Saw Operator

Key Responsibilities

• Setup & Operation: Select, set up, adjust, and safely operate industrial metal saws to cut materials according to specific job orders and production schedules.
• Blueprint Reading: Interpret engineering drawings, bills of materials (BOM), and job travelers to ensure all cuts meet exact length, angle, and tolerance specifications.
• Quality Control: Inspect incoming raw materials for defects prior to cutting. Measure and verify completed cuts using tape measures, calipers, or micrometers to detect imperfections and ensure strict conformance.
• Material Management: Pull, sort, and organize raw materials from inventory; ensure completed parts are accurately counted, grouped, and routed to the next stage of production (welding/machining).
• Equipment Maintenance: Perform daily pre-use inspections of machinery. Clean and lubricate equipment, adjust blade speed/tension, and replace worn or defective saw blades as needed.
• Safety & Housekeeping: Adhere strictly to OSHA standards and company safety procedures, including the proper use of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) guidelines. Maintain a clean, orderly, and hazard-free workspace.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional vocational training or certification in fabrication or related field is preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality workmanship with precision and accuracy.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and/or work instructions to execute fabrication tasks effectively.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively within a diverse team environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, with knowledge of safety protocols and procedures in a manufacturing setting.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities, production demands, and workflow fluctuations in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Physical Demands

• Pushing and Pulling: Push/pull limits may vary depending on the weight and dimensions of the materials being handled, but operators should be capable of exerting significant force when necessary.
• Lifting and Carrying: While not the primary responsibility, the operator may occasionally need to lift and carry materials or tools associated with setting up or maintaining the plasma table or brake press. Lift/carry limits should be within a safe range to prevent injury, typically adhering to OSHA guidelines for manual lifting.
• Operating Controls: Using the controls of the saw requires precise hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Operators should be able to manipulate buttons, levers, and touchscreens with accuracy and ease.
• Standing and Walking: The operator will spend a significant amount of time standing and walking around the work area to set up materials, monitor the operation of the equipment, and perform inspections.
• Bending and Stooping: Setting up materials may require bending, stooping, or kneeling. Operators should be capable of performing these movements safely and without discomfort.
• Repetitive Motions: Operating the saw may involve repetitive motions, such as loading materials, adjusting settings, or removing finished parts. Adequate ergonomic training and equipment may be provided to minimize the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
• Safety Gear: Operators are typically required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection. PPE should be worn consistently and properly to ensure maximum protection against hazards associated with saw cutting and metalworking.
• Temperature Extremes: The work area will be subject to temperature extremes due to the operation of equipment or environmental conditions. Operators should be able to work safely in these conditions and may be provided with climate control measures or appropriate clothing.
• Noise Levels: The operation of the saw can generate significant noise levels, requiring the use of hearing protection. Operators should be comfortable working in a loud environment and attentive to communication signals or alarms.