Tube Line Machine Operator III

About the Role

Valmont impacts millions of people around the world every day through advanced agricultural productivity and vital infrastructure solutions. As a Tube Line Operator III at our Brenham, TX facility, you will work under the direction of the Production Supervisor or Lead Person, setting up and operating equipment for shearing, forming, burnishing, buffing, straightening, and cutting tubes produced on the Big Wheel line. You will also assist in other areas to gain knowledge of the entire process.

Schedule

Standard schedule: Monday – Friday, 3 PM – 11 PM (2nd shift). As needed, work hours may extend beyond this schedule.

Pay

Starting hourly pay rate: $25.26 plus a $1.00 per hour shift differential. Opportunity for step pay increases at 90 days, 1 year, and 2 years. Eligible for annual discretionary bonus.

Responsibilities

• Perform set-ups for Shear, Former, Burnisher, Straightener, and Cut Off to ensure optimal performance.
• Adjust hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, and electrical devices.
• Initiate manual and auto cycles from manual controls or PLC touch panel.
• Use pneumatic-powered tools to buff/grind product to specification.
• Repair split seams using SMAW/Stick and GMAW/Gas Metal Arc welding.
• Set up the Straightener, ensuring hold-down cables and roller supports are correctly positioned for varying tube sizes.
• Inspect products per Valmont and industry standards, performing close visual inspections for discontinuities.
• Maintain all equipment in proper working condition, including regular preventative maintenance.
• Notify Supervisor or Lead Person when assistance is required for maintenance or repairs beyond your capabilities.
• Assist Maintenance personnel with repairs and set-ups of other production equipment as directed.
• Maintain cleanliness in assigned areas and support the housekeeping program throughout the Tube Mill.
• Operate a forklift to move materials within shop areas.
• Operate various machines, including the former and shear.
• Perform additional duties as requested to meet customer needs and maintain a productive, safe, and efficient working environment.
• Record and maintain data for setups, inspections, and product documentation.
• Maintain safety awareness and address unsafe conditions promptly.

Requirements

• Minimum of 1 to 2 years of machine operation experience.
• Ability to perform basic math functions (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division).
• Pass a forklift test administered by Valmont’s safety department.
• Ability to read a tape measure.
• Ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines.
• Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to solve practical problems.

Qualifications

For Tube Line Former Operator:

• Read and write clearly.
• Basic math skills.
• Ability to read O.D. tape and tape measure.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

For Tube Line Shear Line Operator:

• Read and write clearly.
• Basic math skills.
• Ability to read O.D. tape and tape measure.
• Ability to use a micrometer.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.

For Burnisher/Buffer/Straightener/Cut Off Operator:

• Read and write clearly.
• Basic math skills.
• Ability to read O.D. tape and tape measure.
• Certified in GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Ability to operate Buff line, Saw, Straightener, and Burnisher.

Preferred Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• 2+ years of experience operating manufacturing machinery.
• Previous hands-on welding experience in a professional environment, including welding repairs for seam splits.
• One year of experience in a manufacturing or fabrication environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Leadership skills and ability to support divisional business objectives.
• Experience operating an overhead crane.
• Experience with Lean manufacturing methodology.

Working Conditions

• Indoor shop environment with temperatures ranging from 50°F in winter to 100°F in summer.
• Exposure to disagreeable working conditions, including wind, cold, heat, dust, dirt, fumes, noise, vibration, water, or oil.
• Regular exposure to electrical hazards, grease, loud noises, and outside elements.
• Safety glasses, hearing protection, and metatarsal safety shoes are required at all times.
• Must be able to stand for the entire work shift within the shop environment.
• Must wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) for the production facility.

Hazards

• Handling metal objects with sharp edges.
• Potential for injury from slips, falls, strains, pinch points, tripping hazards, shot blasting equipment, high-pressure air nozzles, and material handling equipment.

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare (medical, prescription drugs, dental, and vision).
• 401k retirement plan with company match.
• Paid time off.
• Employer-paid life insurance.
• Employer-paid short-term and long-term disability, including maternity leave.
• Work-life support services.
• Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 per year.
• Voluntary programs, including tobacco cessation, Type 2 diabetes reversal, one-on-one health coaching, and mortgage services.