Shop Helper

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Sander and Buffer Job Description

This role focuses on mechanical finishing and preparation work, including sanding, polishing, mapping thickness, masking, and related tasks to support production and assembly operations. You contribute directly to the quality and consistency of finished parts by using hand tools, power tools, and production equipment in a fast-paced environment.

• Perform sanding, grinding, and polishing on parts and materials to meet specified finishes and quality standards.
• Carry out mechanical preparation tasks such as masking and paint prep to ensure surfaces are ready for subsequent processes.
• Map and verify thickness of materials or coatings using appropriate tools and methods to maintain accurate specifications.
• Operate sandblasting equipment and other finishing tools safely and efficiently as part of the production process.
• Support general labor and production activities, including moving materials, staging work, and assisting with assembly tasks.
• Use hand tools, power tools, drills, and fabrication equipment to complete assigned mechanical and finishing work.
• Follow blueprints, work instructions, and production documents to understand requirements and complete tasks correctly.
• Assist with inventory-related tasks such as counting, organizing, and tracking materials and finished parts as needed.
• Operate a forklift when required to move materials and products safely within the facility, following all safety protocols.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including proper storage of tools and equipment and disposal of waste materials.
• Perform basic computer data entry and documentation to record work completed, material usage, or production information.
• Use basic math skills to measure, calculate, and verify dimensions, thicknesses, and material quantities.
• Adhere to safety procedures and guidelines at all times, including the correct use of personal protective equipment and tools.
• Collaborate with team members and production staff to meet daily output goals and support smooth workflow across the shop.

• Hands-on experience with sanding, grinding, and polishing in a mechanical or production environment.
• Ability to perform general labor and production tasks, including assembly and material handling.
• Proficiency with hand tools, power tools, drills, and basic fabrication equipment.
• Capability to conduct paint preparation, masking, and surface preparation for finishing processes.
• Experience or comfort operating sandblasting equipment and related finishing tools.
• Basic computer skills for data entry and following digital work instructions.
• Basic math skills for measuring, calculating thickness, and verifying dimensions.
• Mechanically inclined, with the ability to understand how parts fit and function within assemblies.
• Ability to read and follow blueprints or simple technical drawings.
• Comfort with operating a forklift or willingness to learn, following all safety guidelines.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure consistent quality and accurate measurements.
• Reliability and ability to work productively on a first-shift schedule.

• Experience in a production, manufacturing, construction, or fabrication environment.
• Background in general labor roles involving material handling and equipment operation.
• Familiarity with inventory processes such as counting, organizing, and tracking materials.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with a small team.
• Comfort working with various mechanical equipment and learning new tools and processes.
• Strong work ethic and willingness to take on a variety of tasks to support production goals.

You join a smaller, close-knit team where your contributions are visible and valued, with ample opportunity for growth as you develop your skills. The schedule is limited to first-shift hours, supporting a more predictable work-life balance and consistent routine.

The role is based in a non-climate-controlled production environment where you work around mechanical equipment, hand tools, power tools, sandblasting equipment, and forklifts. You can expect an active, hands-on setting with exposure to dust, noise, and varying temperatures typical of a shop or manufacturing floor. Safety gear and appropriate work attire are important to stay comfortable and protected while performing sanding, grinding, polishing, and other mechanical tasks throughout the shift.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Birmingham, AL.

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $20.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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)

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Birmingham, AL.

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 30, 2026.

This is a fully onsite position in Birmingham,AL.

Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.