Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Koppers Inc.

Location: Vidalia, GA, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Manufacturing & Trades

Date Posted: June 26, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is integral to the production process, ensuring that utility poles meet stringent Koppers quality standards and specific customer requirements.

• Requires hands-on operation of various tools and equipment in a production environment, with a strong emphasis on safety and precision.

• Involves performing essential manual labor tasks to prepare and brand utility poles, contributing directly to the final product quality.

• Candidates must be adaptable to working outdoors in varying weather conditions and committed to upholding Zero Harm safety compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Framer," the responsibilities described align more closely with a production or manufacturing associate role within a utility pole treatment facility, focusing on the physical preparation and finishing of poles. The term "Framer" may be specific to Koppers' internal terminology for this function.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Operate all designated equipment, including industrial drills and chainsaws, in a safe and appropriate manner according to operational procedures.

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

• Utilize various hand tools and specialized equipment, such as portable planers, to accurately shape and prepare poles as per specifications.

• Apply customer identification and information by branding the poles, ensuring clear and permanent marking.

• Perform routine minor maintenance on tools and equipment to guarantee optimal performance and operational readiness.

• Assist in the loading process by placing steel beams between layers of poles destined for the dry kiln, ensuring efficient kiln packing.

• Execute a range of manual labor tasks associated with pole preparation and facility upkeep.

• Adhere strictly to all safety regulations and requirements to maintain Koppers' Zero Harm compliance initiative.

• Willingness to work overtime as needed to meet production demands and project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of skilled tool operation and general labor, common in manufacturing environments. The emphasis on "Zero Harm" indicates a strong safety culture at Koppers, which candidates should be prepared to demonstrate adherence to.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent is preferred. Experience:

• Willingness to engage in hands-on physical production work is essential.

• Previous experience in a manufacturing, production, or trade environment is beneficial but not strictly required. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in operating various hand tools for precise work.

• Ability to safely operate industrial equipment, including drills and chainsaws.

• Experience or aptitude for using specialized tools like portable planers.

• Strong commitment to safety compliance and adherence to Zero Harm principles.

• Capacity for performing demanding manual labor and lifting up to 50 lbs.

• Attention to detail to ensure poles meet quality standards and customer specifications. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the wood treatment or utility pole manufacturing industry.

• Basic mechanical aptitude for performing minor equipment maintenance.

• Familiarity with quality control processes in a production setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements focus on physical capability and a willingness to learn and perform manual tasks. While formal experience is not mandatory, a background in trades or production environments would be advantageous for adapting quickly to the role's demands and safety protocols.

📊 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 relevant practical experience or projects that demonstrate their ability to follow instructions, work with tools, and ensure quality.

• Examples of safely operating machinery or completing physical tasks in previous roles can serve as informal portfolio evidence.

• Any documentation or evidence of commitment to safety protocols or quality standards in past work is valuable. Process Documentation:

• Candidates will be trained on Koppers' specific processes for pole framing, branding, and preparation.

• The ability to follow documented procedures and safety guidelines is critical for success in this role.

• On-the-job training will cover the specific workflows for preparing poles for treatment and shipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level production role like this, a traditional portfolio is less common. Instead, candidates should focus on articulating their practical skills and understanding of safety and quality during the interview process. Highlighting instances where they followed complex instructions or worked meticulously on physical tasks will be most effective.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the location (Vidalia, GA), entry-level manufacturing/trade roles typically range from $15 to $20 per hour. This estimate is based on regional labor market data for similar positions and Koppers' likely compensation structure for production associates.

• The final compensation will depend on the candidate's specific skills, any relevant experience, and the company's internal pay scales. Benefits:

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

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

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

• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.

• Training and Development: Opportunities for on-the-job training and skill enhancement.

• Safety Incentives: Potential for programs recognizing safe work practices.

Working Hours:

• This is a Full-Time position. Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, often involving an 8-hour shift.

• Flexibility is required, as overtime may be necessary to meet production demands.

• Work schedules may be impacted by inclement weather, requiring adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Compensation and benefits details are based on industry standards for full-time manufacturing roles in Georgia and common offerings from large corporations like Koppers. Specific details should be confirmed during the interview process.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Koppers Inc. operates within the Manufacturing sector, specifically focusing on treated wood products for a variety of industries, including utilities, railroads, and construction. Their expertise lies in wood preservation technologies.

Company Size: Koppers Inc. is a publicly traded company with a significant global presence, employing thousands of individuals. This suggests a structured corporate environment with established processes and career development pathways.

Founded: Founded in 1912, Koppers has a long history in the industrial sector, indicating stability, established operational methodologies, and a deep understanding of its market.

Team Structure:

• The production team in Vidalia, GA, likely consists of various roles involved in the wood treatment process, including machine operators, laborers, quality inspectors, and supervisors.

• The reporting structure will typically involve a Production Supervisor who oversees daily operations and a team of associates.

• Cross-functional collaboration will likely occur with quality control, logistics, and maintenance departments to ensure smooth operations and product delivery. Methodology:

• Koppers emphasizes a data-driven approach to production efficiency and quality control, leveraging their expertise in wood preservation.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially in managing the complex processes of wood treatment and pole preparation.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely employed where feasible to enhance safety and productivity in their manufacturing facilities.

Company Website: https://www.koppers.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Koppers' long history and industrial focus suggest a culture that values safety, efficiency, and adherence to established procedures. As a large corporation, expect formal training programs and clear operational guidelines.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Framer" position is an entry-level role within the operations or production workforce. It requires foundational skills in manual labor, tool operation, and adherence to safety protocols. It is a hands-on role focused on executing specific production tasks.

Reporting Structure: Typically, this role reports to a Production Supervisor or Team Lead who manages the daily workflow and performance of the production team. This supervisor will be responsible for training, task assignment, and performance feedback.

Operations Impact: The effective performance of this role directly impacts Koppers' ability to meet production targets and customer order fulfillment. Accurate pole preparation and branding ensure that treated poles meet the necessary quality and identification standards, preventing production delays or customer rejections.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunity to become a proficient operator of various industrial tools and equipment, potentially leading to roles requiring more complex machinery operation.

• Cross-Training: Potential for cross-training in other production areas within the Vidalia facility, broadening skill sets and operational knowledge.

• Team Lead/Supervisor Potential: With proven performance, reliability, and leadership potential, there may be opportunities to advance into roles like Crew Lead or Production Supervisor within the operations team over time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Advancement in these types of roles often hinges on demonstrating reliability, a strong work ethic, a commitment to safety, and a willingness to learn new skills. Consistent performance and a proactive attitude are key indicators for growth opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a manufacturing and production facility environment, not a traditional office setting. The work is performed in an industrial plant and outdoor areas where utility poles are processed and stored.

Office Location(s): Vidalia, GA. This location serves as a key operational hub for Koppers' wood treatment and pole preparation activities.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is dynamic and physically demanding, involving exposure to the elements (heat, cold, rain) and the raw materials (wood, chemicals used in treatment).

• Access to necessary tools, safety equipment (PPE), and machinery will be provided to perform the job functions.

• Opportunities for team interaction will be frequent, as tasks often require coordination with other production associates and supervisors.

Work Schedule: The work schedule is structured around production needs, typically a standard 40-hour work week. However, the nature of manufacturing often requires flexibility for overtime, including evenings or weekends, to meet demand or complete time-sensitive tasks like kiln loading.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared for a physically demanding, outdoor, and potentially noisy work environment. The role requires resilience and adaptability to varying conditions and work schedules.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application to assess basic qualifications, including willingness to perform physical labor and meet physical requirements.

• In-Person Interview: Likely to involve a conversation with a Production Supervisor or Hiring Manager to discuss your work ethic, experience (if any), understanding of safety, and ability to follow instructions. You may be asked to demonstrate physical capabilities or answer scenario-based questions related to teamwork and problem-solving.

• Facility Tour/On-Site Assessment: Potentially a tour of the facility to understand the work environment and, in some cases, a brief practical assessment or demonstration of basic tool handling or physical tasks.

• Background Check & Drug Screening: Standard pre-employment checks will be conducted.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio is not expected. Instead, be prepared to discuss your work history and responsibilities in detail, emphasizing any instances where you:

  • Demonstrated a strong commitment to safety.
  • Followed complex instructions accurately.
  • Worked effectively in a team environment.
  • Handled physical tasks or operated tools.
  • Showed attention to detail in your work.

• Highlighting any experience in production, construction, or manual labor roles will be beneficial. Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer questions about your understanding of safety protocols and your approach to working in demanding conditions.

• Prepare examples of how you have overcome challenges in previous roles, managed your time effectively, or worked collaboratively with colleagues.

• Demonstrate enthusiasm for learning new skills and contributing to a production team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on assessing a candidate's physical aptitude, safety consciousness, and willingness to learn and adapt to the demands of a production environment. Practical demonstrations or scenario-based questions are more likely than technical assessments.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hand Tools: Various wrenches, hammers, screwdrivers, measuring tapes.

