Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Koppers Inc.

Location: Leesville, LA, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Manufacturing & Trades

Date Posted: 2026-06-22

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Operates and maintains equipment to frame utility poles, ensuring adherence to Koppers quality standards and customer specifications.

• Utilizes various hand tools, industrial drills, chainsaws, and portable planers for precise pole preparation.

• Executes manual labor tasks, including material handling and placement of steel beams, to support production processes.

• Strictly adheres to all safety regulations and contributes to the company's Zero Harm compliance initiatives.

• Works outdoors in diverse weather conditions, demonstrating physical resilience and adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Framer," the responsibilities clearly indicate a role within a manufacturing or wood treatment facility focused on preparing utility poles. This is not a typical framing role in construction. The "operations" context here is in the physical production and quality control of treated wood products.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Operate all framing and preparation equipment safely and efficiently, adhering to operational guidelines.

• Handle utility poles and associated materials with care to prevent damage and ensure product integrity.

• Employ a range of hand tools, industrial drills, chainsaws, and portable planers to shape, cut, and prepare poles as per specifications.

• Accurately brand customer information onto poles, ensuring legibility and correct placement.

• Perform routine, minor maintenance on tools and equipment to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

• Safely place steel beams between layers of poles during the loading process for dry kilns.

• Execute various manual labor tasks as assigned, contributing to the overall production flow.

• Diligently follow all safety regulations and requirements to uphold Zero Harm compliance.

• Participate in overtime as needed to meet production demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a hands-on role focused on the physical transformation of raw materials into finished utility poles. Emphasis is placed on operational efficiency, quality control, and stringent safety protocols, which are critical in a manufacturing environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a hands-on production or manual labor environment.

Required Skills:

• Willingness to engage in hands-on physical production tasks.

• Ability to work effectively in all outdoor weather conditions, including wet, hot, and cold environments.

• Physical capability to lift up to 50 lbs consistently.

• Basic understanding and adherence to safety procedures.

• Ability to work collaboratively with team members.

• Keen attention to detail for quality assurance. Preferred Skills:

• Experience operating industrial equipment such as drills, chainsaws, or planers.

• Prior experience in a manufacturing or lumber treatment setting.

• Familiarity with quality control processes in a production environment.

• Basic mechanical aptitude for minor equipment maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize physical stamina and adaptability to environmental conditions, along with a willingness to learn and perform manual tasks. Formal education is not a strict requirement, positioning this as an entry-level opportunity for individuals with a strong work ethic and physical capacity.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Not applicable for this role. The focus is on manual execution and adherence to established processes rather than system design or analytical portfolio development. Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to follow documented safety and operational procedures for equipment use and material handling.

• Adherence to quality control checklists and customer specification guides will be a key aspect of the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a hands-on operational role like this, a traditional "process and systems portfolio" is not typical. The expectation is adherence to existing, well-defined company processes and safety protocols rather than the creation or management of complex systems.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for similar on-site, full-time manual labor and manufacturing roles in Leesville, LA, and considering the entry-level experience requirement, an estimated salary range would be $15.00 - $18.00 per hour.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, vision) - details typically provided upon hire.

• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave) - accrual rates may vary.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k) - potential company match.

• Opportunities for overtime pay.

• Commitment to Zero Harm safety programs and training.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime. Schedules may be subject to change based on production needs and weather conditions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on regional cost of living and prevailing wages for entry-level manufacturing and trade roles in Louisiana. Specific benefit details are often withheld in initial job postings but are generally standard for full-time positions at established companies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Koppers Inc. operates in the wood treatment and wood products industry, a sector critical for infrastructure, construction, and utilities. This industry requires robust safety standards and efficient production processes.

Company Size: Koppers Inc. is a large, established corporation, indicated by its presence on a corporate job portal. This suggests a structured work environment with defined processes and HR policies.

Founded: Koppers was founded in 1912, signifying a long history and deep expertise in its field. This longevity often translates to stable operations and a well-established corporate culture.

Team Structure:

• The operations team likely consists of various skilled trades and production roles, including framers, machine operators, and yard personnel.

• Reporting structure is expected to be hierarchical, with framers reporting to a shift supervisor or production lead.

• Cross-functional collaboration will occur with quality control, maintenance, and logistics teams to ensure smooth production and shipment of poles. Methodology:

• Data analysis is primarily focused on production output, efficiency metrics, and safety incident rates.

• Workflow planning is essential for managing material flow from raw wood to treated poles, considering seasonal weather impacts.

• Automation is likely integrated into specific machinery, but manual labor and skilled execution remain central to the framing process.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Given Koppers' industry and history, the company culture is likely to be safety-centric, process-driven, and focused on operational efficiency. The large company size implies established HR practices and career development frameworks.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Framer" position is at an entry-level or early-career stage within the manufacturing and trades sector. It's designed for individuals looking to gain practical experience in a production environment.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a Production Supervisor or Lead Framer, who oversees daily operations, assigns tasks, and ensures adherence to procedures.

Operations Impact: Framers directly contribute to the quality and readiness of essential utility infrastructure components. Their efficiency and precision impact the downstream treatment, shipping, and ultimately, the reliability of Koppers' products for their customers.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Lead Framer or specialized equipment operator roles within the framing department.

• Transition into related operational roles such as Yard Supervisor, Quality Inspector, or team leader.

• Opportunities for on-the-job training and certifications in areas like forklift operation, specialized tool usage, or advanced safety protocols.

• Potential to move into other operational departments within Koppers over time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this type of role is typically through demonstrated proficiency, reliability, and a willingness to take on more responsibility. Koppers' established structure likely offers a clear, albeit potentially sequential, path for career progression within its operational divisions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a hands-on, production floor and outdoor yard environment. While there may be an administrative office for supervisors and support staff, the framer's primary workspace is the operational area.

