Framer 2

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer 2

Company: Stella-Jones

Location: Arlington, Washington, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Manufacturing & Production Operations

Date Posted: August 12, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-level to 2 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is integral to the production operations, focusing on the manufacturing of essential infrastructure products.

• Key responsibilities involve hands-on operation of tools and equipment to process round stock according to precise specifications.

• A strong emphasis is placed on quality control, safety compliance, and accurate documentation within the production workflow.

• The position offers a structured training program, with initial classification as a Framer 3 during a 90-day probationary period to ensure proficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "Framer 2" and the description focus on manual production tasks, the emphasis on "essential infrastructure products," "utilities and railroads," and "big box home improvement stores" positions this role within a critical supply chain segment. For operations professionals, this means working in a stable industry with tangible product output, requiring adherence to strict quality and safety standards. The training period highlights an investment in employee development, making it suitable for individuals looking to build a career in industrial manufacturing operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Inspect and verify the quality and classification of all round stock materials against ANSI, ASTM, or Corporate standards.

• Operate hand and framing tools to accurately cut, drill, gain, brand, and tag poles, preparing them for treatment.

• Meticulously document and report all processed materials to maintain accurate inventory records.

• Maintain and ensure the readiness of all tools, equipment, supplies, and the general work area for efficient and safe operations.

• Provide assistance in the inspection of all round stock products, contributing to overall quality assurance.

• Support the receipt of materials by tallying, identifying, and recording incoming inventory information.

• Assist in the operation of specific machinery, such as full-length and deep incisors, as required by production demands.

• Operate the pole tag machine to manufacture aluminum tags needed for product identification.

• Actively participate and contribute to the company's comprehensive safety program and initiatives.

• Perform other assigned duties to support the smooth functioning of the production department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a hands-on production role. For candidates with operations backgrounds, framing these tasks in terms of process efficiency, quality assurance, and data integrity (documentation) will be beneficial. The requirement to assist in material receipt and inspection points to an understanding of supply chain and inventory management principles, even at an entry-level.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent preferred; specific vocational training in manufacturing or trades is a plus.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a manufacturing, production, or industrial environment. Experience with hand tools and power tools is beneficial.

Required Skills:

• Proficient operation of hand and framing tools for cutting, drilling, and preparing materials.

• Ability to perform detailed quality inspections against established industry standards (ANSI, ASTM).

• Strong understanding and adherence to safety protocols and participation in safety programs.

• Accurate and consistent documentation of processed materials and inventory data.

• Basic equipment and tool maintenance skills to ensure operational readiness.

• Ability to work effectively as part of a production team, collaborating with colleagues.

• Physical stamina and ability to perform manual labor, including lifting and standing for extended periods. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with industrial machinery like incisors or pole tag machines.

• Experience in material handling and inventory tallying within a warehouse or production setting.

• Basic understanding of production workflow and process optimization principles.

• Prior exposure to an industrial manufacturing environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level is explicitly stated as entry-level to 2 years, making this role accessible to individuals new to manufacturing operations. The "Required Skills" emphasize practical, hands-on abilities crucial for production roles. Preferred skills hint at a desire for candidates who can quickly adapt to more complex machinery and understand broader production concepts, aligning with operations career growth.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any projects or experiences demonstrating process adherence, quality focus, or efficiency improvements.

• Examples could include personal projects involving precise construction or fabrication, or academic work that required meticulous documentation.

• Showcase an understanding of following detailed instructions and specifications. Process Documentation:

• Ability to accurately follow and execute documented work instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

• Commitment to meticulous record-keeping for materials processed, including quantities, types, and any quality notes.

• Understanding the importance of clear and concise documentation for traceability and reporting within the production cycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level production role, a formal portfolio is less critical. However, candidates can demonstrate their operational mindset by preparing to discuss how they approach following instructions, ensuring accuracy, and maintaining records. Highlighting any experience where precision and documentation were key will be beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $24.51 per hour. This is based on the AI-derived average hourly rate for this position in Arlington, WA, considering entry-level experience and the nature of the role within the manufacturing industry. Actual compensation may vary based on specific experience and internal Stella-Jones pay scales.

Benefits:

• The security of working for a company designated as an essential workplace, ensuring job stability.

• Comprehensive total benefits package, including a choice of 3 medical plans.

• Company-paid benefits: Dental and Vision coverage.

• Company-paid insurance: Life insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) policies, and Long-Term Disability Coverage.

• Access to a robust employee assistance program for personal and professional support.

• Competitive compensation structure with an annual bonus program opportunity.

