Manufacturing Associate

General Production Worker

This role offers the opportunity to work in a metal manufacturing environment across several production areas, including paint line, laser operation, metal finishing, and brake press operation. You will support the production of metal components by operating machinery, preparing and finishing parts, and maintaining a steady workflow on the shop floor. The position is well suited for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, are comfortable in a fast-paced setting, and are willing to learn new equipment and processes.

Responsibilities

• Operate fiber laser cutting machines to cut metal components according to specifications, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
• Monitor laser machine performance, load and unload materials, and adjust settings as needed under supervision.
• Set up and operate press brake machines to bend and shape metal components based on blueprints and work instructions.
• Read and interpret blueprints or production drawings to ensure correct dimensions and tolerances for metal parts.
• Work in the paint booth to prepare, paint, and powder coat metal products at a consistent pace of approximately one metal bar per minute.
• Perform paint preparation tasks such as cleaning, masking, and staging parts prior to painting or powder coating.
• Apply powder coating and paint finishes to metal products while following quality standards and safety procedures.
• Collaborate closely with the paint supervisor and other team members to coordinate workflow and maintain production schedules.
• Handle general production duties such as assembly, general labor, and machine operating tasks as assigned.
• Assist with shipping and related production support activities to ensure finished products are properly prepared for delivery.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including cleaning equipment and work surfaces in accordance with shop and cleanroom-adjacent standards where applicable.
• Follow all safety guidelines, including the use of required personal protective equipment such as sleeves, safety glasses, and steel-toe footwear.
• Work on your feet throughout the entire shift, moving between stations and handling materials as needed.
• Consistently meet productivity expectations and contribute to achieving production targets.
• Work overtime as needed, including frequent Friday overtime, to support high production demands.

Essential Skills

• Experience in laser machining or laser operation, particularly with metal cutting equipment.
• Hands-on experience in a paint booth environment, including painting and powder coating metal products.
• Machine operation experience in a manufacturing or production setting.
• Ability to set up and operate press brake machines to bend and form metal components.
• Familiarity with general production, assembly, and general labor tasks in a shop environment.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints or production drawings.
• Comfort working on your feet for the entire shift and handling physical tasks in a manufacturing setting.
• Willingness and ability to work frequent overtime, including Fridays.
• Ability to successfully complete a 4-panel drug test and a 7-year background check in accordance with company policy.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Powder coating experience on metal products, including setup and application, is a strong plus.
• Prior experience with CNC equipment or automated machinery in a production environment.
• Experience with paint preparation, paint prep cleaning, and finishing processes.
• Background in shipping or logistics support within a manufacturing facility.
• Prior exposure to cleanroom or cleanroom-adjacent environments is beneficial.
• Willingness to learn new machines and processes, with an openness to cross-training across multiple production areas.
• Strong work ethic and reliability, with a focus on quality and safety.
• Ability to work effectively with supervisors and teammates in a fast-paced production environment.

Why Work Here?

You will join a growing manufacturing operation that invests in its workforce by offering training opportunities and the chance to develop new technical skills across multiple production areas. The company recently transitioned to its own benefits program, demonstrating a commitment to supporting employees over the long term. You can take advantage of reimbursement for steel-toe footwear and safety glasses, helping to offset the cost of required protective gear. The environment rewards hard work with steady hours, frequent overtime opportunities, and a clear path to build hands-on experience with advanced equipment such as fiber lasers and press brakes.

Work Environment

This is a metal manufacturing shop environment that is not climate controlled, and temperatures can become warmer during the summer months, especially when working directly with machines. Production areas include laser cutting stations, paint and powder coating booths, brake press machines, and general assembly and shipping zones. Team members spend the entire shift on their feet, moving between workstations and handling metal components. The standard schedule is Monday through Thursday, with a day shift from 5:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and a second shift from 3:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., and overtime is frequently scheduled on Fridays, resulting in approximately 50-hour workweeks. A shift premium is available for eligible shifts. Employees must follow safety protocols and wear appropriate protective equipment, including safety glasses and steel-toe footwear, and will receive sleeves and other safety protection when working in the paint booth or similar areas.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chatfield, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $21.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)