Fabrication Machine Operator

KELE INC • Bartlett, TN

6d • Onsite

About The Position

Kele Inc. is seeking a Fabrication Machine Operator to operate and support automated material fabrication equipment, specifically nVent Hoffman ModCenter series machines. This role is crucial for fabricating electrical enclosures, panels, and related components. The operator will be responsible for executing machining operations, ensuring dimensional accuracy, maintaining equipment performance, and meeting production output, quality, and schedule requirements. Kele Inc. is a leading distribution and solutions partner with a national reach and global presence, founded in 1983 and headquartered in Tennessee. They provide millions of in-stock parts from over 300 brands to drive automation and efficiency in various facilities. Their goal is to empower progress for maintenance managers, engineers, contractors, and builders by delivering parts rapidly, offering custom assemblies, and providing unmatched support. Kele fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and customer obsession.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, panel layouts, and technical work instructions.
• Ability to create, review and edit CAD-generated files and CNC program structure.
• Strong understanding of material handling, fixturing, alignment, and tool usage.
• Ability to troubleshoot basic machine or process issues.
• Skilled in using measuring tools (calipers, rulers, gauges) to verify part accuracy.
• Attention to detail in identifying defects and maintaining quality standards.
• Ability to manage time and prioritize tasks to meet production schedules.
• Consistent execution with a focus on accuracy and repeatability.
• Ability to work with ERP/WMS systems for job tracking and documentation.
• Basic computer skills (file handling, program selection, data entry).
• Ability to recognize discrepancies, make routine adjustments, and escalate complex issues.
• Logical approach to troubleshooting machining or setup problems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel).
• Ability to learn and utilize ERP/WMS systems, CAD style programs, and other similar systems as needed.
• Basic understanding of part numbers, BOMs, and inventory location systems.
• Regularly required to stand, walk, bend, reach, and lift.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds routinely.
• Requires close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure.
• Ability to calculate quantities, verify counts, and interpret basic measurements.
• Ability to identify discrepancies, resolve routine problems, and escalate exceptions appropriately.
• Capable of prioritizing tasks to meet daily production and delivery schedules.

Nice To Haves

• Additional position related technical training or certifications are preferred.
• Two to three years of related experience operating industrial equipment and/or building low voltage control panels preferred.
• Hands-on ability to operate CNC equipment, preferably the nVent ModCenter or similar machining centers.
• Understanding of machining processes including drilling, tapping, and milling.
• Frequent contact in person, via phone, and email with employees across production, engineering, and other teams. Requires professionalism, responsiveness, and clear communication.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, technical documents, and standard operating procedures.
• Ability to communicate clearly with internal teams.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate automated material fabrication equipment, including nVent Hoffman ModCenter series machines to perform enclosure modifications including drilling, tapping, milling, cutouts, and marking.
• Load, align, fixture, and secure enclosures, panels, doors, and mounting plates for machining.
• Verify program setup and confirm correct CAD/CNC file selection prior to cycle start.
• Execute machining cycles while monitoring performance and output quality.
• Review work orders, engineering drawings, and CAD/CNC files to understand part requirements, dimensions, and machining sequences.
• Validate material type, orientation, and setup requirements before processing.
• Adjust setups or escalate issues when discrepancies are identified.
• Perform in-process and final inspections to verify dimensional accuracy, hole placement and cutout precision, and thread quality and finish.
• Identify defects or deviations and take corrective action or escalate as needed.
• Meet daily and weekly production targets while maintaining quality standards.
• Organize, label, and stage completed parts for downstream operations.
• Maintain accurate production and inspection records.
• Perform routine startup, shutdown, and preventive maintenance tasks.
• Monitor tooling condition and machine performance; identify wear, breakage, or abnormal operation.
• Maintain machine cleanliness, including chip removal and debris management.
• Follow all safety procedures including machine guarding and lockout/tagout.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area.
• Identify opportunities to improve setup time, throughput, accuracy, and waste reduction.
• Support process improvements related to CNC programming, fixturing, and workflow.
• Perform general manufacturing and panel operations duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• HSA
• FSA (medical and dependent care)
• 401(k) with employer match up to 4% with immediate vesting
• Employer-paid short- and long-term disability coverage
• Employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance; supplemental life for employees and dependents available
• Paid time off and paid holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED