Forklift Operator Machine Operator Jobs in Waterloo, IA

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O’Neal Manufacturing Services is one of the largest family-owned metal fabrication companies in the United States. For over 100 years, we’ve built more than just metal – we’ve built trust, careers, and lasting relationships. We are committed to helping every team member grow, learn, and achieve more. Let’s Build Things – Together.

Position: Machine Operator I - CNC Brake Press
Pay: $20.00/hr. minimum depending upon background, $1.50/hr. shift premium.
Paid: Weekly
Schedule: 2nd shift Monday-Thursday 3:30pm to 2:00am (train on 1st shift 6-12 weeks)
Position Summary: The Machine Operator I is responsible for safely operating and maintaining a variety of production machines within the shop, including a CNC Brake Press. This role involves setting up, monitoring, and operating equipment such as saws, laser cutters, flattening presses, manual and robotic welders, press brakes, machining centers, lathes, and tube or custom lasers. The Machine Operator I ensures efficient production, adherence to safety standards, and high-quality output.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Safety Commitment:
• Follow all safety policies, procedures, and guidelines to maintain a safe work environment.
• Machine Operation:
• Setup and operate machines, including adjusting or replacing expendable tooling, guides, jigs, and fixtures.
• Operate various machines such as angle line machines, bevellers, saws, shears, oxy or plasma burners, laser cutters, rolling machines, flattening presses, shot blasters, welders (manual and robotic), press brakes, machining centers, lathes, and tube/custom lasers.

• Quality and Accuracy:
• Ensure error-free work for internal and external customers.
• Follow established processes to support safety and quality programs.
• General Duties:
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Work under direct supervision.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Basic critical thinking skills and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to operate forklifts and cranes. Must maintain certifications for required equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret simple blueprints.
• Proficiency in using hand tools (hammer, pliers, screwdriver, wrench, drill, grinder, bander).
• Ability to use measuring tools such as tape measure, box calipers, slide dial calipers, and micrometers.
• Ability to convert fractions to decimals and metric to English measurements.
• Ability to produce high-quality work.
• Capable of setting up and operating one or more processing machines.
• Ability to speak, write, and comprehend conversational English.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods, including walking 2-5 miles per shift.
• Ability to bend, sit, stand, twist, and stoop repeatedly for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry items weighing 25lbs – 50lbs from floor to waist and front carry up to 25lbs – 50lbs, repeatedly per shift.
• Ability to reach overhead, squat, kneel, and climb short ladders or steps.
• Ability to maintain coordination of hand and finger movements to grasp and manipulate objects with precision.
• Ability to read labels, follow safety and standard operating procedures, and communicate effectively in an industrial environment.
• 20/30 vision with the use of corrective lenses.
• Subject to environmental conditions that occur indoors and outdoors which include, but are not limited to:
• Exposure to changing temperatures, loud noises, and vibration from use of equipment.
• Hazards: proximity to moving mechanical parts, electrical current, exposure to high heat, and exposure to chemicals.
• Atmospheric conditions: fumes, odors, dust, mist, gas, or poor ventilation that may affect the respiratory system or skin.
• Oils: air and/or skin exposure to oils and other cutting fluids.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.