
• Knowledge of international shipping or export packaging requirements helpful.

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and lifting.
• Frequent lifting of 20–50 lbs.
• Occasional lifting exceeding 50 lbs. with assistance or lifting devices.
• Frequent repetitive hand and arm motions.
• Ability to safely handle large or awkward materials.
• Visual acuity required for measurements and safe equipment operation.

Work Environment

• Industrial manufacturing and shipping environment.
• Exposure to wood dust, noise, fast-moving production activity, and material handling equipment.
• Exposure to sharp tools, pneumatic equipment, and heavy materials.
• PPE may include safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and safety footwear.
• Seasonal temperature variation possible in shipping or warehouse areas.

Additional:

• To be considered for this position, your resume needs to specifically document, including examples, how you are qualified for this position. Simply listing skills is not acceptable.
• Full-time. 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM M-F, Overtime required on occasion. Summer hours 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM, approximately Memorial Day through Labor Day.
• The successful candidate is engaged, dependable, ambitious, and is accountable for their actions. Please demonstrate how this describes you.
• A major plus: Ability or willingness to learn to drive a Non-CDL, Class C, box truck.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person

Salary : $17 - $19