US - Cameron -Framing - Poles - Framer 2

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer 2

Company: Stella-Jones

Location: Cameron, Wisconsin, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Manufacturing Operations

Date Posted: March 16, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This is a hands-on manufacturing role focused on the production of round stock products essential for utilities and railroads.

• The position requires adherence to strict quality standards (ANSI, ASTM, Corporate) and efficient operation of various tools for product preparation.

• Key responsibilities include material inspection, processing, documentation, and maintaining a safe and organized work environment.

• This role is critical in ensuring that raw materials are processed correctly and efficiently for subsequent treatment and distribution, directly impacting the supply chain for infrastructure products.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "Framer 2" and the responsibilities clearly indicate a role within a manufacturing or production environment, specifically focused on preparing raw materials (round stock poles) for treatment. The mention of "utilities and railroads" and "big box home improvement stores" suggests a B2B and B2C supply chain context. The "Framer 3" classification during training highlights a structured onboarding process for entry-level or less experienced individuals.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Inspect and verify the quality and classification of all incoming round stock materials against established ANSI, ASTM, or Corporate standards to ensure compliance.

• Operate hand and framing tools, including cutting, drilling, gaining, branding, and tagging equipment, to prepare poles accurately for the treatment process.

• Document and maintain accurate records of all processed materials, including quantities, classifications, and any deviations.

• Maintain a high standard of cleanliness and organization within the work area, ensuring all tools, equipment, and supplies are properly stored and maintained.

• Assist in the comprehensive inspection of all round stock products, contributing to overall quality control efforts.

• Support the receiving process for incoming materials, including tallying, identification, and accurate record-keeping of information.

• Operate specialized machinery such as full-length and deep incisors as required for specific product preparation tasks.

• Utilize the pole tag machine to manufacture aluminum tags as needed for product identification and tracking.

• Actively participate in and contribute to the company's safety program, adhering to all safety protocols and reporting any potential hazards.

• Perform other assigned duties that contribute to the efficient and safe operation of the production facility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are detailed and action-oriented, focusing on the physical processing of materials. The inclusion of specific standards (ANSI, ASTM) and equipment (incisors, tag machine) points to a specialized manufacturing process. The probationary period and training phase for "Framer 3" suggest a structured approach to skill development within the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific educational degree is mandated, a strong understanding of measurement, basic math, and the ability to follow technical instructions are essential. A high school diploma or GED is typically preferred for manufacturing roles of this nature.

Experience: Entry-level candidates with 0-2 years of experience are encouraged to apply. Previous experience in a manufacturing, workshop, or manual labor environment is beneficial but not strictly required, as comprehensive training will be provided. Experience operating hand tools and power tools is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in interpreting and adhering to quality standards (e.g., ANSI, ASTM).

• Ability to operate hand and framing tools safely and effectively.

• Skills in measuring, cutting, drilling, and preparing materials according to specifications.

• Competency in documenting material processed and maintaining basic records.

• Understanding and application of workplace safety procedures and protocols.

• Physical stamina and ability to perform manual labor, including lifting and standing for extended periods.

• Basic equipment maintenance and work area organization skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specialized industrial equipment such as incisors or tag machines.

• Familiarity with inventory management or material tracking systems.

• Demonstrated ability to learn new processes and operate machinery quickly.

• Previous experience in a production or fabrication role within the wood treatment or lumber industry.

• Basic understanding of quality control principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 Years" experience level suggests that the role is designed for individuals starting their careers in manufacturing or trades. The required skills are fundamental to the described tasks, while preferred skills indicate areas where prior experience would be advantageous but not a barrier to entry.

📊 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 prior experience or projects demonstrating attention to detail, adherence to procedures, and quality consciousness.

• Examples could include personal woodworking projects, technical training certifications, or any documented instances of process improvement or problem-solving in previous roles.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of following documented procedures for material processing and quality assurance.

