Framer 3
๐ Job Overview
Job Title: Framer 3
Company: Stella-Jones
Location: Lufkin, Texas, United States
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Manufacturing Operations / Skilled Trades
Date Posted: September 01, 2026
Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site
๐ Role Summary
-
This role is foundational within the manufacturing operations of Stella-Jones, focusing on the precise preparation of round stock products for treatment.
-
It requires hands-on proficiency with framing tools and a strong commitment to quality control, adhering to industry standards like ANSI and ASTM.
-
The position plays a critical part in the supply chain for essential infrastructure products, directly impacting the company's ability to serve utility and railroad clients.
-
Successful candidates will contribute to a safe and efficient production environment, demonstrating attention to detail in material handling and documentation.
๐ Enhancement Note: The job title "Framer 3" and the description of training under "Framer 2" indicate an entry-level position within a structured trade progression. The primary focus is on the physical preparation of wood products, aligning it with skilled trades within a manufacturing context rather than traditional Revenue or Sales Operations.
๐ Primary Responsibilities
-
Inspect and verify the quality and classification of all round stock products against ANSI, ASTM, or Corporate standards.
-
Operate hand and framing tools to accurately cut, drill, gain, brand, tag, clean, and prepare poles for the treatment process.
-
Document and report all processed materials, ensuring accurate record-keeping for inventory and production tracking.
-
Maintain tools, equipment, supplies, and the overall work area to ensure a safe, organized, and efficient production environment.
-
Assist in the inspection of all round stock products, contributing to overall quality assurance.
-
Support the receipt of materials by tallying, identifying, and recording incoming stock and associated information.
-
Operate full-length and deep incisor machinery as required, following strict safety protocols.
-
Operate the pole tag machine for the manufacturing of aluminum tags as needed.
-
Actively participate and contribute to the company's comprehensive safety program.
-
Perform other assigned duties that support the manufacturing and operational goals of the facility.
๐ Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are highly task-oriented and directly involve the physical manipulation and preparation of raw materials. This suggests a role focused on operational execution rather than strategic planning or analysis, typical of entry-level manufacturing or trade positions.
๐ Skills & Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or GED required.
Experience: Minimum of 3 months of experience in framing wood products or carpentry is necessary.
Required Skills:
-
Expert knowledge of power tools for precise operation and safety.
-
Proficiency in operating hand and framing tools for cutting, drilling, and preparing wood.
-
Ability to inspect and verify the quality and classification of wood products.
-
Skill in material handling, including tallying, identification, and documentation.
-
Strong commitment to safety compliance and participation in safety programs.
-
Basic understanding of maintenance for tools, equipment, and work areas. Preferred Skills:
-
Knowledge of ANSI standards for wood products.
-
Familiarity with ASTM standards relevant to the industry.
-
Understanding of wood grading, defect identification, and species characteristics.
-
Experience with specific machinery such as full-length incisors or pole tag machines.
๐ Enhancement Note: The "expert knowledge of power tools" requirement, coupled with the preference for specific industry standards (ANSI, ASTM), points to a need for practical, hands-on expertise rather than theoretical knowledge. The 3-month experience minimum, alongside the "Framer 3" title, confirms this is an entry-level role within a skilled trade pipeline.
๐ Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
-
While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates should be prepared to discuss their practical experience.
-
Examples of past projects involving wood framing or carpentry, even from personal or educational contexts, can be valuable.
-
Demonstrating an understanding of quality standards and safety procedures through anecdotal evidence is key.
-
Ability to explain how tools were used and the outcomes achieved in previous practical tasks. Process Documentation:
-
Candidates are expected to follow established documentation procedures for materials processed.
-
Understanding the importance of accurate reporting for production and inventory management is crucial.
-
Willingness to learn and adhere to specific company workflows for material preparation and handling.
๐ Enhancement Note: For an entry-level manufacturing role, a traditional "process and systems portfolio" as seen in operations analyst roles is unlikely. The emphasis will be on practical skills and the ability to learn and follow established procedures, as evidenced through discussion and potentially a practical skills assessment.
๐ต Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Based on industry standards for entry-level skilled trades in Lufkin, Texas, and considering the 3-month experience requirement, a competitive hourly wage is expected. Stella-Jones offers competitive compensation, and for this role, an estimated range of $17.00 - $20.00 per hour is anticipated. This reflects the hands-on nature of the work, the required tool proficiency, and the potential for growth within the company.
Benefits:
-
The security of working for a company designated as an essential workplace.
-
Comprehensive total benefits package with 3 medical plans to choose from.
-
Company-paid benefits:
- Dental and Vision coverage.
- Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) policies.
- Long-Term Disability Coverage.
- Access to a robust employee assistance program.
-
Competitive compensation.
-
Annual bonus program opportunity.
-
401(k) savings plan with a generous Company match (150% on the first 4% deferred).
-
2 weeks paid vacation and 9 paid holidays annually.
-
Career advancement opportunities within Stella-Jones.
-
Ability to purchase Company stock.
Working Hours: This is a full-time position, typically involving a standard 40-hour work week. Specific shift details will be provided during the interview process, but flexibility may be required based on production demands.
๐ Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on general labor market data for skilled trades in East Texas, considering the provided experience level and the nature of the work. The benefits package is comprehensive and reflects a stable, established employer.
๐ฏ Team & Company Context
๐ข Company Culture
Industry: Stella-Jones operates in the essential infrastructure products manufacturing sector, serving utilities and railroads, and supplying big box home improvement stores. This industry is characterized by its critical role in maintaining public services and infrastructure, often leading to a stable and resilient business model.
Company Size: Stella-Jones employs over 3,000 people across North America, indicating a large, established organization with significant operational scale. This size suggests structured processes, opportunities for advancement, and a diverse workforce.
Founded: Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, Stella-Jones is publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange. Its long-standing presence implies a history of operational expertise and market leadership.
Team Structure:
-
The operations team within a facility like Lufkin is likely structured around production lines and specific roles, such as framing, treatment, and finishing.
-
Reporting structures will typically involve a Production Supervisor, who oversees multiple specialized roles and ensures adherence to production schedules and quality standards.
-
Cross-functional collaboration is essential, particularly with quality control, maintenance, and logistics teams, to ensure seamless operations from raw material receipt to finished product dispatch. Methodology:
-
Stella-Jones emphasizes adherence to established industry standards (ANSI, ASTM) for product quality and safety.
-
The company's focus on essential infrastructure suggests a methodology centered on reliability, efficiency, and continuous improvement in manufacturing processes.
-
A strong emphasis on safety programs is a hallmark of responsible manufacturing operations, ensuring the well-being of employees and the integrity of operations.
Company Website: https://www.stella-jones.com/
๐ Enhancement Note: The company's description highlights its role as a provider of essential infrastructure products, suggesting a culture of reliability, safety, and long-term stability. The large employee base indicates a structured environment with potential for career growth.
๐ Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This "Framer 3" position represents an entry-level role within Stella-Jones' manufacturing and skilled trades division. It serves as a foundational step, providing practical experience in wood product preparation and an introduction to industrial manufacturing processes. The progression from Framer 3 to Framer 2 and potentially higher skilled roles is a clear career ladder within the plant.
Reporting Structure: The role reports to a Production Supervisor or a designated team lead within the framing or preparation department. This direct reporting line ensures clear communication of tasks, performance feedback, and adherence to operational directives.
Operations Impact: While not a strategic revenue-generating role, the Framer 3's work is critical to the overall operational efficiency and product quality. Accurate and timely preparation of round stock directly impacts the downstream treatment process and the final quality of poles supplied to utilities and railroads, which are essential for maintaining infrastructure.
Growth Opportunities:
-
Skill Development: Opportunity to master advanced framing techniques, learn to operate more complex machinery, and gain deeper knowledge of wood grading and treatment processes.
-
Career Progression: Potential to advance to Framer 2, then to more specialized roles like Treatment Operator, or to take on supervisory responsibilities as a Team Lead or Production Supervisor.
-
Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other areas of the plant, broadening operational knowledge and increasing versatility.
๐ Enhancement Note: The career path within a manufacturing plant like Stella-Jones typically involves mastering specific operational skills, demonstrating reliability, and showing aptitude for more complex tasks or leadership. This role is a clear entry point into such a progression.
๐ Work Environment
Office Type: This is an on-site role within a manufacturing facility. The work environment will be production-floor based, involving exposure to industrial machinery, wood materials, and associated operational processes.
Office Location(s): The position is located at the Stella-Jones facility in Lufkin, Texas.
Workspace Context:
-
The workspace will be dynamic and physically demanding, requiring movement, standing for extended periods, and operating heavy machinery.
-
Access to and proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory and integral to the workspace.
-
Opportunities for direct interaction with team members and supervisors will be frequent, fostering a collaborative and safety-conscious team environment.
-
The presence of industrial equipment means a focus on operational efficiency, safety protocols, and adherence to production schedules.
Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is full-time, approximately 40 hours per week. Depending on production needs, overtime may be required. Shift schedules will be communicated by the hiring team.
๐ Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes a hands-on, industrial setting. Candidates should expect a physically demanding environment where safety and adherence to operational procedures are paramount.
๐ Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
-
Initial Screening: A review of your application and resume to assess basic qualifications (education, experience).
-
Skills Assessment/Practical Test: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate proficiency with hand tools or basic framing tasks. This is a crucial step for assessing practical skills relevant to the role.
-
Behavioral Interview: Questions will focus on your experience with tools, safety awareness, teamwork, and problem-solving in a practical setting. Prepare to discuss how you've handled challenges in previous roles or projects.
-
Facility Tour & Team Introduction: An opportunity to see the work environment and meet potential team members.
-
Final Interview: May involve discussion with a Production Supervisor or Plant Manager to confirm fit and discuss compensation and benefits.
Portfolio Review Tips:
-
For this role, a formal "portfolio" isn't expected. Instead, be ready to discuss your 3+ months of framing/carpentry experience in detail.
-
Prepare specific examples of how you used power tools, your understanding of safety protocols, and any experience you have with quality inspection or material handling.
-
If you have any personal projects or vocational training involving wood construction, be prepared to describe them and highlight the skills you developed. Challenge Preparation:
-
Be ready to answer questions about tool safety and proper usage.
-
Think about situations where you had to follow detailed instructions or work under pressure to meet a deadline.
-
Understand the importance of quality control and how to identify potential defects in materials.
๐ Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely be very practical, focusing on hands-on skills and safety awareness rather than strategic thinking or data analysis. Demonstrating a strong work ethic and willingness to learn are key.
๐ Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
-
Hand Tools: Hammers, saws (hand and powered), drills, measuring tapes, levels, chisels, planes, etc.
-
Power Tools: Expert knowledge is required for drills, saws (circular, miter, reciprocating), nail guns, routers, and other woodworking equipment.
-
Framing Tools: Specific tools used for preparing and framing wood poles.
-
Branding and Tagging Equipment: Machines for branding poles and manufacturing aluminum tags.
-
Measuring and Inspection Tools: Calipers, gauges, and other tools for verifying dimensions and quality against standards.
Analytics & Reporting:
-
Documentation Systems: Basic record-keeping for materials processed, potentially using simple forms or digital logs.
-
Inventory Management Systems: Awareness of how accurate material documentation contributes to overall inventory accuracy.
CRM & Automation:
- Not directly applicable to this role, as it is a hands-on manufacturing position. The focus is on physical tools and processes rather than software platforms.
๐ Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is primarily comprised of industrial machinery and hand/power tools, rather than software. Proficiency with these physical tools is the core requirement.
๐ฅ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
-
Safety First: A paramount value where adherence to safety protocols is non-negotiable, protecting individuals and ensuring operational continuity.
-
Quality Commitment: Dedication to meeting and exceeding industry standards (ANSI, ASTM) for product quality and classification.
-
Efficiency & Productivity: Striving to complete tasks accurately and in a timely manner to meet production targets.
-
Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues and supervisors to achieve shared operational goals.
-
Reliability & Accountability: Being dependable, taking ownership of tasks, and contributing positively to the team's success.
Collaboration Style:
-
Direct and clear communication is essential for task assignment, safety instructions, and quality checks.
-
Team members are expected to support each other, especially during peak production periods or when complex tasks arise.
-
A culture of continuous improvement may encourage feedback on processes to enhance safety and efficiency.
๐ Enhancement Note: The culture will be typical of a manufacturing environment, emphasizing safety, efficiency, and teamwork. Employees are expected to be reliable and follow established procedures.
โก Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
-
Physical Demands: The role requires sustained physical exertion, including standing, lifting, and operating heavy machinery, which can be challenging for individuals not accustomed to such work.
-
Learning Curve: Mastering the operation of various power tools and adhering to precise quality standards for different wood types and specifications can require a learning period.
-
Safety Adherence: Consistently following all safety procedures in a dynamic industrial environment is critical and requires constant vigilance.
-
Production Pace: Meeting production targets and deadlines in a fast-paced manufacturing setting.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
-
On-the-Job Training: Comprehensive training on tool operation, safety procedures, and quality standards.
-
Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become an expert in specific framing techniques or machinery.
-
Career Advancement: Clear pathways for promotion to higher-skilled positions within the plant, such as Framer 2, Treatment Operator, or supervisory roles.
-
Industry Knowledge: Gaining a deep understanding of wood products, their applications in infrastructure, and relevant industry standards.
๐ Enhancement Note: The primary challenges are physical and skill-based, while growth opportunities are rooted in mastering the trade and advancing within the company's operational hierarchy.
๐ก Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
-
"Describe your experience using power tools. Which ones are you most proficient with, and what safety precautions do you always take?" (Focus on specific tools and safety protocols.)
-
"Tell me about a time you had to follow precise instructions or specifications to complete a task. How did you ensure accuracy?" (Highlight attention to detail and process adherence.)
-
"How do you approach maintaining your tools and work area to ensure safety and efficiency?" (Demonstrate responsibility and organizational skills.)
-
"What does quality mean to you in a manufacturing context, and how would you ensure the products you prepare meet those standards?" (Show understanding of quality control and industry standards.) Company & Culture Questions:
-
"Why are you interested in working for Stella-Jones, and what do you know about our products or industry?" (Research the company's role in infrastructure.)
-
"How do you handle working in a physically demanding environment and on a team?" (Emphasize teamwork and resilience.)
-
"What is your understanding of safety protocols in an industrial setting?" (Show awareness of safety importance.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
-
Since a formal portfolio isn't expected, prepare to verbally walk through your past experiences.
-
For each relevant experience (even if short), describe:
-
The task or project.
-
The tools you used.
-
The specific actions you took.
-
The outcome or result.
-
Any safety considerations or quality checks you performed.
-
๐ Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on practical skills, safety awareness, and the ability to articulate experience clearly, especially regarding tool usage and quality standards.
๐ Application Steps
To apply for this Framer 3 position:
-
Submit your application through the provided link on dayforcehcm.com.
-
Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights any experience with power tools, carpentry, or wood product framing, even if it's from vocational training or personal projects. Quantify experience where possible (e.g., "3 months of hands-on framing experience").
-
Prepare for Practical Assessment: Be ready to demonstrate your comfort and proficiency with common hand and power tools during the interview process.
-
Research Stella-Jones: Understand the company's role as a manufacturer of essential infrastructure products and its commitment to safety and quality.
-
Articulate Safety Focus: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of industrial safety protocols and your commitment to a safe work environment.
โ ๏ธ 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.
Application Requirements
Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and at least three months of experience in framing wood products or carpentry. Expert knowledge of power tools is required, and familiarity with ANSI standards is preferred.