Manufacturing Associate 1st/2nd Shift

Manufacturing Operator – Houston Plant (Multiple Departments)
Full-Time | Climate varies by department | Hands-on, fast-paced environment

About the Opportunity

We’re hiring reliable, hands-on Manufacturing Operators to support production in several departments at our Houston plant, including GBW, Vinyl, Wire Draw, and Weaving. If you enjoy mechanical work, staying active throughout the day, and being part of a team that values safety, quality, and growth — this could be the perfect fit.

We train you on the job and help you build your skills over time. Many of our operators grow into advanced roles with higher pay and expanded responsibilities.

What You’ll Do

Depending on the department, you may:

• Operate, adjust, or support machinery in a fast‐paced production environment.
• Use basic hand tools and learn measurement tools such as micrometers and gauges.
• Move, inspect, or prepare wire, metal materials, or finished products.
• Thread, load, or remove product from machines.
• Perform simple troubleshooting, safe line stops, or basic adjustments after training.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area while following all safety procedures.
• Rotate between stations or machine areas (department dependent).

What Makes Someone Successful Here

From all four departments, successful operators share these strengths:

Hands-On & Mechanical

• Comfortable using tools and learning new mechanical tasks.
• Curious about machinery, equipment, and production processes.

Safety-Focused

• Follows PPE requirements, understands hazards, and reports concerns immediately.
• Works carefully around heat, moving machinery, or rotating equipment.

Physically Ready

• Able to stand for 12 hours.
• Comfortable working in hot or noisy industrial environments.
• Can lift/move materials such as wire stands.

Reliable & Coachable

• Shows consistent attendance and teamwork.
• Pays attention to detail and follows instructions.

Basic Requirements

• Experience in manufacturing, warehouse, construction, or other hands-on labor is helpful — but we will train motivated candidates.
• Ability to work a 12‐hour shift schedule (AM/PM depends on department).
• Willingness to learn micrometers, measurements, and wire identification (trainable).

Why Join Us

• Full training provided
• Opportunities to grow into advanced operator levels
• Fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Safety-first culture
• Competitive pay & overtime opportunities

Starting pay is $15–$16/hr with consistent hours and a clear progression plan that increases your pay as you build new skills.

About Merchants Metals

We’re one of the largest manufacturers and distributors of fence systems in North America. With 35 distribution center locations, four manufacturing facilities, and a 60-year legacy of providing quality fencing and accessories, Merchants Metals continues to be the contractor and architect choice for excellence. Our complete line of products includes perimeter security solutions for industrial, commercial, and residential applications.