• The ability to accurately document material processed and report on output is a key aspect of the role, requiring clear and concise record-keeping.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature and manual labor focus, a traditional "operations portfolio" is unlikely to be expected. The emphasis here is on the candidate's ability to follow instructions, document work, and adhere to quality standards, which can be demonstrated through resume highlights and interview discussions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for skilled manufacturing roles with 0-2 years of experience in Wisconsin, the estimated hourly wage for a Framer 2 position is approximately $20.00 - $26.00 per hour. This range accounts for the entry-level nature of the role, the training provided, and the physical demands.

Benefits:

• The security of working for a company designated as an essential workplace.

• Comprehensive total benefits package with 3 medical plans to choose from.

• Company-paid benefits:

  • Dental and Vision coverage.
  • Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) policies.
  • Long-Term Disability Coverage.
  • Access to a robust employee assistance program.

• Competitive compensation structure.

• Annual bonus program opportunity, rewarding performance.

• 401(k) savings plan with a generous Company match (150% on the first 4% deferred).

• Paid Time Off: 2 weeks of vacation and 9 paid holidays.

• Opportunities for career advancement within the organization.

• Ability to purchase Company stock, fostering employee ownership.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position, typically involving a standard 40-hour work week. Specific shift details will be provided during the interview process, but operations roles often require flexibility to accommodate production schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from publicly available data for similar manufacturing and skilled trade roles in Wisconsin, considering the "0-2 Years" experience level and the specific responsibilities. The benefits package is extensive and includes many company-paid options, which are significant value adds for operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Stella-Jones operates in the Manufacturing sector, specifically focusing on essential infrastructure products like treated wood utility poles, railway ties, and related products. Their market includes utilities, railroads, and the retail sector (big box home improvement stores). This industry often values reliability, safety, efficiency, and strong customer relationships.

Company Size: Stella-Jones employs over 3,000 people across the United States and Canada. This indicates a large, established organization with a significant operational footprint. For operations professionals, this size often means structured processes, opportunities for advancement within a large network, and potentially more specialized roles.

Founded: Founded in 1997 (publicly traded on Toronto Stock Exchange) and headquartered in Montreal, Canada. This indicates a company with a solid history and established market presence.

Team Structure:

• The operations team within a Stella-Jones facility likely consists of various specialized roles, including production workers (like Framers), supervisors, quality control personnel, maintenance technicians, and logistics coordinators.

• Reporting structures are typically hierarchical, with production workers reporting to shift supervisors or lead hands, who in turn report to plant managers.

Methodology:

• Stella-Jones emphasizes a data-driven approach to quality and efficiency, evidenced by their adherence to specific industry standards (ANSI, ASTM).

• Workflow planning and optimization are crucial for maximizing throughput and minimizing waste in a manufacturing environment.

• The company's focus on safety and continuous improvement suggests a culture that encourages proactive problem-solving and adherence to best practices.

Company Website: https://www.stella-jones.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's industry and size suggest a professional, process-oriented environment where efficiency, safety, and quality are paramount. The "essential workplace" designation provides a sense of stability.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Framer 2" role is positioned at an entry-level to early-career stage within the manufacturing operations track. It's an opportunity to gain foundational skills and experience in producing essential infrastructure components. Progression from Framer 2 to Framer 1 (implying higher proficiency or responsibility) or into other operational roles like Machine Operator, Quality Inspector, or even a Supervisory role is possible with demonstrated performance and skill development.

Reporting Structure: The Framer 2 will report to a Shift Supervisor or Production Lead. This direct line of reporting provides clear guidance and performance feedback, crucial for development in an operational role. Collaboration will occur with peers on the production floor, as well as with maintenance and quality personnel.

Operations Impact: While not a strategic planning role, the Framer 2's work directly impacts the company's ability to produce and deliver products on time and to specification. Consistent quality and efficient processing by Framers are foundational to the entire production cycle, influencing downstream processes (treatment, shipping) and ultimately customer satisfaction and revenue.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to become proficient in operating more complex machinery, gain certifications in specific tooling, or develop expertise in quality inspection techniques.

• Career Progression: Potential to move into higher-level production roles (e.g., Framer 1, Senior Operator), cross-train into maintenance or quality assurance, or pursue leadership opportunities as a Lead Hand or Supervisor.

• Learning & Development: Stella-Jones offers opportunities for career advancement, which may include on-the-job training, mentorship from experienced colleagues, and potentially access to external training relevant to manufacturing operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path from this entry-level role is clearly defined within the manufacturing operations function, emphasizing hands-on skill development and potential advancement into more skilled or supervisory positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a plant/factory floor based role. The primary work environment will be within the manufacturing facility where poles are processed.

Office Location(s): The specific facility is located in Cameron, Wisconsin. This location will house the production lines, equipment, and administrative offices relevant to the plant's operations.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be dynamic and potentially noisy, typical of a manufacturing environment. It will involve standing for extended periods, working with machinery, and handling materials.

• The facility is equipped with the necessary tools, machinery (cutting, drilling, branding, tagging equipment, incisors, tag machines), and safety equipment to perform the job duties.

• Opportunities for team interaction will be constant on the production floor, fostering a collaborative atmosphere focused on achieving production targets safely and efficiently.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, typically 40 hours per week. Operations roles may require flexibility in shifts (day/evening/night) and potentially working weekends or overtime depending on production demands. The company values providing a stable work schedule while meeting business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description clearly points to a physically demanding, on-site role within a manufacturing plant, emphasizing practical, hands-on work in a team-oriented setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application and resume to assess basic qualifications and experience against the job requirements.

• On-site Interview: Typically involves meeting with the hiring manager (e.g., Production Supervisor) and potentially a team lead or HR representative. This interview will focus on your understanding of the role, your work ethic, your ability to follow instructions, and your commitment to safety.

• Skills Assessment/Practical Test: For a role like this, there might be a practical demonstration of basic tool handling, measurement accuracy, or a tour of the facility to assess your understanding of the work environment and safety protocols.

• Probationary Period: As noted, the first 90 days serve as a training and evaluation period, where your proficiency as a Framer 2 (progressing towards Framer 1) will be assessed.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio is not expected. Instead, focus on highlighting relevant experience on your resume.

• Emphasize any experience involving the use of hand tools, power tools, measurement, following technical instructions, or working in physically demanding environments.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you approach learning new tasks and following instructions.

• Highlight instances where you have prioritized safety in a previous work environment.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of quality and accuracy in production.

• Think about how you would handle a situation where you were unsure about a procedure or the quality of a material.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process is geared towards assessing practical skills, safety consciousness, and trainability for an entry-level manufacturing role, rather than formal project portfolios.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hand Tools: Various wrenches, hammers, measuring tapes, saws, drills, and other common framing and carpentry tools.

• Power Tools: Electric or pneumatic drills, saws, routers, and potentially specialized framing nailers or fastening tools.

• Branding Irons: Used to apply company or standard identification marks onto the poles.

• Tagging Machines: Equipment for manufacturing and applying aluminum tags for product identification.

• Specialized Machinery: Full-length and deep incisor machines for specific pole preparation tasks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Documentation Systems: Basic record-keeping tools, potentially digital or paper-based logs for tracking processed materials.

• Reporting Tools: May involve simple forms or digital input for daily production tallies and quality reports.

CRM & Automation:

• While direct CRM or advanced automation tools are unlikely to be used by the Framer 2, the role operates within a larger manufacturing and supply chain system that relies on these technologies for overall business management and efficiency. Understanding the importance of accurate input from the production floor is key.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on the physical tools and machinery required for wood product preparation in a manufacturing setting. Data input for reporting is likely manual and system-agnostic at this level.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: Stella-Jones emphasizes participation in the company safety program. This means prioritizing safe practices in all tasks, reporting hazards, and looking out for colleagues.

• Quality & Precision: Adhering to ANSI, ASTM, and Corporate standards is non-negotiable. The value is in producing materials that meet stringent specifications for their intended use.

• Productivity & Efficiency: Manufacturing roles demand consistent output. The value is in processing materials effectively and efficiently to meet production targets.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with fellow framers, supervisors, and other plant personnel is crucial for smooth operations and achieving collective goals.

• Reliability & Accountability: Being dependable, showing up on time, and taking responsibility for one's work and assigned tasks are core values.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-on and Direct: Collaboration on the production floor is typically direct and task-oriented, involving clear communication about workflow, material handling, and immediate production needs.

• Process-Oriented: Team members work together to ensure the entire framing process flows smoothly from inspection to preparation for treatment.

• Supportive: Team members are expected to assist each other, especially during busy periods or when specific skills are needed, contributing to a supportive environment focused on shared production goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely reflects a traditional manufacturing environment where safety, efficiency, and quality are paramount, supported by strong teamwork and accountability.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Physical Demands: The role requires significant physical stamina, including standing for long periods, lifting, and repetitive motions, which can be challenging for some.

• Quality Consistency: Maintaining a high level of quality and accuracy across all processed materials, especially under production pressure, can be demanding.

• Learning Curve: Mastering the operation of various tools and machinery, as well as understanding all quality standards, requires focused learning during the initial training period.

• Safety Vigilance: Consistently adhering to safety protocols in a potentially hazardous manufacturing environment requires constant awareness and commitment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become an expert in wood pole framing, treatment preparation, and related machinery operation.

• Cross-Training: Potential to learn other roles within the plant, such as operating different types of machinery, quality inspection, or basic maintenance.

• Career Advancement: A clear path exists to progress to more senior operator roles, lead hand positions, or supervisory roles within Stella-Jones' extensive network.

• Industry Knowledge: Gaining deep understanding of the utility and railroad infrastructure supply chain and the critical role of treated wood products.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents typical challenges of entry-level manufacturing positions but also offers a structured path for skill development and career growth within a stable industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Workflow: "Can you describe your understanding of how materials move through a production process like this, from arrival to readiness for the next stage?" (Focus on your ability to grasp sequential processes).

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine you're preparing a pole and notice a defect that might not be immediately obvious. What steps would you take?" (Assess your attention to detail and adherence to quality/safety protocols).

• Teamwork: "Describe a time you worked with a team to achieve a common goal. What was your role, and how did you contribute?" (Highlight collaboration and contribution to team success).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Industry Understanding: "What do you know about Stella-Jones and the products we manufacture?" (Show you've researched the company and understand its role in infrastructure).

• Safety Commitment: "How do you prioritize safety in a work environment?" (Emphasize your proactive approach to safety).

• Work Ethic: "What does it mean to you to be a reliable employee in a manufacturing setting?" (Focus on punctuality, accountability, and dedication).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to discuss specific examples from your resume that demonstrate relevant skills.

• For instance, if you have experience with tools, be ready to describe the types of tools and tasks you performed.

• If you have any experience in quality control or following detailed instructions, have a brief example ready.

• Focus on conveying your trainability, eagerness to learn, and commitment to quality and safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical understanding of manufacturing processes, a strong commitment to safety and quality, and a collaborative, reliable work ethic, rather than formal operational strategy or complex system knowledge.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Stella-Jones careers portal.

• Resume Enhancement: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience with hand tools, power tools, measuring, following technical instructions, manual labor, or working in a production/manufacturing environment. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Processed X units per shift," "Maintained a clean and organized workstation").

• Prepare for Practical Discussion: Be ready to discuss your understanding of quality inspection, adherence to standards (like ANSI/ASTM, if applicable from prior experience), and your commitment to workplace safety.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Stella-Jones' products, their role as an essential infrastructure supplier, and their commitment to safety and community. This will help you articulate your interest and fit during the interview.

• Practice Interview Questions: Review the suggested interview questions and prepare concise, example-driven answers that showcase your skills, work ethic, and enthusiasm for the role.

⚠️ 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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