Machine Operator

Machine Operator (Saw Operator / Forklift)

This role operates band saws and sit-down forklifts in a metal fabrication and aerospace materials environment. You will cut aluminum and steel to precise customer specifications, perform visual quality checks, and maintain accurate documentation and chain of custody for all materials processed. The position combines machine operation with warehouse duties and requires strong attention to detail, reliable attendance, and comfort working on your feet in a large industrial facility.

Responsibilities

• Operate band saws to cut aluminum and steel materials to exact lengths and dimensions according to work order specifications, including cuts ranging from approximately 4 feet to 20 feet and thicknesses from thin sheet to heavy material.
• Apply metal to customer orders and accurately process material in line with detailed work instructions and aerospace standards.
• Operate a sit-down forklift safely to move, load, and unload raw materials and finished products within the facility.
• Read and interpret tape measures and other measuring tools to ensure accurate cuts and proper material dimensions.
• Perform visual quality control checks on materials and finished pieces to verify that they meet all specifications and quality requirements.
• Maintain processing equipment, including saws and related tools, in a safe, clean, and functional condition.
• Keep the processing and warehouse areas clean, safe, and organized, following all housekeeping and safety guidelines.
• Complete all required information entry and paperwork accurately, including documentation related to chain of custody and material traceability.
• Follow established chain-of-custody procedures to ensure correct identification, handling, and tracking of all materials.
• Participate in classroom training during the first week and then work alongside an experienced trainer or operator until you can operate independently.
• Work effectively in a warehouse environment while operating machinery, handling materials, and supporting shipping and storage activities.
• Demonstrate strong attendance and consistent work history by arriving on time and completing scheduled shifts reliably.
• Perform any other related tasks or duties as assigned to support production, processing, and facility operations.

Essential Skills

• Previous experience operating a band saw, specifically cutting steel or similar metals.
• Ability and experience operating a sit-down forklift in an industrial or warehouse environment.
• Ability to read a tape measure accurately and apply measurements to cutting and material processing.
• Experience performing visual quality control on materials or finished products.
• Comfort working on your feet for extended periods in a warehouse and production setting.
• Strong attention to detail when measuring, cutting, inspecting, and documenting materials.
• Ability to complete paperwork accurately and maintain proper chain-of-custody documentation.
• Demonstrated strong attendance record and stable work history with solid tenure.
• Willingness to follow safety procedures and maintain a clean, safe, and orderly work area.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in metal fabrication or aerospace materials processing.
• Experience as a saw operator, machine operator, or forklift operator in a manufacturing or warehouse environment.
• Comfort working with aluminum and other metals in a production setting.
• Ability to learn new machinery and processes through structured classroom training and on-the-job coaching.
• Interest in long-term career development in an environment that offers progressive skill levels and performance-based advancement.
• Updated and accurate resume reflecting relevant experience and skills.

Why Work Here?

You join a stable organization that supports the aerospace industry and offers long-term job security. The role begins as a 90-day temporary assignment with a clear path to hire, giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and grow into a permanent position. Once hired directly, you benefit from a structured Career Pathways program with performance reviews and potential raises twice per year, allowing you to advance from one level to the next based on your results. The company offers shift options, including premium structures for second and third shifts, supporting different scheduling needs and rewarding flexibility. You work in an environment that invests in training, pairing you with experienced operators and providing classroom instruction so you can build confidence and competence in your role.

Work Environment

The role is based in large raw material supplier facilities where aluminum, steel, and other metals are stored, cut, and shipped to major aerospace customers. Work takes place in industrial warehouse and production buildings in Auburn, Washington, with dedicated areas for main operations and titanium processing. You work around band saws, aluminum saws, forklifts, and other material-handling equipment in a fast-paced, safety-focused environment. The first week on the job is primarily classroom training, followed by hands-on training alongside an experienced trainer or operator until you are ready to work independently. The position offers multiple shifts, including first shift (for example, early morning to mid-afternoon Monday through Thursday), second shift (midday to evening Monday through Friday), and third shift (extended hours over a long weekend schedule), with additional shift incentives available once hired full-time. You work on your feet, handle metal materials of various sizes and thicknesses, and operate machinery and forklifts in a setting that requires adherence to safety rules and proper use of industrial work attire suitable for a warehouse and manufacturing environment.

Job Type & Location: This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Auburn, WA.

Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $24.15 - $26.15/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type: This is a fully onsite position in Auburn,WA.

Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Jul 2, 2026.