• 401(k) savings plan with a generous Company match (150% on the first 4% deferred), aiding retirement planning.

• Paid time off: 2 weeks of vacation and 9 holidays per year.

• Opportunities for career advancement within the company.

• Ability to purchase Company stock, offering an ownership stake and potential for growth.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided hourly rate of $24.51 is a strong indicator for an entry-level manufacturing role in the current market, especially in the Seattle metropolitan area. The comprehensive benefits package, including a significant 401(k) match and stock purchase option, adds substantial value beyond the base wage, aligning with typical offerings for full-time industrial positions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing of essential infrastructure products (wood treatment for utilities and railroads, lumber for home improvement).

Company Size: Over 3,000 employees across North America.

Founded: Stella-Jones has a long-standing history, though the exact founding date isn't specified, its public trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange and vast operational network indicate a mature and established organization.

Team Structure:

• The Framer 2 role is part of a larger production or manufacturing team within a specific facility.

• Likely operates within a hierarchical structure, reporting to a Production Supervisor or Foreman.

• Collaboration is expected with fellow framers, inspectors, machine operators, and potentially warehouse or logistics personnel. Methodology:

• Focus on standardized production processes to ensure product consistency and quality.

• Emphasis on safety procedures as a core component of daily operations.

• Data-driven approach to inventory management and production tracking.

• Continuous improvement initiatives are likely, especially concerning efficiency and safety.

Company Website: https://www.stella-jones.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Stella-Jones's position as a manufacturer of "essential infrastructure products" suggests a stable, foundational business. This stability is a key consideration for operations professionals seeking reliable employment. The company's size and public trading indicate a structured environment with established processes and a focus on performance metrics, relevant to anyone in operations looking to contribute to a large-scale supply chain.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at the entry-level within production operations. It serves as a foundational position for individuals looking to gain practical experience in manufacturing processes and industrial environments.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Production Supervisor or Lead Hand, who oversees daily operations and team performance.

Operations Impact: Directly impacts the efficiency and quality of the primary manufacturing process for round stock products. Accurate framing and preparation are critical for subsequent treatment and final product integrity, influencing customer satisfaction and operational costs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become proficient in various framing tools, machinery operation, and quality inspection techniques.

• Career Advancement: Potential to progress to Framer 1, Senior Framer, or roles such as Machine Operator, Quality Inspector, or Production Lead within the facility.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Possibility to gain exposure to other areas of plant operations, such as inventory management, logistics, or maintenance, depending on company structure and individual initiative.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, this role is a stepping stone. Highlighting a desire to learn and grow within the manufacturing operations field, and demonstrating a strong work ethic and attention to detail, will be key for career progression. The mention of "career advancement opportunities" in the benefits section reinforces this.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position located within a manufacturing plant or production facility.

Office Location(s): Arlington, Washington. The facility is part of Stella-Jones's extensive network across North America.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is a production floor, which can be noisy, dusty, and exposed to varying temperatures depending on the season and specific work area.

• Operations involve working with machinery and materials, requiring adherence to strict safety guidelines.

• Access to necessary tools, equipment, and safety gear will be provided.

• Opportunities for teamwork and collaboration with colleagues on the production line.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week. Specific shift details (e.g., day, swing, graveyard) would need to be confirmed with the hiring manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared for a physically demanding industrial environment. Understanding the nature of a manufacturing plant floor is crucial. The "essential workplace" designation suggests consistent operations, providing a stable work schedule.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of the application and resume to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• On-site Interview: May involve meeting with a hiring manager or production supervisor to discuss experience, work ethic, and understanding of the role's responsibilities.

• Skills Assessment/Practical Test: Potentially a brief demonstration of basic tool handling or an assessment of understanding safety procedures.

• Facility Tour: A tour of the production floor to provide a realistic view of the work environment.

• Background Check & Onboarding: Standard pre-employment checks if an offer is extended.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't expected, be prepared to discuss specific examples from previous work or personal projects that demonstrate:

  • Your ability to follow detailed instructions precisely.
  • Your commitment to quality and attention to detail.
  • How you've contributed to a safe working environment.
  • Any instances where you improved a process or solved a minor issue.

• If you have any certifications related to safety or trades, be ready to present them. Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer questions about your understanding of safety protocols in an industrial setting.

• Prepare to discuss your experience with tools and machinery, even if basic.

• Think about how you would approach learning new processes and adhering to quality standards.

