2nd Shift Fabricator

Skilled Craft Operators (Welder, Fabricator, Machinist,

Break Press, Maintenance &Repair Tech)

Department: Manufacturing/Production
Reports To: Production Supervisor
Location: Stepp Manufacturing
Job Type: Full Time

Position Summary:

The Skilled Craft Operator performs a variety of skilled trades functions across welding, fabrication, machining, press brake operation and plant maintenance.

This role supports flexible staffing needs within Stepp Manufacturing by performing assigned duties in one or more disciplines depending on production priorities, staffing, and skill level.

Welder:

•     Weld, fabricate, and assemble metal components for asphalt manufacturing equipment.

•     Interpret and work from engineering drawings, blueprints, and welding symbols.

•     Set up and operate welding machines (MIG, TIG, flux-core, or stick) and cutting tools.

•     Fit and align parts accurately before welding; verify dimensions and tolerances.

•     Perform grinding, cutting, and finishing on welded parts as required.

•     Inspect welds to ensure conformance to company quality and safety standards.

•    Assist in assembling complete units such as asphalt tanks, mixers, conveyors, or chasses.

•    Operate cranes, hoists, and other material-handling equipment safely.

•    Maintain welding equipment and tools in good working order.

•   All other duties deemed necessary including cross training to work in other roles as         needed to support company goals

Fabricator:

•   Fabricate, assemble, and repair metal structures, chutes, hoppers, conveyors, and other plant components used in asphalt production.

•   Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and schematics to determine material requirements and fabrication procedures.

•   Perform cutting, welding (MIG, TIG, stick), grinding, drilling, and fitting of metal components.

•   Measure, cut, and fit steel plates, pipes, and other materials to precise specifications.

•  Assist with the installation, modification, and alignment of plant equipment.

•   Maintain fabrication tools, welders, torches, grinders, and shop equipment in safe working condition.

•   Collaborate with maintenance and operations teams to identify and repair equipment issues.

•   Perform routine inspections and preventive maintenance on fabricated components and structural elements.

•  All other duties deemed necessary including cross training to work in other roles as         needed to support company goals

Machinist:

•   Set up and operate manual and CNC machine tools such as lathes, milling machines, grinders, and drill presses to fabricate or repair metal parts.

•   Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and mechanical schematics to produce precision components.

•   Machine replacement parts for plant equipment, including shafts, bearings, rollers, bushings, and housings.

•   Inspect finished parts for conformance to specifications using precision measuring tools (micrometers, calipers, gauges).

•   Perform preventive maintenance and repairs on mechanical components and rotating equipment.

•   Collaborate with maintenance and engineering teams to design or improve machine components and assemblies.

•   Modify and adapt existing machinery for improved performance or safety.

•   Maintain accurate records of work performed, parts used, and time spent on each project.

•   All other duties deemed necessary including cross training to work in other roles as         needed to support company goals

Break Press:

• Set up and operate press brake machines to bend and form sheet metal and plate steel according to blueprints and specifications.
• Select, install, and align appropriate tooling, dies, and back gauges for each job.
• Read and interpret fabrication drawings, blueprints, and work orders to determine bend sequences, material requirements, and tolerances.
• Inspect finished parts for dimensional accuracy and surface quality using measuring tools (calipers, protractors, tape measures, etc.).
• Perform basic machine maintenance and ensure equipment is kept clean, safe, and in good working order.
• Collaborate with welders, machinists, and fabricators to support plant equipment repair and construction.
• Adjust machine controls and tooling as needed to achieve precise bends and maintain consistent quality.
• Maintain production and quality records, ensuring all work meets plant and safety standards.
• All other duties deemed necessary including cross training to work in other roles as         needed to support company goals

Maintenance & Repair Tech:

• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on plant equipment such as dryers, conveyors, elevators, pumps, mixers, burners, and asphalt storage systems.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical issues to identify root causes and implement repairs.
• Fabricate, install, and repair metal components including chutes, hoppers, guards, and structural supports.
• Conduct regular inspections to detect wear, damage, or potential failures in equipment.
• Support scheduled plant shutdowns with equipment overhauls and major repairs.
• Assist with the installation and alignment of new machinery and plant upgrades.
• Maintain accurate maintenance logs, repair records, and parts inventory documentation.
• Operate welding, cutting, and machining tools as needed to repair or fabricate replacement parts.
• Work collaboratively with operators, electricians, and supervisors to plan and complete maintenance activities safely and efficiently.
• Respond promptly to emergency breakdowns to restore plant operations.
• All other duties deemed necessary including cross training to work in other roles as         needed to support company goal

Qualifications:

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Vocational or technical training in heavy equipment operation, plant operations, or mechanical maintenance is often preferred.

Experience:

• 2–5 years of experience in asphalt plant operations, road construction, or a related field.
• Proven experience operating heavy equipment (e.g., loaders, pavers, rollers, skid steers, or plant controls).

Licensing/Certification Helpful:

• Valid driver’s license (Commercial Driver’s License – CDL, preferred or required in some roles).
• Equipment operation certification
• OSHA safety certification or MSHA training (if applicable).

Skills & Abilities:

 Attention to Detail:

• Monitor plant operations and detect irregularities (temperature, quality, machine performance).

 Problem-Solving:

• Diagnose and correct production or equipment issues quickly to minimize downtime.

Teamwork & Communication:

• Work effectively with plant operators, coworkers and departments, mechanics, and supervisors.
• Communicate clearly about production challenges, material needs, or safety concerns.

Equipment Operation:

• Operate and maintain asphalt production machinery such as drum and batch plants, conveyors, crushers, and loaders.
• Familiarity with plant control systems, weighing systems, and burner operations.

Mechanical Aptitude:

• Ability to perform basic maintenance and troubleshooting of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems.
• Inspect and repair plant components (belts, bearings, screens, mixers).

Process Knowledge:

• Understanding of asphalt mix design, material handling, and quality control standards.
• Knowledge of temperature, moisture, and blending requirements in asphalt production.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment:

Physical Stamina:

• Ability to work long hours, often in outdoor environments with heat, dust, and noise.
• Lift heavy materials, climb ladders, and stand for extended periods.

Adaptability:

• Work in varying weather conditions and adjust to changing production demands or shift schedules.
• Loud work environment with a range of noise producers for various amounts of time.
• Follow all plant safety procedures, PPE requirements, and OSHA standards.

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this position. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Stepp Manufacturing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law