Framer Operator

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer Operator

Company: Heliene

Location: Mountain Iron, Minnesota, US

Job Type: Full Time - Hourly

Category: Manufacturing Operations

Date Posted: August 10, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Operate specialized manufacturing equipment, specifically the Autobus and Framer machines, in the production of high-efficiency solar modules.

• Uphold stringent quality control standards throughout the photovoltaic module assembly process, ensuring product integrity and performance.

• Serve as a training resource for junior operators, contributing to team development and operational efficiency.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and organized production environment in compliance with all company policies and safety regulations.

• Act as a flexible team member, capable of back-filling various positions on the production floor to ensure continuous 24/7 operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is classified as "Safety Sensitive," indicating a high degree of responsibility for the well-being of oneself and others on the production floor. The emphasis on operating Autobus and Framer equipment suggests a focus on precision assembly and automation within the solar module manufacturing process.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor Autobus and Framer equipment to ensure efficient and high-quality production of solar modules.

• Feed raw materials and components into semi-automated manufacturing machinery.

• Conduct quality checks and perform testing procedures at various stages of the production line, adhering to established criteria.

• Identify and report defective materials, equipment malfunctions, or any questionable conditions to the Production Supervisor.

• Maintain a clean and orderly work area, adhering to 5S principles and all site-specific safety protocols.

• Train new and junior operators on equipment operation, quality standards, and safety procedures.

• Learn and perform duties in multiple production areas to provide relief and support as needed across shifts.

• Adhere strictly to all health, safety, and environmental policies and procedures.

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities for process optimization and efficiency gains.

• Maintain production logs and report output accurately.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on role focused on direct production output, quality assurance, and team support within a manufacturing setting. The "Framer Operator" title specifically points to expertise in the framing stage of solar panel assembly, a critical step for module durability.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent required. Experience:

• No prior experience is strictly necessary; comprehensive on-the-job training will be provided.

• Preference will be given to candidates demonstrating strong technical aptitudes and prior manufacturing experience. Required Skills:

• Attention to Detail: Crucial for ensuring product quality and identifying subtle defects in materials or processes.

• Mechanical Aptitude: Ability to understand and operate machinery, with a preference for candidates with demonstrated technical capabilities.

• Problem-Solving: Capacity to identify issues, troubleshoot basic equipment malfunctions, and report problems effectively.

• Following Instructions: Ability to understand and execute oral and written instructions, including safety procedures and production guidelines.

• Safety Compliance: Commitment to adhering to all company safety policies and procedures, especially in a safety-sensitive environment.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively within a team of operators and contribute to a positive work environment.

• Physical Stamina: Capacity to stand for extended periods, perform repetitive motions, and lift up to 30 lbs.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous manufacturing or assembly line experience.

• Soldering experience.

• Basic computer proficiency for data entry or monitoring systems.

• Experience with lean manufacturing principles or 5S methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: While entry-level candidates are encouraged, the emphasis on "technical capabilities," "troubleshooting skills," and "soldering experience" suggests that candidates with even a basic understanding of manufacturing processes or hands-on technical work will have a competitive edge.

📊 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 hands-on experience or projects that demonstrate their technical aptitude and problem-solving skills.

• Examples could include personal projects involving assembly, fabrication, or basic equipment operation.

• Documented instances of process improvement suggestions or contributions to team efficiency in previous roles (even non-manufacturing) can be valuable. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and their importance in a manufacturing context.

• The ability to learn and follow documented production processes and quality control checklists is essential.

• Familiarity with how feedback loops work in a production environment (e.g., reporting issues to supervisors) is important.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level operator role, the "portfolio" aspect will likely be assessed through behavioral interview questions and discussions about past experiences that demonstrate the required skills, rather than a formal submission of work samples. The focus is on potential and trainability.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Base Wage: $22.50 per hour

• Potential Maximum: $23.50 per hour (likely based on performance, skill acquisition, or shift differential)

• Night Shift Premium: An additional $1.00 per hour for night shifts. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: 100% employer-paid for employees, with a 50% co-pay for spouses and dependents.

• Life Insurance coverage.

• Paid Time Off (PTO).

• Retirement Plan options, including a 401K. Working Hours:

• Rotating 12-hour shifts.

• Work Schedule: 4 days on, 4 days off rotation. This implies a compressed work week, with significant blocks of consecutive days off.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for entry-level manufacturing roles in the Rogers, MN area. The shift differential for night work is a common practice to compensate for less desirable hours. The comprehensive benefits package, particularly the 100% employer-paid health insurance for employees, is a significant perk. The 4-on/4-off schedule offers a unique work-life balance with extended weekends.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Renewable Energy / Solar Module Manufacturing. Heliene is a significant player in the growing solar industry, contributing to climate solutions.

Company Size: Heliene operates multiple manufacturing lines and facilities globally, indicating a medium to large-sized organization with potential for growth and structured operations. The specific facility in Mountain Iron, MN, will likely have its own operational team structure.