Office Location(s): Leesville, LA. This facility is likely situated in an industrial park or area suitable for wood treatment and logistics operations.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace involves operating machinery and handling large wooden poles in an outdoor setting, requiring appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Access to industrial drills, chainsaws, planers, and material handling equipment is provided.

• Collaboration happens directly on the production floor with team members and supervisors, fostering a hands-on, team-oriented atmosphere.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with flexibility to accommodate production demands and potential overtime. The outdoor nature of the work means schedules can be influenced by weather conditions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is physically demanding and requires adaptability. Safety is paramount, and the role involves constant interaction with materials, equipment, and colleagues in a dynamic setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Resumes and applications will be screened for minimum qualifications, focusing on physical capability, willingness to work outdoors, and any relevant experience.

• On-site Interview: Candidates will likely meet with a hiring manager or supervisor. This may include a brief tour of the facility and a discussion about the role's demands.

• Skills Assessment/Demonstration: A practical assessment or demonstration of ability to handle tools or perform basic physical tasks might be included, though for an entry-level role, this could be observational.

• Reference Checks: Professional references will be contacted to verify work history and reliability.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio is not required. Instead, focus on clearly articulating your work ethic, reliability, physical capabilities, and understanding of safety in your resume and during the interview.

• Be prepared to discuss any past experiences that demonstrate your ability to follow instructions, work in challenging conditions, and contribute to a team. Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of safety protocols and your commitment to a Zero Harm environment.

• Prepare to answer questions about your physical ability to perform the job duties, including lifting and working outdoors in various weather.

• Think about examples of times you've worked as part of a team or followed complex instructions in a demanding environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application and interview process for this role will prioritize practical capabilities and attitude over formal documentation. Candidates should emphasize their commitment to safety, physical readiness, and teamwork.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hand Tools: Various manual tools for adjustments, positioning, and minor fabrication.

• Industrial Drills: For creating precise holes in utility poles.

• Chainsaws: For cutting and shaping wooden poles.

• Portable Planer: For creating flat surfaces on poles.

• Material Handling Equipment: May include forklifts, cranes, or other machinery for moving large poles.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly using complex analytics tools, framers will be expected to adhere to production logs and quality control reports. CRM & Automation:

• Minimal direct interaction with CRM systems. Automation is present in the machinery operated, not in administrative or analytical software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on industrial machinery and tools used in wood processing and manufacturing. Proficiency is gained through on-the-job training rather than prior software expertise.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First (Zero Harm): This is the paramount value, with all operations geared towards preventing accidents and injuries.

• Quality & Precision: Ensuring poles meet strict Koppers and customer specifications is crucial for product integrity.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to maintain production flow and support each other.

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

• Efficiency: Optimizing processes to maximize output while maintaining quality and safety standards.

Collaboration Style:

• Direct, hands-on collaboration on the production floor.

• Clear communication of tasks, safety concerns, and production status between team members and supervisors.

• A culture of mutual support, where team members help each other to meet daily goals and ensure safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely to be grounded in industrial best practices, with a strong emphasis on safety and operational discipline. Teamwork is essential for managing the physical demands and workflow of the production environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Physical Demands: The role requires significant physical exertion, including lifting, standing for long periods, and working in potentially uncomfortable weather conditions.

• Safety Risks: Operating heavy machinery and working with large materials presents inherent safety risks that require constant vigilance.

• Weather Dependency: Outdoor work means potential disruptions to schedules and the need to adapt to varying temperatures, rain, and humidity.

• Repetitive Tasks: While varied, some tasks may be repetitive, requiring sustained focus and motivation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Comprehensive training on equipment operation, safety procedures, and quality standards.

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become proficient with specific tools and machinery, potentially leading to higher-skilled roles.

• Safety Certifications: Possibility of obtaining certifications in areas like forklift operation or advanced safety training.

• Cross-Training: Potential for cross-training in other areas of the facility to broaden experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for hands-on manufacturing and trade roles. Growth is primarily through skill acquisition and demonstrated performance in the operational environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with physical labor or working in outdoor environments." (Focus on resilience, adaptability, and any relevant past roles.)

• "How do you prioritize safety in a work setting?" (Emphasize adherence to protocols, vigilance, and commitment to Zero Harm.)

• "Can you explain your understanding of quality standards in a production context?" (Discuss the importance of precision, attention to detail, and meeting specifications.)

• "How do you handle working as part of a team?" (Highlight cooperation, communication, and supporting colleagues.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Koppers and our industry?" (Research Koppers' products, mission, and commitment to sustainability/safety.)

• "How do you feel about working in varying weather conditions?" (Reiterate your willingness and physical capacity.)

• "What are your expectations regarding work hours and potential overtime?" (Show flexibility and understanding of production needs.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Not applicable for this role. Focus on clearly communicating your relevant skills, experience, and attitude through your resume, application, and interview responses. Be prepared to verbally walk through your resume and highlight key achievements or experiences related to physical work, safety, and teamwork.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong work ethic, commitment to safety, physical readiness, and a cooperative attitude. Concrete examples of past experiences will be more impactful than theoretical discussions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Framer position:

• Submit your application through the Koppers Inc. career portal (link provided).

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience with manual labor, operating machinery, working outdoors, or in production environments. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Handled X amount of materials daily").

• Prepare for Physicality Discussion: Be ready to confidently discuss your physical capabilities and willingness to work in all weather conditions, as this is a critical job requirement.

• Emphasize Safety: Review Koppers' commitment to "Zero Harm" and be prepared to articulate your understanding and commitment to workplace safety.

• Research Koppers: Understand the company's business, its products (utility poles), and its values to demonstrate genuine interest during the interview.

⚠️ 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.

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