Saw Operator

Job Title: Metal Saw Machine Operator

Job Description

The 1st shift Saw Operator sets up and operates metal-sawing equipment to cut flat steel stock to precise customer specifications. You will read shop routings and blueprints, use a standard tape measure to 1/32 of an inch, and work with a computer interface to select and program cutting requirements. The position involves producing round and square steel pieces, ensuring each part meets exact dimensions and quality standards while maintaining a safe, clean, and efficient work area.

Responsibilities

• Read work orders and shop routings to determine material type, stock size, and dimensions to be cut.
• Interpret cutting layouts, hole locations, and final part requirements.
• Use a computer to select the correct product and blueprint, and program cutting details, including any required holes in the steel.
• Obtain and transfer steel stock to the saw machine manually or with a hoist, ensuring safe handling at all times.
• Install or adjust saw blades and set blade tension and cutting speed according to the material and operation requirements.
• Set saw blade angles to achieve required angle cuts using appropriate hand tools such as wrenches.
• Set stops and guides to control cut dimensions using a steel rule and wrenches, ensuring repeatable accuracy.
• Position and secure stock against stops or in feeding devices so that material remains stable during cutting.
• Turn valves to start and regulate the flow of coolant to the cutting area to protect blades and improve cut quality.
• Start and monitor machine operations, observing performance and making adjustments as needed to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Measure finished workpieces with a tape measure or rule to verify conformance to specifications and tolerances.
• Mark identifying data on workpieces for traceability and proper routing to subsequent operations.
• Replace defective or worn cutting blades or wheels using hand tools, following safe lockout and maintenance practices.
• Inspect and measure parts regularly to maintain quality control and identify any deviations early.
• Communicate clearly with coworkers and supervisors to receive instructions, clarify requirements, and coordinate workflow.
• Follow all safety rules, including proper use of personal protective equipment, and maintain a clean and orderly work area.
• Record daily attendance and production information accurately in the timekeeping system.
• Adhere diligently and consistently to all company policies and procedures.
• Perform physical labor, including standing for long periods, moving equipment, and handling materials throughout the shift.
• Carry out other duties as assigned to support overall production and shop operations.

Essential Skills

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and shop routings accurately.
• Proficiency using a standard tape measure to 1/32 of an inch for precise measurement.
• Experience operating metal-sawing machines or similar machine operation in a manufacturing environment.
• Basic computer skills to select products, load blueprints, and program cutting requirements.
• Ability to perform physical labor, including standing for extended periods and handling steel stock.
• Comfort working in a manufacturing shop environment with noise, fumes, dust, and varying temperatures.
• Willingness to perform hands-on work and not be afraid to get dirty.
• Experience operating a forklift or willingness to operate a forklift as part of daily duties.
• Ability to follow safety procedures and maintain a clean, organized work area.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain quality standards through accurate measurements and inspections.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with saw operation in an industrial or fabrication setting.
• Familiarity with basic hand tools such as wrenches and steel rules for machine setup and adjustments.
• Comfort working with hoists or material handling equipment to move steel stock.
• Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and supervisors to coordinate tasks and resolve issues.
• Flexibility to work occasional extended shifts and Saturdays when production needs require it.

Why Work Here?

The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports both your health and your future, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage. A 401(k) plan with a competitive company match is available after a short waiting period, helping you build long-term financial security. Paid vacation and PTO are provided, with pro-rated benefits in the first year and ongoing accrual thereafter. You also receive eight paid holidays plus two additional floating holidays, giving you extra flexibility for personal time. The company values a steady daytime schedule while offering some flexibility in hours, and it fosters a supportive environment where safety, quality, and teamwork are priorities.

Work Environment

Work takes place on a manufacturing shop floor in a historic, well-lit building with character and many windows. Temperatures can vary with the seasons and may not always be fully controlled; in warmer months, fans and open doors help with airflow, and cold drinks and frozen treats are provided to help keep workers comfortable. The environment includes typical industrial conditions such as noise, fumes, dust, mists, moving equipment, and operating machine parts, and you will be on your feet for most of the shift. Standard hours are Monday through Friday from 5:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with flexibility to work 10-hour days when needed and up to a maximum of 8 hours on Saturdays as production demands; some days may start at 6:00 a.m. The role involves regular use of metal-sawing machines, basic hand tools, forklifts, hoists, and computer interfaces to manage cutting operations, all within a safety-focused, production-oriented setting.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Rockford, IL.

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $23.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Rockford,IL.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 1, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.