Production Operator

Department: Production / Operations

Reports To: Production Supervisor / Team Lead

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

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.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

- 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.

- Complete simple logs, labels, checklists, or tracking forms accurately.

- Communicate workflow updates, shortages, or issues to team leads.

- 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.

- Experience in assembly, fabrication, or shipping & receiving.

- Familiarity with hand/power tools and measuring devices.

- Material handling experience (pallet jacks, carts, etc.).

- 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.

- Shop/manufacturing environment with exposure to noise, machinery, and varying temperatures.

- Requires standing, bending, lifting, and repetitive tasks for extended periods.