Machine Operator

Join to apply for the Machine Operator role at Zekelman Industries

Zekelman is a family of companies — 100% domestic manufacturers — with a legacy dating back to 1877. We’re proud to be the largest independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer in North America and the leading innovator in multi-family housing development.

We believe in what we build, and what we build, builds the world around us—hospitals, hotels, schools, bridges, airports, and more.

Come build a career you believe in.

Under direct supervision, the Machine Operator sets up, maintains, and operates machinery to ensure continuous, efficient production. This role performs basic equipment troubleshooting and supports the production team by following established procedures to maximize efficiency and product quality.

What You’ll Do

• Leads and promotes healthy and safe work practices as required by regulatory agencies and company policy.
• Completes basic technical training on specific machine operation (2–8 weeks).
• Sets up machines (calibration, cleaning, etc.) to begin production cycles.
• Reads job specifications to determine machine adjustments and material requirements.
• Positions stops or guides to specified lengths as indicated by scale, rule, or template.
• Controls and adjusts machine settings (e.g., speed).
• Operates manually driven spinning, cutting, and fabricating machines, such as cutoff saws, shears, rolls, brakes, presses, forming machines, spinning machines, and punch presses.
• Feeds raw materials or parts to semi-automated machines.
• Assesses equipment issues, fixing basic malfunctions or escalating to senior staff as needed.
• Inspects output to identify any machine-related mistakes or flaws.
• Maintains production logs in paper format or shopfloor system.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular, full-time, predictable onsite attendance.

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical degree preferred.
• Some prior experience in a factory/manufacturing environment.
• Basic knowledge of diverse high-speed machinery and measurement tools (calipers, micrometers, etc.).
• Understanding of production procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Complies with all health and safety regulations, including use of PPE.
• Team player with good communication skills.
• Physical stamina and strength to meet demands of the role.

• Ability to lift, climb, bend, stoop, push, and pull.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods.
• Requires manual dexterity, coordination, and stamina.
• Ability to work in a plant/manufacturing environment.

Zekelman Industries offers competitive compensation and excellent benefits, including low-cost, high-quality medical and dental coverage. Additional benefits include:

• Competitive compensation
• Bonus plan & profit-sharing opportunities
• 401(k) with company match
• Comprehensive health, dental & vision insurance
• Tuition assistance program
• Paid vacation & holidays
• Employee loyalty awards

Zekelman Industries is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We recruit, employ, train, and promote without regard to race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic.