Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Koppers Inc.

Location: Kennedy, AL, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Manufacturing & Trades Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-22

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a hands-on, physical production position focused on preparing and framing utility poles to meet stringent quality and customer specifications within a manufacturing environment.

• Responsibilities include operating a variety of industrial tools and equipment, handling materials safely, and performing manual labor tasks to ensure product integrity.

• A strong emphasis is placed on adhering to all safety regulations and requirements, particularly Koppers' "Zero Harm" compliance standards.

• The position requires the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and a willingness to work overtime as needed to meet production demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Framer," the core responsibilities and required skills indicate a role within the manufacturing and processing of utility poles, rather than software or design framing. This is a skilled trade position focused on physical production and quality assurance in the treated wood products industry.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Ensure utility poles meet Koppers' quality standards and customer specifications through accurate framing and preparation.

• Safely operate all assigned equipment, including industrial drills, chainsaws, and portable planers, following established procedures.

• Handle materials with care to prevent damage and breakage, ensuring product integrity throughout the preparation process.

• Accurately brand customer information onto poles as required, maintaining legibility and compliance with specifications.

• Place steel beams between layers of poles during loading for dry kiln processing, ensuring correct placement and stability.

• Perform minor maintenance on tools and equipment to ensure their proper performance and longevity.

• Execute various manual labor tasks as directed, contributing to overall production efficiency and workflow.

• Strictly adhere to all safety regulations and "Zero Harm" compliance requirements to maintain a safe working environment.

• Be prepared to work overtime when production schedules or business needs require it.

• Adapt to potential schedule impacts caused by inclement weather, as work is performed outdoors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of skilled operation of specialized tools and general manual labor, emphasizing precision and safety. The inclusion of "Zero Harm compliance" suggests a robust safety culture and established protocols.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent is preferred. Experience:

• Experience in hands-on physical production environments is advantageous.

• Previous experience operating industrial tools and equipment is a plus. Required Skills:

• Equipment Operation: Proficient in operating various industrial tools and machinery, including drills, chainsaws, and planers.

• Material Handling: Ability to safely and effectively handle materials, including utility poles, to prevent damage and ensure proper placement.

• Safety Compliance: Demonstrated commitment to following all safety regulations and requirements, with an understanding of "Zero Harm" principles.

• Manual Labor: Capacity to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting, positioning, and preparing poles.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous in ensuring poles meet quality standards and customer specifications, including branding accuracy.

• Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues in a production environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with portable planers for shaping pole surfaces.

• Familiarity with branding processes for utility poles.

• Basic understanding of minor equipment maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements are geared towards physical capability and a willingness to learn and follow established safety and production protocols, indicating an entry-level to early-career focus. The preference for a diploma suggests a baseline educational expectation for understanding instructions and safety procedures.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this hands-on role, candidates are encouraged to highlight practical experience demonstrating proficiency in the required skills.

• For example, discuss past projects where you safely operated tools, managed materials, or contributed to production goals.

• Showcase any experience where attention to detail directly led to improved quality or safety outcomes.

• If applicable, provide examples of how you have adhered to or improved upon safety protocols in previous roles. Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to standardized operating procedures (SOPs) for equipment operation and material handling is critical.

• Candidates should be prepared to learn and follow Koppers' specific framing and branding processes.

• Familiarity with workplace safety documentation and reporting procedures is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level, on-site, physical production role like this, a traditional operations portfolio is unlikely. The emphasis will be on practical demonstrations of skills and an understanding of safety and process adherence during interviews and assessments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on regional standards for skilled trades and manufacturing labor in Kennedy, AL, and considering the entry-level experience requirement, an estimated salary range for a Framer position would be approximately $15 - $19 per hour. This estimate accounts for the physical demands, specific tool operation, and on-site nature of the role.

• A more precise range would depend on the specific shift, any union agreements, and the candidate's demonstrated aptitude during the interview process. Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage options.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with company matching contributions.

• Paid Time Off: Accrual of vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays.

• Life Insurance: Company-provided life insurance and options for supplemental coverage.

• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.

• Potential for Overtime Pay: Opportunities to earn additional income through scheduled overtime. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time employment, typically 40 hours per week.

• Specific shift schedules will be communicated during the hiring process.

• Willingness to work overtime as required by production needs.

• Work is performed outdoors, subject to weather conditions which may impact daily schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the specified region. Specific benefits packages can vary and should be confirmed with the employer. The mention of overtime and weather impacts on schedules is crucial for candidates to understand the work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• Koppers Inc. operates in the Treated Wood Products industry, a critical sector that supplies essential materials for infrastructure, utilities, and construction.

• The company focuses on preserving wood to extend its lifespan, playing a role in sustainable resource management and providing durable solutions for various applications.

• The market context for utility poles is driven by infrastructure development, maintenance, and upgrades, requiring reliable and high-quality production. Company Size:

• Koppers Inc. is a large, publicly traded company (NYSE: KOP) with thousands of employees globally.

