Shop Laborer I

Shop Laborer I
Location: Richland, WA
Company: Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, Inc.
Salary: $18 – $20 DOE
About Columbia Energy
Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, headquartered in Richland, WA, is a well-established small business with over 30 years of experience supporting the nuclear, defense, energy, and hazardous waste industries. Originally founded to support nuclear cleanup efforts at Hanford, the company has grown into a trusted provider of engineering, design, fabrication, instrumentation and controls, and other specialized services.
We are known for delivering high-quality, safety-focused solutions to both federal and commercial clients. Our team values technical precision, collaboration, and integrity, and we take pride in maintaining a strong safety culture across all operations.
Why Join Columbia Energy?
At Columbia Energy, employees are valued contributors to the success of the organization. We foster a collaborative, team-oriented environment where reliability, initiative, and craftsmanship matter. This role offers steady, full-time employment with opportunities to develop hands-on skills in a growing fabrication and production environment.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Shop Laborer I to support production and fabrication operations at our Richland, WA facility. This role assists with general shop activities, material preparation, and maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment. The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, detail-oriented, dependable, and eager to learn in a fast-paced shop setting.
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
Perform all duties safely and professionally in accordance with company policies and procedures
Assist with assembly of basic mechanical equipment, structural components, and piping systems
Prepare materials by removing burrs, sharp edges, rust, or scale
Cut, grind, sand, or blast fabricated parts as part of material preparation and finishing
Identify and report unsafe conditions or malfunctioning equipment
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace
Load and unload trucks using forklifts and other equipment as needed
Operate shop tools and machinery safely (e.g., saws, torches, grinders, drills)
Assist with fitting and fabrication of metal products under supervision
Perform basic maintenance on assigned tools and equipment
Deliver materials, tools, or fabricated items between shop and field locations as needed
Perform other job-related duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening (Columbia Energy maintains a drug- and alcohol-free workplace)
Ability to read, write, and follow verbal and written instructions
Ability to safely operate hand tools, machinery, and vehicles
Willingness to travel to field sites occasionally
Strong math and measurement skills (fractions, decimals, basic geometry)
Mechanical aptitude and problem-solving ability
Preferred Qualifications
Previous experience in a fabrication, warehouse, or construction environment
Familiarity with basic mechanical assembly or metalworking processes
Forklift certification or willingness to obtain certification
Key Success Attributes
Strong attention to detail and accuracy
Positive attitude and team-oriented mindset
Reliable, consistent, and motivated to learn
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Maintains composure and productivity in a fast-paced environment
Physical Requirements
Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting
Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs
Regular use of hands and arms to handle tools, materials, and equipment
Comfortable working at heights and in varying shop environments (hot, cold, damp)
Must wear required PPE, including hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, and safety-toed boots
Working Conditions
Primarily based in a shop and fabrication environment
Fast-paced, deadline-driven work with a strong focus on safety and quality
Occasional travel to project or vendor sites may be required
Personal protective equipment (PPE) required in designated areas
Compensation & Benefits
This is a full-time, non-exempt position offering competitive hourly pay based on experience.
Eligible employees may participate in the company’s benefit programs in accordance with plan terms and eligibility requirements.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Columbia Energy & Environmental Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Employment type
Full-Time Non-Exempt - Introductory Period

Work arrangement
No