Manufacturing General Laborer

The General Laborer is a critical support role within the shop, responsible for performing a variety of tasks to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the production floor. This position focuses on material handling, shop organization, equipment support, and general labor to assist skilled fabricators, welders, and machinists. The ideal candidate is safety-conscious, reliable, and possesses a strong work ethic.

Material Preparation, Handling & Movement:

• Safely load, unload, and move raw materials (metal sheets, tubes, stainless steel, etc.), finished parts, and equipment using appropriate methods (manual, pallet jack and forklift).

• Transport materials and components between work areas, storage areas, and loading docks.

• Reading and interpreting prints, engineering drawings, or work orders to determine specifications and requirements for the fabrication process.

• Preparing materials by cutting, shaping, drilling, sanding, blasting and weld cleaning.

Shop Organization & Cleanliness:

• Perform routine shop cleaning, including sweeping, and removal of metal scraps, dust, and debris.

• Organize and maintain storage areas, tool cribs, and workstations.

• Properly dispose of waste materials (e.g., scrap metal, used consumables) according to company and environmental guidelines.

Equipment & Machine Support:

• Perform basic setup and cleanup of fabrication machinery (saws, shears, press brakes, rollers) as directed.

• Assist operators with feeding material and removing finished parts from machines.

• Conduct basic preventative maintenance tasks, such as lubrication and cleaning of equipment.

Production Support:

• Assist skilled tradespeople (welders, fabricators, assemblers) with tasks such as holding, positioning, and clamping parts.

• Perform basic grinding, deburring, and finishing of metal parts using hand tools (grinders, sanders, files).

• Use basic measurement tools (tape measure, calipers) for simple verification tasks.

• May operate basic fabrication equipment with proper training and under supervision.

Quality Control & Safety:

• Adhere to all company safety policies, procedures, and OSHA regulations.

• Properly use and maintain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – safety glasses, steel-toed boots, hearing protection, gloves, etc.

• Conduct visual inspections and measurements to ensure that parts meet required specifications and quality standards.

• Identify and address any defects or discrepancies making adjustments or repairs.

Other Duties:

• Assist with inventory counts and stock organization.

• Perform minor repairs and maintenance on shop fixtures and tools.

• Follow written and verbal instructions from supervisors.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent preferred.

• Previous experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, construction, or fabrication environment is a plus, but not required. Willingness to learn is essential.

• Forklift certification is a plus, or ability to obtain certification.

Skills & Abilities:

• Physical Stamina & Strength: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including frequent lifting (up to 50 lbs.), carrying, pushing, pulling, bending, and standing for extended periods.

• Mechanical Aptitude: Basic understanding of tools and machinery.

• Teamwork: Ability to work effectively as part of a team and take direction well.

• Initiative: Self-motivated with a strong work ethic and attention to detail.

• Safety-Minded: A paramount commitment to working safely.

• Reliability: Punctual, dependable, and able to work scheduled hours, which may include overtime as needed.