• This size suggests a structured corporate environment with established policies, procedures, and career pathways.

• For operations professionals, a larger company often means access to more resources, specialized teams, and opportunities for cross-departmental learning. Founded:

• Koppers was founded in 1912, bringing over a century of experience and expertise to the treated wood products market.

• This long history signifies stability, a deep understanding of the industry, and a proven track record of operations and product development. Team Structure:

• The Framer will likely be part of a larger production team within a Koppers manufacturing facility.

• This team is typically supervised by a Production Supervisor or Foreman, who oversees daily operations and personnel.

• Collaboration will be essential with other production roles, such as those involved in treating, finishing, and shipping, as well as with maintenance and safety personnel. Methodology:

• Koppers emphasizes Safety (Zero Harm), Quality, and Efficiency in its operations.

• Production processes are likely standardized and documented to ensure consistency and compliance with industry standards.

• Continuous improvement initiatives may be in place to optimize workflows and enhance productivity. Company Website:

• https://www.koppers.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The industrial context and company size are key. Koppers' focus on treated wood suggests specific operational challenges and requirements related to material handling, chemical treatments (though not detailed for this role), and outdoor production.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This "Framer" position is an entry-level to early-career role within the manufacturing and skilled trades operational field. It requires foundational physical and operational skills.

• It represents a crucial stepping stone for individuals looking to build a career in industrial production, plant operations, or specialized trades. Reporting Structure:

• The Framer will report directly to a Production Supervisor or Foreman.

• This supervisor is responsible for assigning tasks, providing guidance, monitoring performance, and ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards.

• Clear communication channels are expected between the Framer and their direct supervisor. Operations Impact:

• Framers play a direct role in ensuring the quality and integrity of Koppers' utility poles.

• Their meticulous work directly impacts the company's ability to meet customer specifications and maintain its reputation for high-quality treated wood products.

• Efficient and safe framing contributes to overall plant productivity, cost control, and timely delivery of essential infrastructure materials. Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunity to become proficient in operating a wider range of specialized industrial equipment and machinery.

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific framing techniques, equipment maintenance, or quality control within the framing process.

• Promotion: Prospects for advancement to roles such as Lead Framer, Machine Operator, Production Team Lead, or Supervisor, depending on performance, experience, and further training.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other production areas within the facility, broadening operational knowledge.

• Safety Leadership: Opportunities to take on roles related to safety monitoring or training within the production team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is clearly defined within the manufacturing and trade operations of Koppers, emphasizing skill development and potential progression within the plant structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• This is an on-site, hands-on production role, primarily conducted in an outdoor manufacturing yard and potentially near processing areas within a Koppers facility.

• While there may be access to indoor facilities for breaks, training, and administrative tasks, the core work is performed in an industrial, outdoor setting. Office Location(s):

• The specific facility is located in Kennedy, AL.

• Candidates should consider the commute and accessibility to this location. Workspace Context:

• The workspace is an active industrial manufacturing environment.

• Expect exposure to the elements, including heat, cold, rain, and varying levels of noise typical of a production plant.

• Tools and equipment are readily available for use, and material staging areas will be part of the work environment.

• Opportunities for interaction with a production team, supervisors, and potentially maintenance staff. Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time schedule, likely Monday-Friday, with potential for weekend work or extended hours as needed.

• The schedule may be subject to adjustments based on weather conditions and production demands.

• Flexibility and reliability are key, given the nature of outdoor industrial work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description clearly defines an outdoor, industrial, and physically demanding work environment. Candidates must be prepared for these conditions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume to assess basic qualifications, including education and any relevant experience.

• On-Site Interview: Typically conducted by a Production Supervisor or Hiring Manager. This may involve:

  • Discussion of previous work experience, focusing on physical labor, tool use, and safety.
  • Behavioral questions to assess teamwork, problem-solving, and adaptability to weather/schedule changes.
  • A practical assessment or demonstration of basic skills (e.g., safe tool handling, material identification) if applicable.
  • Review of understanding regarding safety protocols ("Zero Harm").

• Facility Tour: Potential for a tour of the work area to understand the environment, tools, and processes.

• Offer: If successful, a formal job offer will be extended, contingent on background checks and potentially a drug screening.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio is not expected. However, candidates can prepare by:

• Resume: Clearly list any experience with physical labor, operating tools (even if basic), or working in outdoor environments. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Managed material flow for X widgets per hour").

• STAR Method: Be ready to discuss specific examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for questions related to safety, teamwork, or handling challenging conditions.

• Showcase Safety Consciousness: Prepare to articulate your understanding of safety importance and any personal safety practices you follow.

Challenge Preparation:

• While formal "challenges" are unlikely, be prepared for practical demonstrations or scenarios:

• Tool Familiarity: Be ready to discuss your comfort level with tools like drills, chainsaws, or planers.

• Physicality: Understand that the role requires significant physical exertion. Be prepared to discuss your ability to meet the lifting and endurance requirements.

