Shop Laborer/Helper/Grinder

Position Overview

JGM is seeking a Shop Laborer / Helper who will play a hands-on role supporting daily fabrication shop operations. This position plays a key role in material movement, surface preparation (including sandblasting), and general shop support.

This position is ideal for individuals looking to transition into a skilled trade career. Whether you are coming from another industry or looking to build a long-term path in construction and manufacturing, this role provides exposure to welding, fitting, fabrication, and equipment operation within a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

At JGM, many of our skilled craftsmen came from roles as farm workers, general laborers, landscapers and started roles just like this—learning the business from the ground up.

What You’ll Do

Assist with material handling using overhead cranes, forklifts, and other equipment

Support surface preparation, including heavy grinding, and sandblasting steel components for coating and finishing

Prepare and finish steel surfaces. You will operate abrasive blasting equipment to remove rust, scale, and old coatings, ensuring surfaces meet specifications

Clean and prepare materials for fabrication, welding, and painting

Maintain shop organization, including staging materials and keeping work areas clean and safe

Assist skilled trades (welders, fitters, operators) with daily tasks and setup

Learn to read basic drawings and understand material flow in a fabrication environment

Follow all safety procedures and PPE requirements in a heavy industrial setting

Support loading/unloading of trucks and movement of structural steel

What We’re Looking For

Strong work ethic and willingness to work in a physically demanding environment

Someone who is not afraid to do the grinding and prepping of material as a main part of their role.

Interest in learning a skilled trade (welding, fabrication, fitting, or equipment operation)

Ability to follow directions and work as part of a team

Reliable attendance and commitment to early start times

Comfortable working in a shop environment (dust, noise, heavy materials)

Work Schedule

Monday – Friday

Typical start time: 5:00 AM – 3:30 PM

Overtime

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

Ability to lift and/or move up to 100 pounds safely

Stand, walk, reach, bend, and use hands for extended periods

Work in an industrial shop environment with exposure to noise, dust, fumes, and vibration

Required use of PPE, including respirators, gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and steel-toe footwear

Ability to safely operate equipment and machinery when properly trained

JGM offers a competitive wage and benefits package:

Benefits and Perks  

Competitive hourly pay (Starting at $20-$23 depending on related experience)

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

PTO & Paid Holidays

401(k) with company match

Life Insurance

Short- & Long-Term Disability

Employee Assistance Program

Generous employee referral program

Training and continuing education

Additional perks for Coatesville and Sinking Spring shop employees

Daily snack & drink allowance

Annual safety boot allowance (on-site truck visit)

Annual prescription safety glasses program

Lunch provided every other Friday

Who Thrives Here 

Craftsmen who want more than a job—a career building America

Team players who want to grow skills, earnings, and leadership

This job description is subject to change based on the needs of the business and is not all-inclusive.

JGM is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.