Production Associate

Job Title:
Production Associate

Job Description

The Production Associate supports the manufacturing of large fiberglass tubes and related components in a high-volume industrial facility. This role involves setting up and operating machines, working with composites and fiberglass, using a variety of measurement tools, and following detailed instructions and specifications. The position offers exposure to multiple production areas, opportunities for cross-training, and the chance to develop strong technical and mechanical skills in a close-knit, supportive environment.

Responsibilities

• Set up and operate machines to shape composites and produce large fiberglass tubes according to production requirements.

• Read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, and work instructions to select, position, and secure machinery and materials correctly.

• Adjust machine settings and parameters to complete tasks accurately and within defined specifications.

• Follow established safety procedures and standard operating procedures (SOPs) throughout all production activities.

• Use math skills to perform measurements, conversions, and calculations needed for precise production tasks.

• Operate and use calipers, tape measures, and other measurement tools to verify dimensions and quality.

• Work in the Gear Box area using a variety of measurement tools to ensure components meet required tolerances.

• Support molding operations, including working with plastics and sheet fiberglass, and clean with acetone as required while following safety guidelines.

• Fill molds and work independently in the Element area, including blowing out dust from circular gears and performing repetitive tasks with consistency.

• Perform Cut & Bond activities, including using a computer to scan and enter data, tracking and meeting daily production goals (such as 20 parts per day), and partnering with a coworker to use a circular saw to cut material.

• Use a tape measure to confirm cut accuracy and adjust machine settings in the Cut & Bond area as needed.

• Assist in packaging operations, safely handling and packaging items weighing up to 40 pounds.

• Operate various shop equipment such as saws, grinders, and other power tools as part of daily production tasks.

• Perform basic inspection of parts and components using hand tools and measurement devices to ensure quality standards are met.

• Rely on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform job functions while maintaining consistent output and quality.

• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including cleaning tools and equipment after use as required.

• Collaborate with team members and communicate effectively with supervisors regarding production status, issues, and improvements.

• Participate in cross-training across multiple production areas and apply new skills learned on the job.

Essential Skills

• High school diploma or GED.

• Minimum 6+ months of machine operator experience in a production or manufacturing environment.

• Knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures in manufacturing, including adherence to safety rules and SOPs.

• Ability to read a tape measure down to 1/32 of an inch accurately.

• Ability to convert fractions to decimals, or willingness and ability to learn how to do so.

• Ability to stand for 8 or more hours per day while performing production tasks.

• Ability to safely lift and handle items up to 40 pounds as part of packaging and material handling.

• Basic proficiency with hand tools, power tools, and machine operation in a shop environment.

• Comfort working with composites, fiberglass, and industrial cleaning agents (such as acetone) while following safety procedures.

• Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions and work within pre-established guidelines.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• 6+ months of experience using calipers, micrometers, or other precision measurement tools.

• 6+ months of experience working with composites in a manufacturing or fabrication setting.

• 6+ months of molding experience, particularly in plastics or fiberglass molding.

• 6+ months of experience performing machine setup, including adjusting settings and preparing equipment for production.

• 6+ months of experience working with mills, lathes, winders, or similar machining equipment.

• Experience reading and interpreting blueprints and diagrams in an industrial environment.

• Experience with computer use to scan and enter production data.

• Experience in machine shop work, including saw operation, grinding, and inspection, is beneficial.

• Ability to work independently and…