• Power Tools: Industrial drills, chainsaws, portable planers.

• Branding Tools: Specialized equipment for marking poles.

• Material Handling Equipment: Potential use of forklifts, pallet jacks, or manual dollies for moving poles and materials.

• Safety Equipment (PPE): Hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, work gloves, safety boots, and potentially specialized protective clothing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly using complex analytics tools, understanding production targets and quality metrics may be part of daily briefings. CRM & Automation:

• Limited direct use of CRM or advanced automation tools for this specific role. Focus is on manual execution of tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role heavily relies on the proficient and safe operation of manual and industrial power tools. Familiarity with these types of tools and a commitment to using them safely and effectively are paramount.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First (Zero Harm): This is the paramount value. All actions must prioritize personal and team safety, adhering strictly to all established safety protocols and procedures.

• Quality & Precision: A commitment to ensuring that each utility pole meets Koppers' high-quality standards and precise customer specifications through careful work.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with fellow production associates and supervisors to achieve shared production goals and maintain an efficient workflow.

• Reliability & Dependability: Being punctual, present, and ready to perform duties as scheduled, contributing consistently to the team's output.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Performing tasks in a timely and effective manner to contribute to overall plant productivity and meet production targets.

Collaboration Style:

• The collaboration style is hands-on and team-oriented, requiring clear communication and coordination among team members on the production floor.

• Process reviews are likely to be informal, occurring daily during shift huddles or as needed between team members and supervisors to address immediate operational issues.

• Knowledge sharing typically happens through on-the-job training, mentorship from experienced colleagues, and supervisor guidance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Koppers' emphasis on "Zero Harm" suggests a culture where safety is not just a policy but a deeply ingrained practice. Candidates who can demonstrate a proactive safety mindset will be highly valued.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Physical Demands: The role requires sustained physical effort, including lifting, bending, and standing for long periods, which can be challenging for some.

• Environmental Conditions: Working outdoors in all types of weather (heat, cold, rain, humidity) presents a significant environmental challenge.

• Repetitive Tasks: Some of the framing and preparation tasks may be repetitive, requiring sustained focus and motivation.

• Safety Risks: Working with heavy materials and powerful machinery inherently involves risks, requiring constant vigilance and strict adherence to safety procedures.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Comprehensive training on specific tool operation, safety procedures, and Koppers' production processes.

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become an expert in specific aspects of pole framing, branding, or equipment operation.

• Cross-Training: Potential to learn and perform tasks in other areas of the production facility, broadening your operational skill set.

• Advancement Pathways: Demonstrating strong performance and a commitment to safety can open doors to roles with increased responsibility, such as lead hand or supervisor positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges involve adapting to the physical and environmental demands of the role. Growth opportunities are typically earned through consistent performance, a strong safety record, and a demonstrated willingness to take on more responsibility.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Safety: "How do you prioritize safety in a physically demanding work environment?" "Describe a time you identified a potential safety hazard and what you did about it."

• Work Ethic: "Describe your experience with manual labor or physically demanding jobs." "How do you stay motivated when performing repetitive tasks?"

• Teamwork: "How do you collaborate with colleagues to achieve a common goal?" "Describe a situation where you had to work closely with others to complete a task."

• Following Instructions: "How important is it to follow detailed instructions in a production setting?" "Describe a time you had to learn a new process or skill quickly."

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Koppers and our products?"

• "What does 'Zero Harm' mean to you in a workplace context?"

• "Why are you interested in working in a manufacturing/production role?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio is not required, be prepared to verbally "walk through" your resume and past experiences.

• For each relevant past role, focus on your specific duties, your contributions to safety, and any examples of your attention to detail or ability to handle physical tasks.

• Be ready to provide specific examples that demonstrate your reliability, work ethic, and ability to learn quickly.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare specific, concise examples from your past experiences that highlight your safety consciousness, physical capability, reliability, and ability to follow instructions. The interview will be assessing your suitability for a hands-on, safety-critical production role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights any previous experience in manufacturing, construction, manual labor, or roles requiring the operation of hand or power tools. Quantify achievements where possible, especially related to safety or efficiency.

• Prepare for Physical Assessment: Be ready to discuss your physical capabilities and willingness to work in outdoor conditions and lift up to 50 lbs.

• Practice Interview Questions: Review common interview questions for entry-level production roles, focusing on safety, teamwork, and work ethic. Prepare specific examples to illustrate your responses.

• Research Koppers: Understand Koppers' business, their commitment to safety ("Zero Harm"), and the general nature of their products. This demonstrates your interest and understanding of the company's operational context.

⚠️ 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.