Fabrication Machine Operator

Job DetailsJob Location: Memphis, TN 38133Founded in 1983, Kele Inc. is a leading distribution, and solutions partner with national reach and a global presence. Built around our customers and powered by our people, Kele provides millions of in-stock parts from more than 300 brands to drive automation & efficiency in nearly every type of facility, from office towers and factories to data centers and hospitals. Our goal is to empower progress for maintenance managers, engineers, contractors, and all those building the future. We do this by delivering parts rapidly, providing custom assemblies upstream, and offering unmatched support to ensure projects run smoothly and downtime is minimized. With 12 locations nationwide and headquarters in Tennessee, Kele combines deep technical expertise, rapid logistics, and a solutions-first mindset to help customers simplify supply chains, meet tight schedules, and deliver high-quality outcomes. Kele fosters a culture rooted in collaboration, innovation, and customer obsession, empowering associates at every level to contribute, grow, and make a meaningful impact.   We are currently hiring for the role of Fabrication Machine Operator.   SUMMARY Operate and support the automated material fabrication equipment, including nVent Hoffman ModCenter series machines to fabricate electrical enclosures, panels, and related components. This role is responsible for executing machining operations, ensuring dimensional accuracy, maintaining equipment performance, and delivering production output that meets quality and schedule requirements.   Essential Duties & Responsibilities Machine Operation & Setup 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.   Job Preparation & Execution 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.   Quality Control Perform in-process and final inspections to verify: Dimensional accuracy Hole placement and cutout precision Thread quality and finish Identify defects or deviations and take corrective action or escalate as needed.   Production & Workflow Management 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.   Machine Maintenance & Monitoring 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.   Safety & Work Environment Follow all safety procedures including machine guarding and lockout/tagout. Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area.   Continuous Improvement Identify opportunities to improve setup time, throughput, accuracy, and waste reduction. Support process improvements related to CNC programming, fixturing, and workflow.   Manufacturing / Panel Operations Support General manufacturing and panel operations duties as assigned.   Key Skills & Capabilities CNC Machine Operation Hands-on ability to operate CNC equipment, preferably the nVent ModCenter or similar machining centers. Understanding of machining processes including drilling, tapping, and milling.   Blueprint & CAD Interpretation 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.   Mechanical Aptitude Strong understanding of material handling, fixturing, alignment, and tool usage. Ability to troubleshoot basic machine or process issues.   Quality Inspection Skilled in using measuring tools (calipers, rulers, gauges) to verify part accuracy. Attention to detail in identifying defects and maintaining quality standards.   Production Execution Ability to manage time and prioritize tasks to meet production schedules. Consistent execution with a focus on accuracy and repeatability.   Basic Technical Systems Ability to work with ERP/WMS systems for job tracking and documentation. Basic computer skills (file handling, program selection, data entry).   Problem Solving & Judgment Ability to recognize discrepancies, make routine adjustments, and escalate complex issues. Logical approach to troubleshooting machining or setup problems. Requirements / Experience Education Requirement Level 2: High school diploma or GED required. Additional position related technical training or certifications are preferred.   Workplace Experience Two to three years of related experience operating industrial equipment and/or building low voltage control panels preferred.   Contact With Others Frequent contact in person, via phone, and email with employees across production, engineering, and other teams. Requires professionalism, responsiveness, and clear communication.   Language Skills Ability to read and interpret drawings, technical documents, and standard operating procedures. Ability to communicate clearly with internal teams.   Mathematical Skills Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure. Ability to calculate quantities, verify counts, and interpret basic measurements.   Reasoning Ability Ability to identify discrepancies, resolve routine problems, and escalate exceptions appropriately. Capable of prioritizing tasks to meet daily production and delivery schedules.   Technical Proficiency 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.   Physical Requirements 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.   Kele Companies offers all full-time associates the following benefits and perks: 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 Qualifications