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Fabrication & Finishing Operator (1st Shift)

Valmet · Waukesha, WI · $20.00–$30.00 an hour · Full time

Posted Oct 1, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about your experience with grinding, machining or CNC equipment.

What they are checking: Whether they have the hands-on background to run finishing equipment, or can learn it quickly.

Tell me about a time you made a mistake on a machine. What did you learn?

What they are checking: Whether they own mistakes and learn from them, which matters on expensive precision parts.

What interests you about cross-training on other equipment?

What they are checking: Whether they want to grow their skills, which Valmet says it supports with training.

How do you stay focused on quality when running similar parts all day?

What they are checking: Whether they keep attention steady so small errors do not slip through on precision paper industry parts.

What would you do

You measure a finished part and it is just outside the tolerance on the drawing. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they stop and report it rather than passing it along and hoping it is fine.

Your teammate is struggling to hit a spec on a job you have done before. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they help teammates and share knowledge, which the team-focused role values.

About the work

How do you use calipers and micrometers to check a part, and how do you know your reading is right?

What they are checking: Whether they can measure precisely and trust their own readings against the spec.

How do you set up a grinder for a new job?

What they are checking: Whether they understand setup steps like fixturing, wheel choice and checking the first part.

How do you read a blueprint to find the critical dimensions on a part?

What they are checking: Whether they can read drawings well enough to know which features matter most.

What safety steps do you take around grinding equipment?

What they are checking: Whether they know grinding hazards like wheel breaks, sparks and dust, and protect themselves.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Valmet.

Fabrication & Finishing Operator (1st Shift) Shift: 1st Shift (7am-3:30pm) Pay: $20-$30 per hour (based on experience) Location: Waukesha, WI Looking for a stable manufacturing career with competitive pay, strong benefits, and opportunities to grow your skills? Valmet is seeking an operator to join our Finishing Department on 1st shift . In this role, you'll operate grinding and finishing equipment, inspect quality components, and help produce precision parts that support customers throughout the paper industry. Whether you have experience with grinding equipment, machining, fabrication, CNC equipment, or other manufacturing operations, we encourage you to apply. We are committed to developing skilled professionals and providing opportunities for continued training and advancement. Why Join Valmet? • Competitive pay: $20-$30/hour (based on experience) • 1st Shift schedule • Company-funded pension plan • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits • Paid holidays and time off • Stable, global manufacturing company • Cross-training and career development opportunities • Team-oriented work environment focused on safety and quality What You'll Do: On a typical day, you will set up and operate finishing equipment, inspect parts using precision measuring tools, and work with teammates to ensure products meet customer specifications and quality standards. Primary Responsibilities • Follow all safety policies and procedures while producing high-quality parts • Operate finishing equipment, including Blanchard grinders and other departmental machinery • Set up machines, secure parts, and adjust machine settings to meet dimensional and quality requirements • Monitor machine performance and make adjustments as needed • Perform in-process and final inspections using: • Micrometers • Calipers • Height gauges • Pin gauges • Thread gauges • Feeler gauges • Read and interpret blueprints, work instructions, and job travelers • Identify and report quality concerns while supporting troubleshooting efforts • Complete inspection records and production documentation accurately • Perform basic preventive maintenance and housekeeping tasks • Safely move materials using forklifts and other material handling equipment What We're Looking For: Required Qualifications • Mechanical aptitude and experience operating equipment in a manufacturing or industrial environment • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality • Ability to work independently and as part of a team • Willingness to learn new equipment and cross-train as needed • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds • Ability to push and pull heavy loads using carts, hoists, or lift-assist equipment Preferred Qualifications • Experience operating grinding equipment (Blanchard experience is a plus) • Experience in machining, fabrication, CNC operation, manufacturing, or production environments • Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical specifications • Forklift experience • Experience using precision measuring instruments About Valmet At Valmet, we bring together talented people from diverse backgrounds to deliver industry-leading technologies, services, and solutions to our customers worldwide. We are committed to innovation, sustainability, safety, and teamwork while providing our employees with opportunities to build rewarding long-term careers. Where everything works together. If you're ready to join a company that values craftsmanship, safety, and continuous improvement, we encourage you to apply today. Please note: Any offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, pre-employment physical, and drug screening.

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