Founded: Heliene was founded with a mission to be a leader in renewable energy, emphasizing innovation and sustainability in its operations.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: Composed of Production Supervisors, Framer Operators, and other assembly line personnel.

• Reporting Structure: Framer Operators report directly to a Production Supervisor. The role explicitly states "N/A" for supervision exercised, indicating it is not a supervisory position.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: While primarily focused on production, operators will interact with quality control, maintenance, and potentially logistics teams to ensure smooth operations.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Production: The role involves adhering to quality and testing criteria, suggesting a focus on measurable outcomes.

• Lean Manufacturing Principles: The emphasis on a clean and orderly work environment (5S) and continuous improvement points towards lean operational methodologies.

• Automation Focus: Operation of "semi-automated machines" like Autobus and Framer equipment highlights the integration of technology in their manufacturing processes.

Company Website: https://heliene.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Heliene positions itself as an entrepreneurial, fast-paced company with a strong mission. The "Customer First" principle suggests a focus on reliability and product quality, which translates to rigorous operational standards. The company's growth trajectory implies opportunities for career development within operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an Entry-Level Operator position. It's designed for individuals starting in manufacturing or seeking to enter the renewable energy sector. The role includes responsibilities like training junior operators and back-filling positions, indicating potential for advancement.

Reporting Structure: Directly reports to the Production Supervisor. This provides clear guidance and oversight, essential for learning and adhering to operational protocols.

Operations Impact: Framer Operators are fundamental to Heliene's ability to produce solar modules, directly impacting the company's output, product quality, and ultimately, its contribution to the renewable energy market. Their efficiency and attention to detail are critical for meeting production targets and customer demand.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunities to become proficient in operating multiple types of manufacturing equipment, including Autobus and Framer machines.

• Advancement to Lead Operator/Trainer: Demonstrating leadership potential, strong performance, and the ability to train others can lead to roles with increased responsibility.

• Cross-Training: Learning various roles on the production floor can create flexibility and open doors to different operational areas.

• Potential for Supervisory Roles: With experience and demonstrated leadership, career progression towards a Production Supervisor role may be possible within the organization.

• Exposure to Renewable Energy Sector: Gaining experience in solar manufacturing provides valuable industry-specific knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is positioned as a foundational step in an operations career at Heliene. The "Framer Operator" title, with its specific equipment focus, is a specialized entry point. The inclusion of training duties and the ability to back-fill positions are clear indicators of a structured path for growth and increased responsibility.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Manufacturing Facility. This is a hands-on, production-floor environment.

Office Location(s): Mountain Iron, Minnesota. This location is within the company's operational footprint in the US.

Workspace Context:

• Assembly Line Setting: Work will occur on a production line involving machinery, materials, and other team members.

• Pace: Described as "fast-paced" and requiring "continuous 24/7 production," indicating a dynamic and potentially high-throughput environment.

• Tools & Technology: Operation of semi-automated machinery (Autobus, Framer equipment), likely with some form of Human-Machine Interface (HMI) or control panel. Basic computer use may be involved for reporting or monitoring.

• Collaboration: Close proximity and interaction with fellow operators, supervisors, and potentially quality inspectors.

Work Schedule:

• Shift Work: Rotating 12-hour shifts.

• Rotation: 4 days on, 4 days off. This compressed schedule offers extended periods of time off but requires working full 12-hour shifts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is physically demanding, requiring long periods of standing and repetitive motions. The rotating 12-hour shifts are a significant factor for work-life balance considerations. The "safety-sensitive" nature of the role underscores the importance of vigilance and adherence to protocols.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Resumes will be screened for basic qualifications (age, education) and any relevant experience or demonstrated technical aptitude.

• Skills Assessment/Interview: Candidates may undergo a brief interview to assess their understanding of manufacturing, attention to detail, ability to follow instructions, and general mechanical aptitude. Behavioral questions focusing on teamwork, safety, and problem-solving will likely be used.

• Facility Tour/On-site Assessment: Potentially a tour of the manufacturing floor to gauge comfort with the environment and observe practical skills.

• Pre-employment Checks: Successful candidates will undergo a Criminal Background Check and Drug Screening, as this is a safety-sensitive position.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this entry-level role, focus on verbalizing your experiences rather than submitting a formal portfolio.

• Be prepared to discuss any projects (personal or academic) where you operated machinery, followed technical instructions, or demonstrated problem-solving skills.

• Highlight instances where you showed strong attention to detail or commitment to safety in previous roles, even if they were not in manufacturing.

• If you have soldering experience, be ready to describe your proficiency and any safety measures you followed. Challenge Preparation:

• While formal challenges are unlikely for this specific role, be prepared to answer scenario-based questions. For example: "What would you do if you noticed a defect in a solar module?" or "How would you ensure safety on your workstation?"

• Think about how you would approach learning a new piece of machinery or a new process.

• Consider how you would communicate a problem to your supervisor.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for this role is geared towards assessing foundational skills and potential rather than extensive experience. Emphasis will be placed on attitude, willingness to learn, safety consciousness, and basic technical aptitude.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autobus Equipment: Specialized machinery for automated busbar application on solar cells.

• Framer Equipment: Machinery used to assemble the aluminum frames around solar modules.

• Material Handling Equipment: Potentially basic tools for moving raw materials and finished products.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Production Monitoring Systems: Basic computer interfaces or HMIs on machinery to track output and operational status.

• Quality Control Tools: Measurement devices or visual inspection guides for assessing product quality.

• Reporting Software: Potentially simple software for logging production numbers, defects, or downtime.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly operating CRM, understanding that their work feeds into systems that track production for inventory and sales is beneficial.

• The machinery itself represents automation in the manufacturing process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary "tools" are the specific manufacturing machines (Autobus, Framer). Proficiency in operating these will be developed through on-the-job training. Basic computer literacy is an asset for data logging and monitoring.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value given the "safety-sensitive" designation and the nature of manufacturing operations.

• Quality Driven: Commitment to producing high-quality solar modules that meet stringent standards.

• Efficiency and Productivity: Focus on continuous operation and meeting production targets.

• Teamwork and Support: Collaboration among operators to ensure smooth workflow and mutual support.

• Continuous Improvement: Encouraging operators to identify and suggest ways to enhance processes and safety.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-on and Direct: Operators work closely together on the production line, requiring clear communication and coordination.

• Supportive Learning: The environment encourages senior operators to train and support newer team members.

• Structured Communication: Formal reporting of issues and production status to supervisors is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Heliene's "Customer First" principle likely translates into a culture that values reliability, quality, and efficiency in its production operations. The emphasis on safety and teamwork is typical for a manufacturing environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Adapting to Shift Work: Adjusting to rotating 12-hour shifts and a 4-on/4-off schedule can be challenging for some.

• Physical Demands: The role requires sustained physical activity, including standing for long periods and lifting.

• Learning Complex Machinery: Mastering the operation of specialized equipment like Autobus and Framer machines requires focus and training.

• Maintaining Consistent Quality: Ensuring high standards across every unit produced, especially in a fast-paced environment.

• Working in a Safety-Sensitive Role: Constant vigilance and adherence to safety protocols are critical.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mastery of Solar Module Assembly: Deep understanding of the end-to-end manufacturing process for solar modules.

• Equipment Operation Expertise: Becoming highly skilled in operating specific, advanced manufacturing machinery.

• Quality Assurance Techniques: Developing a keen eye for detail and proficiency in quality testing procedures.

• Leadership Skills: Opportunities to train others and potentially lead small teams or initiatives.

• Industry Knowledge: Gaining practical experience in the rapidly growing renewable energy sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for entry-level manufacturing roles, with specific emphasis on the physical demands and safety aspects. The growth opportunities are clearly defined, offering a path from operator to more skilled or supervisory roles within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical/Operational: "Describe a time you had to learn to operate a new piece of equipment or follow a complex procedure. How did you approach it?" "What steps would you take to ensure the quality of the solar modules you are producing?" "If you noticed a potential safety hazard on the production line, what would you do?"

• Behavioral: "Describe your experience working as part of a team. What was your role?" "How do you handle repetitive tasks?" "What are your strategies for staying focused and attentive during a long shift?"

• Situational: "Imagine the Framer machine is producing modules that don't meet quality standards. What is your immediate course of action?" "How would you approach training a new operator who is struggling to keep up?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working in the solar energy industry?"

• "Why are you interested in Heliene specifically?"

• "What does 'Customer First' mean to you in a manufacturing context?"

• "How do you feel about working rotating 12-hour shifts?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't expected, prepare to verbally present your most relevant experiences.

• For example, if you have manufacturing experience, describe your role, the machines you operated, and any quality or safety protocols you followed.

• If you have no direct manufacturing experience, draw on examples from school projects, hobbies, or other jobs that demonstrate attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, problem-solving, or teamwork.

• Be ready to discuss your soldering experience if applicable, highlighting safety and precision.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong work ethic, a commitment to safety and quality, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Highlighting any past experience that showcases these traits, even in a non-manufacturing context, will be beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP Career Center link.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights any manufacturing, assembly, technical, or hands-on experience. If you have no direct experience, emphasize transferable skills like attention to detail, problem-solving, teamwork, and any experience with tools or machinery.

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Think of specific examples from your past that demonstrate your ability to follow instructions, work safely, collaborate with others, and maintain focus in demanding environments.

• Research Heliene: Understand their mission in renewable energy, their commitment to quality, and the significance of their products. This will help you articulate your interest and align with their values.

• Clarify Availability: Be prepared to discuss your availability for rotating 12-hour shifts and the 4-on/4-off schedule.

⚠️ 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.