Warehouse Production Associate

Production AssociateLocation: Vernon, CA (On-Site)Department: ManufacturingReports To: Plant ManagerJob Type: Full-Time | Non-Exempt / HourlyAbout Hydrobuilder HoldingsHydrobuilder Holdings (HBH) exists to empower growers to thrive. As one of the largest providers of products, services and technology to the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) industry, we support cultivators across the spectrum — from large commercial facilities to independent growers — helping them improve yields, operate more efficiently and grow sustainably.Elevated, our commercial division, is a tech-enabled service platform supporting professional cultivators from build-out through harvest with Account Executives, Cultivation Advisors and AI-driven crop insights. Hydrobuilder.com, "The Growers Marketplace," serves smaller growers through a digital platform offering curated products and education. Our integrated AgTech program combines AI, sensor data and lab analytics to deliver actionable insights that improve cultivation performance.Overview of PositionThe Production Associate is a frontline manufacturing team member responsible for operating production equipment, maintaining quality standards, and supporting efficient throughput within HBH's Manufacturing division. This role is integral to producing the nutrient, substrate, and specialty agriculture products that serve commercial and independent growers across HBH's omnichannel platform. The Production Associate operates with discipline and attention to detail — executing SOPs precisely, flagging quality or safety concerns promptly, and supporting continuous improvement in a fast-paced production environment.Key ResponsibilitiesProduction OperationsOperate and monitor production machinery and equipment to ensure smooth, on-schedule operationFollow production schedules and instructions to meet daily and weekly output targetsAssist with non-machine production activities including re-bagging, liquid mixing, and manual assemblySupport routine maintenance and minor equipment repairs as directedAssist with cycle counts and inventory verification as neededQuality ControlFollow all production SOPs before, during, and after each run to ensure products meet quality standardsIdentify and immediately report defects, process deviations, or equipment issues to the Production Supervisor or Plant ManagerParticipate in quality checks and ensure batch documentation is complete and accurateSafety & ComplianceAdhere to all safety guidelines, protocols, and regulatory requirements to maintain a safe working environmentUse personal protective equipment (PPE) as required and follow all safety procedures without exceptionReport any safety hazards, incidents, or near-misses promptly to the Production SupervisorMaintain awareness of GMP, OSHA, and facility-specific compliance standardsProcess ImprovementAssist in identifying and communicating opportunities to enhance production efficiency and reduce wasteParticipate in training and development programs to stay current on best practices and new techniquesSupport implementation of process changes as directed by Production Supervisor or Plant ManagerTeam Collaboration & CommunicationCollaborate with team members to maintain smooth workflow and efficient production handoffsCommunicate production status, equipment concerns, and quality observations clearly to supervisors and colleaguesContribute to a respectful, safe, and productive team environmentKey Performance Indicators (KPIs)Production target attainment ? 95% of scheduled daily outputQuality defect / rework rate: 0 defects per production batchSOP compliance: 100% adherence during pre-, mid-, and post-production checksSafety incidents: 0 preventable incidents; near-misses reported within same shiftUnplanned equipment downtime attributed to operator error: 0 occurrences per quarterAttendance and punctuality: ? 98% adherence to scheduled hoursKey ChallengesMaintaining consistent product quality and SOP adherence while operating at pace in a high-volume production environmentQuickly identifying and escalating equipment malfunctions or quality deviations before they affect downstream outputBalancing speed, safety, and accuracy simultaneously — particularly during high-demand production runsAdapting efficiently to changes in production schedules, formulations, or equipment setups with minimal disruptionSupporting a culture of continuous improvement while executing repetitive production tasks with sustained precisionJob Knowledge, Skills & ExperienceHigh school diploma or equivalent required; technical or vocational training is a plusPrior experience in a manufacturing, production, or warehouse environment preferredBasic mechanical aptitude and ability to safely operate production machineryWorking knowledge of quality control processes, GMP principles, and safety regulationsStrong attention to detail and the ability to identify process deviations quicklyAbility to lift up to 50 lbs; comfortable standing for extended periods in an active production facilityReliable, punctual, and able to work effectively within a team environmentCompensationHourly Rate: Commensurate with experience; competitive with local market ratesOvertime eligibility per applicable labor lawsPerformance-based incentivesBenefitsComprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance401(k) plan with company matchPaid time off and holidaysProfessional development and training opportunitiesFlexible work schedule and remote work options