Fabrication Machine Operator

Fabrication Machine Operator – Press Brake, Plate Roll & Saw

Industrial Metal Fabrication, Inc. | Newton, KS

Full-Time | Monday–Thursday | 6:00 AM–4:30 PM | 4-Day Workweek

Join Our Custom Steel Fabrication Team

Industrial Metal Fabrication, Inc. (IMF) is seeking a dependable, mechanically skilled Fabrication Machine Operator to join our custom steel fabrication team in Newton, Kansas.

We are looking for someone with hands-on experience operating industrial fabrication equipment, including press brakes, plate rolls, band saws, drill presses, and ironworkers.

Unlike repetitive production environments, our custom fabrication shop offers a variety of projects requiring precision, problem-solving, mechanical aptitude, and attention to detail.

The ideal candidate takes pride in quality workmanship, works independently, follows through on assigned tasks, and understands the importance of safety, accuracy, and productivity.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Operation & Metal Fabrication

• Set up and operate fabrication equipment, including press brakes, plate rolls, band saws, drill presses, and ironworkers.
• Perform metal forming, rolling, bending, cutting, drilling, and material preparation according to job specifications.
• Use hand tools, power tools, cutting torches, grinders, punches, and measuring instruments.
• Prepare, fit, and process steel components for subsequent fabrication and assembly operations.
• Maintain consistent workflow while meeting quality standards and production deadlines.

Blueprint Reading & Quality Control

• Read and interpret blueprints, fabrication drawings, job orders, and work instructions.
• Verify material dimensions, part quantities, and specifications before beginning work.
• Inspect fabricated components for dimensional accuracy, defects, and workmanship.
• Identify and communicate drawing discrepancies, material issues, or fabrication concerns to the Shop Foreman.
• Coordinate with Quality Control for required inspections before advancing parts to the next operation.
• Properly identify, tag, and stage completed components by job and part number.

Safety & Shop Operations

• Safely operate forklifts, overhead hoists, lifting equipment, and material-handling tools as authorized.
• Follow established safety procedures and consistently use required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area.
• Assist with material handling, insulation work, and other fabrication support tasks as assigned.
• Work collaboratively with welders, fabricators, and shop leadership to maintain project schedules.

Required Qualifications

• Hands-on experience operating industrial machinery or metal fabrication equipment.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to use measuring tools accurately.
• Ability to read and follow work instructions, measurements, and fabrication specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.
• Ability to work independently, manage assigned tasks, and maintain productivity.
• Dependable attendance, strong work ethic, and commitment to workplace safety.
• Willingness to work overtime when operationally necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1–2+ years of experience in a steel fabrication, metalworking, welding, or industrial manufacturing environment.
• Experience operating press brakes, plate rolls, saws, drill presses, or ironworkers.
• Ability to read and interpret fabrication blueprints and shop drawings.
• Experience with structural steel, plate steel, or custom metal fabrication.
• Familiarity with forklifts, overhead cranes, hoists, and rigging practices.
• Technical training in machining, manufacturing, or metal fabrication.

Candidates with strong mechanical aptitude and experience operating similar industrial equipment are encouraged to apply.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to stand and work on your feet for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and maneuver materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, reaching, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
• Ability to work safely in an industrial fabrication environment with seasonal temperature variations.
• Must wear required PPE, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and safety-toe footwear.

Benefits & Perks

Health & Insurance

• Company-paid employee health insurance coverage.
• Dependent health coverage available with employee contribution.
• Dental insurance available for employees and families.
• $25,000 company-paid life insurance.
• Optional additional life insurance coverage.

Retirement & Paid Time Off

• SIMPLE IRA with up to 3% company match.
• 7 paid holidays.
• 80 hours of paid vacation after one year of service.

Additional Benefits

• 4-day workweek — Monday through Thursday.
• $100 annual clothing allowance.
• Company-paid uniforms.
• Company-sponsored training and professional certifications.
• Opportunities to develop additional fabrication and equipment-operation skills.

Work Schedule

Monday–Thursday | 6:00 AM–4:30 PM

Full-time, in-person position at our Newton, Kansas facility. Overtime may be required based on workload and operational demands.

Why Work at Industrial Metal Fabrication?

IMF is a family-operated custom steel fabrication company that values precision, accountability, integrity, and consistent workmanship.

Our team works on a variety of custom fabrication projects, providing opportunities to develop technical skills beyond repetitive production work.

We are looking for individuals who take ownership of their responsibilities, solve problems, work safely, and take pride in getting the job done right.

If you have experience in metal fabrication, press brake operation, plate rolling, or industrial machine operation, we encourage you to apply.

This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties or responsibilities. Job requirements and assignments may change based on operational needs.

Industrial Metal Fabrication, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.