Loader Operator

Loader Operator Metal Fabrication Shop

This role supports a busy metal fabrication shop that produces metal roofing, siding, and trim for large buildings. You will operate equipment, handle sheet metal, and assist with loading, packaging, and preparing products for shipment. The position involves working in different production areas, including trim, purlin, and loading, and requires strong attention to detail, a safety-first mindset, and the physical ability to handle sheet metal throughout the shift.

Responsibilities

• Operate equipment and machinery in a metal fabrication shop to support the production of metal roofing, siding, and trim components.
• Load sheet metal into trim machines and operate the machines to form trim for buildings according to specifications.
• Use a tape measure to verify measurements and ensure products meet required dimensions and quality standards.
• Perform visual quality checks on finished metal products to identify defects or inaccuracies and take corrective action when needed.
• Handle, lift, and move sheet metal products weighing approximately 50-60 pounds on a regular basis in the purlin and production areas.
• Assist in preparing the frame components of buildings by handling and staging purlins and related materials.
• Use a banding gun to palletize orders and secure bundles of sheet metal and other products for safe transport.
• Apply straps and other securing materials to attach products to pallets and prepare them for loading onto trucks.
• Bundle sheet metal for shipment, ensuring that all items are properly wrapped, protected, and labeled.
• Load and unload trucks with sheet metal and related materials, supporting efficient shipping and receiving operations.
• Perform general production, assembly, and packaging tasks as needed to support overall manufacturing output.
• Use basic hand tools and equipment in a safe and efficient manner for cutting, bending, and handling sheet metal.
• Follow all safety procedures and guidelines in a manufacturing environment, including proper lifting techniques and equipment use.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area and assist with general labor tasks throughout the shop.
• Collaborate with team members, communicate issues, and help solve problems that may arise during production or loading.

Essential Skills

• Experience working in a manufacturing or production environment, preferably with metal fabrication or sheet metal handling.
• Ability to read and use a tape measure accurately to confirm product dimensions.
• Basic math skills to verify measurements and quantities.
• Physical ability to stand and work on your feet for an entire shift.
• Physical ability to regularly lift and handle sheet metal products weighing approximately 50-60 pounds.
• Comfort working with sheet metal, including cutting, bending, and general fabrication tasks.
• Ability to operate or learn to operate machines and equipment used in metal fabrication and general production.
• Strong focus on safety and willingness to follow all safety procedures in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to perform general labor, loading, unloading, and packaging tasks.
• Problem-solving mindset with the ability to identify and address basic production or quality issues.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in a metal fabrication shop or sheet metal fabrication environment.
• Experience in construction, general labor, or loader/unloader roles.
• Familiarity with machine operation and machine setup in a manufacturing setting.
• Experience using hand tools and basic power tools safely.
• Exposure to industrial overhead crane operations or supervisory experience in metal fabrication is beneficial but not required.
• Willingness to learn new skills and cross-train in different areas of production.
• Entry-level candidates with strong work ethic and willingness to learn are welcome and will receive training.

Why Work Here?

Join a stable, family-owned organization that values hands-on work, teamwork, and long-term growth. You will have the opportunity to learn metal fabrication skills, receive on-the-job training, and progress your earnings over time. The culture emphasizes reliability, safety, and support for employees who want to build a career in manufacturing rather than just hold a short-term job.

Work Environment

The role is based in a metal fabrication shop that produces roofing, siding, and trim for large structures. The facility is not temperature controlled, so you will work in conditions that reflect the outdoor climate throughout the year. You will spend most of the day on your feet, lifting and handling sheet metal and working around cutting, bending, and forming equipment. The environment is fast-paced and production-focused, with exposure to typical manufacturing noise and activity. The shop operates multiple shifts: a first shift from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and a second shift from 3:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, with occasional work on Saturdays as needed. The company is willing to train entry-level candidates who are safety-conscious, dependable, and ready to work in a physically demanding, hands-on setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Clinton, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.65 - $19.65/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Clinton, IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 23, 2026.