Production Operator
Posted Updated
Production Operator
Department: Production / Operations
Reports To: Production Supervisor / Team Lead
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Job Summary
The Production Operator supports multiple functional areas across the shop floor, with a primary focus on assembly, fabrication, and shipping & receiving. This role provides hands-on assistance where needed to maintain workflow, ensure quality, and keep production running efficiently. The ideal candidate is adaptable, mechanically inclined, and comfortable moving between departments throughout the day.
Starting Pay: $18+/hour, based on experience.
Key Responsibilities
Assembly Support
- Assist with assembling products, components, or sub-assemblies following work instructions.
- Use basic hand tools, power tools, and measuring devices.
- Prepare parts, hardware, and workstations for upcoming jobs.
- Ensure assembled items meet quality and accuracy standards.
Fabrication Support
- Support fabrication processes such as cutting, prepping materials, simple machine operation, or staging product.
- Load/unload materials on fabrication equipment as trained.
- Perform basic finishing tasks (deburring, cleaning, labeling parts, etc.).
- Communicate material or tooling needs to leads or supervisors.
Shipping & Receiving Support
- Assist with loading/unloading trucks and inspecting incoming materials.
- Help with picking, packing, palletizing, crating, and staging outgoing orders.
- Apply labels, documentation, and packaging materials according to shipping requirements.
- Move materials using carts, pallet jacks, or other approved equipment.
Cross-Department Flexibility
- Float between assembly, fabrication, warehouse, and other areas depending on workload.
- Provide coverage for breaks, gaps, or increased volume in any of the above departments.
- Follow priorities set by production leads or supervisors.
Quality & Safety
- Inspect parts, assemblies, and materials for defects or inaccuracies.
- Report any quality issues, equipment problems, or unsafe conditions immediately.
- Maintain clean, organized work areas consistent with 5S and company housekeeping expectations.
- Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and equipment operating guidelines.
Material Handling
- Move raw materials, WIP, and finished goods between departments.
- Assist with inventory counts, labeling, and stock rotation as needed.
- Keep workstations supplied with parts and materials to avoid downtime.
Documentation & Communication
- Complete simple logs, labels, checklists, or tracking forms accurately.
- Communicate workflow updates, shortages, or issues to team leads.
Qualifications
Required:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Ability to lift 40–50 lbs frequently.
- Strong attendance, reliability, and work ethic.
- Willingness to learn multiple processes across departments.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
Preferred:
- Experience in assembly, fabrication, or shipping & receiving.
- Familiarity with hand/power tools and measuring devices.
- Material handling experience (pallet jacks, carts, etc.).
Skills & Competencies
- Mechanical Aptitude: Able to learn equipment and tools quickly.
- Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy in assembly, fabrication, and packaging tasks.
- Adaptability: Comfortable shifting tasks based on production needs.
- Teamwork: Works effectively with all departments.
- Safety Minded: Follows procedures and maintains safe work habits.
Work Environment
- Shop/manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, machinery, and varying temperatures.
- Requires standing, bending, lifting, and repetitive tasks for extended periods.