Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Richland, WA

Shop Laborer I

Location: Richland, WA
Company: Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, Inc.
Salary: $18 - $20 DOE

About Columbia Energy

Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, headquartered in Richland, WA, is a well-established small business with over 30 years of experience supporting the nuclear, defense, energy, and hazardous waste industries. Originally founded to support nuclear cleanup efforts at Hanford, the company has grown into a trusted provider of engineering, design, fabrication, instrumentation and controls, and other specialized services.

We are known for delivering high-quality, safety-focused solutions to both federal and commercial clients. Our team values technical precision, collaboration, and integrity, and we take pride in maintaining a strong safety culture across all operations.

Why Join Columbia Energy?

At Columbia Energy, employees are valued contributors to the success of the organization. We foster a collaborative, team-oriented environment where reliability, initiative, and craftsmanship matter. This role offers steady, full-time employment with opportunities to develop hands-on skills in a growing fabrication and production environment.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Shop Laborer I to support production and fabrication operations at our Richland, WA facility. This role assists with general shop activities, material preparation, and maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, dependable, and eager to learn in a fast-paced shop setting.

Essential Responsibilities & Duties

• Perform all duties safely and professionally in accordance with company policies and procedures
• Assist with assembly of basic mechanical equipment, structural components, and piping systems
• Prepare materials by removing burrs, sharp edges, rust, or scale
• Cut, grind, sand, or blast fabricated parts as part of material preparation and finishing
• Identify and report unsafe conditions or malfunctioning equipment
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace
• Load and unload trucks using forklifts and other equipment as needed
• Operate shop tools and machinery safely (e.g., saws, torches, grinders, drills)
• Assist with fitting and fabrication of metal products under supervision
• Perform basic maintenance on assigned tools and equipment
• Deliver materials, tools, or fabricated items between shop and field locations as needed
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening (Columbia Energy maintains a drug- and alcohol-free workplace)
• Ability to read, write, and follow verbal and written instructions
• Ability to safely operate hand tools, machinery, and vehicles
• Willingness to travel to field sites occasionally
• Strong math and measurement skills (fractions, decimals, basic geometry)
• Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in a fabrication, warehouse, or construction environment
• Familiarity with basic mechanical assembly or metalworking processes
• Forklift certification or willingness to obtain certification

Key Success Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Positive attitude and team-oriented mindset
• Reliable, consistent, and motivated to learn
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Maintains composure and productivity in a fast-paced environment

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs
• Regular use of hands and arms to handle tools, materials, and equipment
• Comfortable working at heights and in varying shop environments (hot, cold, damp)
• Must wear required PPE, including hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, and safety-toed boots

Working Conditions

• Primarily based in a shop and fabrication environment
• Fast-paced, deadline-driven work with a strong focus on safety and quality
• Occasional travel to project or vendor sites may be required
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) required in designated areas

Compensation & Benefits

This is a full-time, non-exempt position offering competitive hourly pay based on experience.
Eligible employees may participate in the company's benefit programs in accordance with plan terms and eligibility requirements.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.