Production Operator

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.