• Problem-Solving: Think about how you would approach a minor issue, like a tool malfunction or a material handling challenge, prioritizing safety and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be practical and focused on assessing physical capability, safety awareness, and the ability to follow instructions in an industrial setting, rather than theoretical knowledge or extensive documentation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Industrial Drills: Used for creating holes in utility poles.

• Chainsaws: For cutting and shaping wood poles.

• Portable Planers: Used to create flat surfaces on poles.

• Hand Tools: Various hand tools for positioning, preparing, and securing materials (e.g., hammers, wrenches, measuring tapes).

• Branding Tools: Equipment used to imprint customer information onto poles.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly operating complex analytics software, Framers will be expected to understand and follow production logs, quality check sheets, and safety incident reports.

• Data entry might be minimal, perhaps related to production counts or material usage. CRM & Automation:

• This role does not typically involve CRM or automation software. The focus is on manual processes and direct physical interaction with materials and equipment.

• Any system interaction would likely be through basic shop floor data collection terminals or timekeeping systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily oriented towards manual tools and basic industrial machinery, reflecting the hands-on nature of the job.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First (Zero Harm): This is paramount. Koppers prioritizes the well-being of its employees above all else. Employees are expected to be vigilant, follow protocols, and actively contribute to a safe environment.

• Quality: A commitment to producing high-quality treated wood products that meet or exceed customer expectations and industry standards.

• Efficiency: Striving for optimal productivity and resource utilization within the production process.

• Teamwork: Recognizing that production goals are achieved through collaboration and mutual support among team members.

• Reliability: Dependability in attendance, punctuality, and task completion, especially given the impact on production schedules.

Collaboration Style:

• Direct & Hands-On: Collaboration will involve direct communication and physical assistance between team members on the production floor.

• Process-Oriented: Working together to execute standardized processes efficiently and safely.

• Feedback Loop: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback, particularly regarding safety and process improvements.

• Cross-Functional: Interaction with supervisors, maintenance personnel, and potentially quality control inspectors to ensure smooth operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values are strongly aligned with industrial safety and production best practices. The collaborative style is practical and focused on achieving tangible operational outcomes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Physical Demands: The role requires significant physical stamina, strength, and the ability to perform repetitive tasks in various conditions. Managing fatigue and preventing injury is key.

• Weather Dependency: Outdoor work means adapting to and working effectively in extreme heat, cold, rain, and other elements, which can impact comfort and productivity.

• Safety Risks: Working with heavy materials and industrial machinery inherently carries risks. Maintaining constant vigilance and adherence to safety protocols is critical.

• Consistency: Ensuring uniform quality and adherence to specifications across all poles processed, despite varying conditions or material differences.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Mastery: Developing expert-level proficiency in operating framing tools and equipment.

• Process Expertise: Gaining a deep understanding of the entire utility pole production lifecycle at Koppers.

• Safety Training: Opportunities for advanced safety training, potentially leading to roles in safety committees or as a safety advocate.

• Career Progression: As mentioned, pathways to leadership roles within the production department.

• Cross-Training: Learning different aspects of the plant's operations to become a more versatile employee.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are directly related to the physical and environmental demands of the role. Growth opportunities are focused on deepening practical skills and moving into more senior or supervisory roles within the plant.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you had to work in difficult weather conditions. How did you manage?" (Focus on your adaptability, resilience, and commitment to completing tasks safely.)

• "Describe your experience with physical labor or operating tools. What are you most comfortable with?" (Highlight any relevant past experiences, even if not industrial. Emphasize your willingness to learn.)

• "How do you ensure safety when working with tools or heavy materials?" (Discuss your understanding of safety protocols, attention to detail, and proactive approach to risk.)

• "What does 'Zero Harm' mean to you in a workplace context?" (Show that you understand the company's commitment to safety and your role in achieving it.)

• "How do you handle repetitive tasks?" (Focus on your ability to maintain focus, quality, and attention to detail even during monotonous work.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Koppers?" (Research Koppers' products, market position, and commitment to sustainability or safety. Align your interest with their mission.)

• "What do you know about our products?" (Briefly mention utility poles and their importance in infrastructure.)

• "How do you approach working as part of a team?" (Emphasize your collaborative nature, willingness to help others, and communication skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, focus on your resume and being prepared to discuss your experience verbally.

• Resume Walkthrough: Be ready to walk the interviewer through your resume, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.

• Behavioral Examples: Have 2-3 concrete examples ready using the STAR method to illustrate your capabilities in safety, teamwork, problem-solving, or handling difficult conditions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating physical capability, a strong safety mindset, reliability, and a willingness to learn and work in a challenging environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Koppers careers portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience with physical labor, tool operation (even basic ones), working outdoors, or in manufacturing/production settings. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare for Practicality: Be ready to discuss your physical capabilities and comfort level with manual tasks and the described work environment.

• Safety Focus: Clearly articulate your understanding of and commitment to workplace safety and the "Zero Harm" principle