Mechanical Engineer

Manufacturing Production Associate — California, United States Company Description

Next Code Placement specializes in connecting skilled professionals with organizations across the technology, healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, and related industries. The company provides tailored career guidance and job-search support designed to align candidates’ skills and career goals with relevant opportunities. Next Code Placement focuses on supporting candidates throughout their career journey by providing resources, professional guidance, and career-development services.

Role Description

The Manufacturing Production Associate is a full-time, on-site position based in Texas, United States. The Production Associate will support daily manufacturing operations, including assembling, operating, and monitoring production equipment while ensuring compliance with safety requirements, quality standards, and production schedules.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and operate machinery and production lines.
• Assemble and package products according to work instructions and specifications.
• Perform in-process quality checks and inspections.
• Support inventory handling, material movement, line changeovers, routine equipment cleaning, and basic maintenance.
• Identify and help resolve issues affecting product quality, workplace safety, equipment performance, or production timelines.
• Communicate regularly with team leads, supervisors, quality, maintenance, and warehouse teams to ensure quality and timely production output.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, Engineering, or a related field is a plus.
• Hands-on experience in manufacturing, production, assembly, or a closely related industrial role.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes, assembly operations, and production workflows.
• Ability to read and follow work instructions, SOPs, blueprints, and basic engineering drawings.
• Familiarity with quality inspection and measuring tools, including calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
• Knowledge of workplace safety practices, OSHA standards, and the use of PPE.
• Experience with Lean manufacturing, 5S, or continuous improvement practices is an advantage.
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office (Excel) and ERP/MES systems for production tracking.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to maintain consistent quality and productivity.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work as part of a team and follow supervisor instructions.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and perform repetitive tasks as required.
• Ability to work on-site in Texas, including shift work, overtime, or weekends as required.

Recent Graduates / Entry-Level Candidates

Qualified recent graduates may be considered for suitable entry-level production opportunities if they have:

A high school diploma, technical certificate, Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree in Manufacturing, Industrial, Mechanical, or a related field.

Relevant internship, co-op, vocational training, academic project, or hands-on manufacturing experience.

An understanding of basic manufacturing and safety fundamentals.

A strong willingness to learn, reliability, teamwork, and attention to detail.

Familiarity with production equipment, quality tools, or Lean practices is an advantage.

Preferred Certifications

OSHA 10/30, Lean Six Sigma Yellow/Green Belt, forklift/powered industrial truck certification, Certified Production Technician (CPT), or other relevant manufacturing certifications are a plus.

Hiring decisions are made by the respective employer based on its own requirements and selection process.