Bandsaw Operator
Valar Atomics · Torrance, California, United States
About Valar Atomics
At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable—unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.
The Team
The Manufacturing organization transforms engineering designs into high-quality products through precision manufacturing, disciplined execution, and continuous improvement. The team develops scalable production capabilities that support the commercialization of advanced nuclear technology.
The Role
We are seeking a skilled Bandsaw Operator to support our manufacturing operations. The Bandsaw Operator will be responsible for safely and accurately cutting metal, graphite, and other materials to specified dimensions using industrial bandsaw equipment. The ideal candidate has hands-on machine shop experience, strong attention to detail, and the ability to read drawings and work to tight dimensional requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate horizontal and/or vertical bandsaws to cut raw materials to specified lengths and dimensions.
- Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, drawings, and production specifications.
- Select appropriate blades, speeds, feeds, and cutting parameters based on material and job requirements.
- Measure and verify cut parts using tape measures, calipers, micrometers, and other precision measuring tools.
- Properly set up, load, secure, and position material prior to cutting.
- Perform routine machine adjustments, blade changes, and basic preventative maintenance.
- Inspect finished cuts for accuracy, quality, burrs, and other defects.
- Maintain accurate production and inspection records.
- Follow established safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized work area.
- Identify material or equipment issues and communicate them to supervisors or manufacturing personnel.
- Support other machine shop and production activities as needed.
Basic Qualifications
- 1+ years of experience operating bandsaws or similar industrial cutting equipment.
- Manufacturing, machine shop, aerospace, or metal fabrication experience preferred.
- Ability to read and understand basic engineering drawings and work instructions.
- Experience using precision measuring tools such as calipers and micrometers.
- Strong understanding of safe material handling and machine operation.
- Ability to work independently while maintaining production schedules and quality standards.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate work.
- Ability to lift and move materials safely within the requirements of the position.
Preferred Skills and Experience
- Experience cutting aluminum, stainless steel, steel, titanium, Inconel, graphite, or other specialty materials.
- Experience working in a high-precision aerospace, nuclear, defense, or advanced manufacturing environment.
- Familiarity with different bandsaw blade types, tooth configurations, and cutting parameters.
- Experience with Lean Manufacturing, 5S, or continuous improvement practices.
- Previous experience working from engineering drawings and tight dimensional tolerances.
What We Offer
- Competitive base salary
- Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company
- Comprehensive medical benefits
- Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite
- Generous PPE stipend
- High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy
- Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement
- Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders
- The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
Salary$25—$30 USD