Structural Equipment Operator
$52,000–$93,600 year
On-sitePortsmouth, Virginia, United States
Job Summary
Set up and operate shop fabrication and machining equipment, including press brakes, CNC plasma tables, waterjet machines, and milling machines, to produce components meeting naval specifications. Interpret complex blueprints and schematics to determine cutting paths and machine settings, then create and adjust layouts using CAD software. Safely load materials with forklifts, perform in-process quality inspections with precision tools, and conduct routine maintenance and troubleshooting on all machinery. Adhere strictly to safety protocols while communicating project status and improvements to supervisors.
Required Qualifications
- High school graduate, or GED
- Six months to one-year related experience and/or training
- Strong ability to read and interpret complex blueprints and schematics
- Understanding of materials, thickness tolerances, and fabrication behavior across varying metals
- Excellent manual dexterity, attention to detail, and the ability to stand for long periods, lift materials up to 50 lbs, and work in a workshop environment
- Knowledge and adherence to safety practices related to operating industrial machinery, working with high-pressure water jets, plasma systems, and handling hazardous materials
- Strong troubleshooting skills, with the ability to identify, diagnose, and resolve issues that arise during the cutting process
- Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with the supervision and team members
- Strong mathematical abilities, including understanding measurements, conversions, and geometric calculations for precise cutting and layout
- Experience in safely operating forklifts or other material-handling equipment in a manufacturing environment
- Skilled in the use of power tools and general shop equipment, ensuring safe and efficient operation
- Proficiency in CAD or other 2D & 3D drawing software
- Ability to use precision measurement tools (e.g., calipers, tape measures) to ensure accurate cuts
- Must be able to effectively lead and coach others
Desired Qualifications
- Previous experience with CNC water jet and plasma cutting systems
- Experience using and/or programming manual, semi-automated, or automated machines such as CNC mills or lathes
- Completion of a vocational school program or apprenticeship related to CNC machine operation, fabrication, or welding
- High school graduate, or GED preferred
- Six months to one-year related experience and/or training
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