• Consider examples of teamwork and how you contribute to a group effort.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, interview preparation should focus on demonstrating reliability, a willingness to learn, and a strong commitment to safety and quality. While technical operations skills are important, soft skills like a good attitude, punctuality, and teamwork are equally critical for entry-level production roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hand Tools: Various hand tools for cutting, shaping, and preparing wood (e.g., saws, chisels, mallets).

• Framing Tools: Specialized tools for framing poles, including drills, gains, and branding irons.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, calipers, and other instruments for verifying dimensions against specifications.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, safety boots, and other required safety gear.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Documentation Software/Tools: Basic systems for recording processed material data (could be spreadsheets, logbooks, or simple digital forms).

• Inventory Management Systems: Potentially exposure to basic inventory tracking tools used within the facility.

CRM & Automation:

• N/A: This role is primarily hands-on production and does not typically involve CRM or advanced automation software. The focus is on manual execution and adherence to established processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is heavily geared towards manual tools and basic documentation. For operations professionals transitioning from more analytical roles, understanding this shift to hands-on execution and direct process involvement is important. Familiarity with basic data entry or logging systems is a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value, with strict adherence to all safety regulations and procedures expected from every team member.

• Quality Focus: Commitment to producing products that meet or exceed established standards, ensuring customer satisfaction and product integrity.

• Productivity & Efficiency: Striving to complete tasks in a timely and efficient manner to meet production targets.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to ensure smooth workflow and mutual support within the production team.

• Reliability & Accountability: Being dependable, punctual, and taking ownership of tasks and responsibilities.

Collaboration Style:

• Direct and task-oriented, with clear communication channels for operational needs and safety concerns.

• Emphasis on mutual support and assistance among team members to achieve production goals.

• Regular feedback and guidance from supervisors to ensure processes are followed correctly and safely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values are typical for industrial manufacturing, prioritizing safety and output. For operations professionals, demonstrating an understanding of how these values translate into daily actions—like meticulous tool checks, clear communication of issues, and consistent adherence to procedures—will resonate well.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Physical Demands: The role requires significant physical exertion, including standing for long periods, lifting, and repetitive motions, which can be challenging for some.

• Repetitive Tasks: The nature of production can involve repetitive tasks, requiring sustained focus and motivation.

• Learning Curve: Mastering the operation of various tools and adhering to precise specifications may take time and practice.

• Safety Vigilance: Maintaining constant awareness of safety protocols in a potentially hazardous environment is critical and requires continuous effort.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Developing expertise in wood treatment preparation techniques and specific tool operation.

• Process Knowledge: Gaining a deep understanding of the end-to-end production process for round stock products.

• Safety Certifications: Potential to earn certifications related to industrial safety or equipment operation.

• Internal Mobility: Opportunities to explore other roles within the plant as experience and skills grow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for resilience and a strong work ethic. The growth opportunities point towards a structured path for developing practical skills and potentially advancing within the manufacturing operations field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you had to follow a detailed set of instructions. How did you ensure you met all requirements?" (Assesses attention to detail and process adherence.)

• "How do you prioritize tasks when working on a production line with multiple demands?" (Evaluates time management and workflow understanding.)

• "Describe your understanding of workplace safety. What steps do you take to ensure your own safety and that of your colleagues?" (Gauges safety consciousness and responsibility.)

• "What motivates you to perform well in a hands-on role like this?" (Uncovers work ethic and drivers.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Stella-Jones and the products we manufacture?" (Tests research and interest.)

• "How do you contribute to a team environment?" (Assesses collaboration skills.)

• "Why are you interested in a production role versus an office-based position?" (Clarifies career aspirations.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If asked about experience, focus on concrete examples of:

  • Following procedures accurately.
  • Maintaining equipment or tools.
  • Working safely in a previous role.
  • Contributing to team goals.

• Be prepared to discuss your understanding of quality checks and why they are important.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should center on demonstrating a proactive attitude towards learning, a strong commitment to safety, and the ability to work diligently in a hands-on environment. Highlighting any prior experience, however basic, that involved tools, precision, or following instructions will be beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Stella-Jones careers portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience with tools, manufacturing, physical labor, or following detailed procedures. Quantify achievements where possible, even if in non-industrial settings (e.g., "maintained inventory accuracy for X items").

• Prepare for On-site: Be ready for a potential on-site interview where you might be asked to demonstrate basic tool handling or discuss safety protocols. Wear appropriate attire for a professional interview, but be mindful that you might be touring a manufacturing facility.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Stella-Jones's core business (infrastructure products, wood treatment) and their commitment to safety and quality. Understand their position as an essential workplace.

• Highlight Key Skills: Be prepared to speak directly to your ability to operate hand tools, perform quality inspections, document work, and adhere to safety regulations.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.