Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer Company: Koppers Inc. Location: Kennedy, AL Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Manufacturing Operations / Skilled Trades Date Posted: November 19, 2025 Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on hands-on production within a manufacturing environment, specifically involving the preparation and framing of utility poles to meet stringent quality and customer specifications.
• It requires proficient operation of various hand and industrial tools, ensuring materials are handled safely and efficiently to prevent product damage.
• The position emphasizes adherence to safety regulations and compliance with Zero Harm policies, critical for maintaining a safe and productive workplace.
• This is a physically demanding role that requires working outdoors in various weather conditions and performing manual labor tasks, with a commitment to overtime when production demands.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Operate all assigned equipment, including industrial drills and chainsaws, in a safe and appropriate manner, adhering to operational procedures.
• Handle utility poles and associated materials with care to prevent damage, breakage, or compromise of product integrity, ensuring they meet Koppers' quality standards.
• Utilize various hand tools, such as portable planers and branding tools, to precisely shape, mark, and prepare poles according to customer specifications and internal quality controls.
• Perform minor maintenance on tools and equipment to ensure optimal performance and longevity, reporting any significant issues to supervisors promptly.
• Execute manual labor tasks, including placing steel beams between pole layers during loading into dry kilns, and other general duties as assigned by production management.
• Strictly follow all safety regulations and requirements established for Zero Harm compliance, actively participating in safety training and hazard identification initiatives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent (Preferred) Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a hands-on production, manufacturing, or skilled trades environment.

Required Skills:

• Willingness to engage in hands-on, physical production activities.
• Ability to work effectively in all outdoor weather conditions, including wet, hot, and cold environments.
• Physical capacity to lift up to 50 lbs consistently throughout the workday.
• Basic understanding and safe operation of hand tools and some industrial equipment.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure precise execution of framing and branding tasks.
• Commitment to working safely and following all established safety regulations and protocols.
• Willingness to work overtime as required by production schedules and demands.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a production team and take direction from supervisors.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience operating chainsaws, industrial drills, or portable planers.
• Familiarity with material handling techniques in a manufacturing or industrial setting.
• Basic mechanical aptitude for performing minor equipment maintenance.
• Prior exposure to wood treatment or lumber yard operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The AI-generated experience level of "0-2" aligns with the preference for a High School Diploma and the emphasis on essential physical capabilities and willingness to learn, suggesting this role is designed for individuals entering a skilled trade or production environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples of previous work that demonstrate attention to detail, safe operation of tools, or successful completion of physical tasks.
• Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they approach learning new processes and equipment safely and efficiently, showcasing their ability to adapt to specific operational workflows.
• The ability to understand and follow process documentation for pole preparation, branding, and material handling will be assessed during the interview and onboarding.
• Demonstrated understanding of quality control principles in a production setting, such as checking specifications and ensuring product integrity, is advantageous.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates will be trained on specific Koppers processes for pole framing, including precise measurements, tool usage, and safety protocols.
• Understanding and adherence to the workflow for operating equipment like industrial drills and portable planers will be a key part of the training, focusing on efficiency and accuracy.
• The role involves contributing to the documentation of daily tasks, equipment checks, and any deviations from standard operating procedures, supporting continuous improvement efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature and "Framer" title, a traditional operations portfolio is unlikely. The focus here is on demonstrating capability through direct discussions about experience, willingness to learn, and understanding of safety and quality in a hands-on context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for skilled trades and manufacturing roles in Kennedy, AL, and considering the entry-level experience requirement, a competitive hourly wage is estimated between $15 - $20 per hour. This range can vary based on demonstrated skills, prior experience, and performance during the probationary period.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with company matching contributions.
• Paid Time Off: Accrual of vacation time, sick leave, and paid holidays.
• Life Insurance: Company-paid life insurance and options for supplemental coverage.
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Training & Development: Opportunities for on-the-job training and skill enhancement.

Working Hours: Standard work hours are Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with a 30-minute lunch break. Production requirements may necessitate adjustments to these hours, including potential overtime and occasional weekend work. Inclement weather may also impact the work schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on Koppers' general compensation practices for similar on-site, full-time positions in similar rural locations in the US, adjusted for the entry-level nature of the role and the specific requirements of physical labor and outdoor work. Benefits information is standardized for large manufacturing companies in the US.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Koppers Inc. operates within the Wood Preservation and Carbon Materials & Chemicals sectors, serving diverse markets including utilities, railroad, construction, and industrial sectors. This specific role is situated within the utility pole treatment and manufacturing segment. Company Size: Koppers Inc. is a medium to large-sized enterprise, employing over 6,000 individuals globally across its various divisions and international locations. Founded: Koppers was founded in 1912, bringing over a century of experience in industrial solutions and material science, which informs its established operational practices and commitment to quality.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will be part of a production team focused on utility pole preparation. This team typically consists of several Framers, equipment operators, and a production supervisor.
• The reporting structure is direct, with the Framer reporting to a Production Supervisor who oversees daily operations, workflow, and team performance.
• Collaboration is essential with other team members for material handling, equipment sharing, and ensuring smooth transitions between different stages of the pole preparation process. Cross-functional interaction may occur with quality control inspectors and maintenance personnel.

Methodology:

• Koppers emphasizes a data-driven approach to quality control, ensuring that each utility pole meets precise specifications through regular checks and measurements.
• Workflow planning and optimization are crucial for maintaining production efficiency, especially in a role that involves managing materials and equipment effectively throughout the day.
• The company promotes an environment of continuous improvement, encouraging employees to identify and suggest methods for enhancing safety, efficiency, and product quality.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of Koppers' industry and history highlights its stability and expertise, which can be appealing to candidates seeking long-term employment in skilled trades. The emphasis on quality and data-driven processes suggests a structured operational environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Framer position represents an entry-level to early-career role within the manufacturing operations domain. It is foundational for developing practical skills in a production environment, focusing on specific manual tasks and equipment operation. Reporting Structure: The role typically reports to a Production Supervisor or a Foreman, who provides direct oversight, task assignment, and performance feedback. This structure is common in manufacturing settings to ensure immediate guidance and adherence to operational protocols. Operations Impact: While not directly managing revenue streams, the Framer's role is critical for ensuring the quality and readiness of utility poles, which directly impacts customer satisfaction, product delivery timelines, and the company's reputation for reliability. Efficient and accurate framing contributes to cost control by minimizing rework and material waste.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Progression to operating more complex machinery, becoming an expert in specific framing techniques, or moving into quality inspection roles.
• Leadership Development: Potential to advance into lead hand or supervisory positions within the production team, requiring demonstrated leadership, problem-solving skills, and a strong understanding of operational processes.
• Cross-Functional Movement: Opportunities to move into related operational areas such as equipment maintenance, inventory management, or logistics, depending on acquired skills and company needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities outlined are typical for manufacturing and skilled trades roles, emphasizing practical skill development and potential advancement within the operational hierarchy.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is exclusively on-site within a manufacturing facility dedicated to wood treatment and pole preparation. The environment includes outdoor work areas, covered workstations, and potentially indoor processing zones. Office Location(s): Kennedy, AL. This location likely involves working in an industrial setting that may be exposed to elements.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is dynamic and physically demanding, requiring constant movement, lifting, and operation of tools and machinery in an outdoor or semi-outdoor capacity.
• Access to necessary tools, equipment, and personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided to ensure safe and effective task completion.
• Opportunities for interaction with the production team and supervisors are frequent, fostering a collaborative environment for task coordination and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The primary schedule is Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Flexibility is required to accommodate production demands, which may include mandatory overtime and potential adjustments due to weather or operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the work environment highlights the physical and outdoor nature of the role, which is crucial for candidates to understand. The emphasis on PPE and safety protocols is standard for industrial settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess basic qualifications, including willingness to perform physical labor and work outdoors.
• In-Person Interview: A meeting with the hiring manager or supervisor to discuss experience, skills, and suitability for the role. This may include a tour of the facility.
• Skills Assessment: Practical demonstration or discussion of experience with relevant tools (e.g., hand tools, drills) and an assessment of physical capability to perform job tasks.
• Safety & Compliance Discussion: Evaluation of understanding and commitment to safety regulations and company policies.
• Offer & Onboarding: Successful candidates will receive a job offer and begin the onboarding process, which includes comprehensive safety training and job-specific instruction.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio is not expected. Instead, candidates should be prepared to verbally articulate their experience with tools, physical tasks, and any previous production or manual labor roles.
• Highlight instances where attention to detail led to successful outcomes or where you adhered strictly to safety procedures.
• Be ready to discuss your understanding of quality standards and how you ensure your work meets specific requirements.
• If you have any certifications related to equipment operation or safety (e.g., OSHA), be prepared to present them.

Challenge Preparation:

• Candidates may be asked to describe how they would approach a specific task, such as preparing a pole for branding or operating a particular tool, emphasizing safety and precision.
• Be prepared to discuss how you handle challenging work environments, such as extreme weather conditions or physically demanding tasks, and your strategies for maintaining focus and productivity.
• Anticipate questions about teamwork and your ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues to meet production goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process described is typical for skilled trades and entry-level production roles, focusing on practical abilities and safety. The advice emphasizes preparing to discuss hands-on experience rather than presenting a formal portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hand Tools: Various wrenches, hammers, measuring tapes, and other manual tools for adjustments and preparation.
• Industrial Drills: Power drills designed for heavy-duty use on wood, requiring precision and safety.
• Chainsaws: For specific cutting or shaping tasks on utility poles, operated with strict safety protocols.
• Portable Planers: Used to create flat surfaces on poles as per specifications.
• Branding Tools: Equipment used to imprint customer identification or other marks onto the poles.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly involved in data analytics, the role contributes to production tracking through daily task completion logs and equipment usage reports.
• Adherence to quality control checklists and reporting any deviations from standards.

CRM & Automation:

• This role is primarily manual and does not typically involve direct interaction with CRM systems or advanced automation software. The focus is on physical execution of tasks as directed by production management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are specific to wood processing and utility pole preparation, indicating the hands-on, mechanical nature of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Zero Harm: A paramount value, emphasizing that safety is the top priority in all activities, with a commitment to preventing accidents and injuries.
• Quality: Dedication to meeting Koppers' high standards and customer specifications for all products.
• Teamwork: Collaboration and mutual support among team members to achieve production goals efficiently and safely.
• Accountability: Taking responsibility for one's actions, equipment, and adherence to procedures.
• Efficiency: Striving for optimal performance in tasks to meet production targets while maintaining quality and safety.

Collaboration Style:

• The team operates with a direct, hands-on collaborative style, where team members assist each other with material handling, tool sharing, and task completion to ensure workflow continuity.
• Open communication with supervisors regarding any operational challenges, safety concerns, or suggestions for improvement is encouraged.
• A culture of shared responsibility for maintaining a safe and productive work environment is fostered.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Zero Harm" is a strong indicator of Koppers' safety culture, which is common and critical in industrial manufacturing environments.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Environmental Conditions: Working outdoors in varying weather (heat, cold, rain) presents a significant challenge requiring resilience and proper preparation.
• Physical Demands: The role requires consistent physical exertion, including lifting, carrying, and operating tools, which can be demanding over long periods.
• Learning Curve: Mastering the safe and efficient operation of specialized tools like chainsaws and portable planers requires focused training and practice.
• Production Pressure: Meeting daily production quotas while maintaining high standards for quality and safety can be challenging, especially during peak demand periods.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Comprehensive training provided by experienced colleagues and supervisors on equipment operation, safety procedures, and quality standards.
• Safety Certifications: Opportunities to gain or refresh certifications in workplace safety, such as OSHA standards.
• Skill Advancement: Potential to learn to operate additional types of machinery or take on more complex tasks within the framing or treatment processes.
• Career Progression: Clear pathways for advancement into lead roles or supervisory positions for individuals who demonstrate strong performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to Koppers' values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges and opportunities are framed to align with an entry-level industrial role, focusing on practical skill acquisition and adaptability to demanding work conditions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with physical labor or working in demanding outdoor conditions. How do you prepare for such environments?" (Focus on resilience, preparation, and safety mindset).
• "How do you ensure you are operating tools and equipment safely and correctly?" (Emphasize adherence to training, reading manuals, asking questions, and using PPE).
• "What does 'quality' mean to you in a production setting, and how do you ensure your work meets quality standards?" (Discuss attention to detail, following specifications, and checking your work).
• "Imagine you need to frame a pole according to exact customer specifications. What steps would you take?" (Outline a logical process: understand specs, gather tools, measure carefully, perform task, verify results).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Koppers and our commitment to safety?" (Research "Zero Harm," Koppers' industry, and their commitment to sustainability).
• "How do you approach working as part of a team to achieve a common goal?" (Provide examples of teamwork, communication, and supporting colleagues).
• "Why are you interested in this Framer position specifically?" (Connect your skills and interests to the job description, emphasizing hands-on work, learning new skills, and contributing to production).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't expected, be prepared to verbally "walk through" a past project or task where you applied attention to detail, handled tools, or worked in a team to achieve a production goal.
• Use specific examples to illustrate your skills and work ethic. For instance, "In my previous role at [X], I was responsible for [task], and I ensured accuracy by [method], which resulted in [positive outcome]."
• Be ready to discuss your understanding of safety protocols and how you would apply them in this role, drawing on any relevant past experiences or training.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are tailored to assess the core competencies required for a hands-on, safety-conscious production role in an industrial setting.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday application link on the Koppers careers page.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience with manual labor, tool operation, outdoor work, or production environments. Use keywords from the job description such as "material handling," "equipment operation," "safety compliance," and "attention to detail."
• Prepare for On-Site Interview: Be ready to discuss your practical skills, physical capabilities, and understanding of safety protocols. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate your work ethic and ability to follow instructions.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Koppers Inc., its mission, values (especially "Zero Harm"), and its role in the utility pole industry. Understand the importance of quality and customer specifications in their operations.
• Logistics: Confirm your availability for the specified working hours, including potential overtime, and your ability to reliably commute to the Kennedy, AL location.

⚠️ 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.