Manufacturing Associate

Primary Purpose Summary

 The Manufacturing Associate is an entry-level position designed for individuals with no prior manufacturing experience. This role supports basic production activities, material handling, and housekeeping while learning foundational skills needed to progress into the Level 1 Machine Operator role after meeting the required experience threshold.

The Manufacturing Associate helps maintain safe work areas, supports equipment operators, performs simple inspections, and follows all plant policies and certifications, including ISO, SQF, and BRC requirements.

Shift Schedule This role operates on 12-hour shifts, either:
• Night Shift: 6:45 PM to 7:00 AM on a 2-2-3 rotation
• Day Shift: 6:45 AM to 7:00 PM on a 2-2-3 rotation

• Follow all company policies, safety rules, and standard procedures
• Train and prepare for the Machine Operator Level 1 eligibility (6 month requirement)
• Arrive 15 minutes before shift start for handoff communication
• Assist with staging and organizing materials, packaging, and supplies
• Support machine operators by loading materials, preparing boxes, and keeping work areas stocked
• Perform basic visual inspections of parts using provided criteria
• Identify and remove visibly defective products
• Maintain cleanliness around machines and work areas throughout the shift
• Complete simple documentation such as counts, labels, and move tickets
• Create, label, and number boxes; verify labels match product specifications
• Communicate material shortages, quality concerns, or safety issues
  promptly
•  Provide break relief for basic non-machine tasks as trained
• Support Cell Leads and Operators with general production needs
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• No manufacturing experience required — full training provided
•  Excellent attendance record in previous employment
• Stable work history demonstrating reliability and commitment
• High school diploma or GED
• Ability to read, count, and write accurately
•  Ability to stand for 12-hour shifts and lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to follow instructions and work safely
• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn
• Ability to distinguish colors (for visual inspections and labeling)
• Preferred:
  •  Experience in fast-paced environments such as retail, warehouse, food
    service, or general labor
  • Basic mechanical curiosity or interest in learning how equipment works

Skills/Abilities

• Attention to detail
• Strong communication skills
• Team-oriented mindset
• Safety awareness
• Eagerness to learn and develop toward Level 1 competency