At VanderWall Brothers, we have a solid foundation for building a bright future in West Michigan, fully equipped to meet the evolving construction needs of our customers. We specialize in fireplaces, stone, masonry supplies, and concrete blocks. Our state-of-the-art concrete block manufacturing facility is complemented by an on-site masonry retail supply store. Furthermore, we proudly lead the lakeshore market in the sales, installation, and service of fireplaces, wood and gas stoves, fireplace inserts, and pellet stoves.

About the Role:

The Block Plant - Machine Operator plays a critical role in the manufacturing process by setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery that produces concrete blocks and related products. This position ensures that production runs efficiently, safely, and meets quality standards by closely monitoring equipment performance and making necessary adjustments. The operator is responsible for setting up machines, conducting routine inspections, and troubleshooting any mechanical issues to minimize downtime. Collaboration with the production team is essential to coordinate workflow and meet daily production targets. Ultimately, this role contributes directly to the consistent delivery of high-quality building materials that support construction projects across various sectors.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Experience specifically with block plant or concrete manufacturing equipment
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot equipment issues
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and safety procedures
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and perform manual tasks
• Ability to lift 50 lbs

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in Tiger Equipment
• Familiarity with quality control standards in manufacturing
• Basic computer skills for logging production data
• Strong communication skills to effectively coordinate with team members

Responsibilities:

• Operate block manufacturing machinery according to established procedures and safety guidelines
• Set up and adjust equipment to ensure proper functioning and product specifications are met
• Monitor machine operations continuously, identifying and resolving mechanical or operational issues promptly
• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of machinery to maintain optimal performance and prevent breakdowns
• Inspect finished products for quality assurance and report any deviations or defects to supervisors
• Maintain accurate production logs and report daily output and any incidents or delays
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to optimize production processes and meet deadlines
• Adhere strictly to all safety protocols and participate in safety training sessions

Skills:

The required skills enable the operator to efficiently manage and control block production machinery, ensuring smooth and safe operations throughout the shift. Mechanical aptitude is essential for diagnosing and resolving equipment malfunctions quickly, minimizing production downtime. Attention to detail is critical when inspecting products and maintaining quality standards, preventing defective items from reaching customers. Communication skills facilitate effective collaboration with supervisors and team members to optimize workflow and address any operational challenges. Preferred skills, such as familiarity with specific block plant equipment and basic computer literacy, enhance the operator's ability to adapt to technological tools and contribute to continuous process improvements.