General Labor

General Production Associate 1st Shift

This 1st shift production role focuses on safely processing and recycling plastic drums and containers. You use hand and power tools to dismantle metal cages, remove and transfer chemicals for recycling, and prepare containers for further processing. You may also work on a conveyor-based cleaning system and perform leak tests to ensure product quality. Over time, you can cross-train into areas such as assembly, warehouse operations, machine operation, and forklift operation, based on your preferences.

Responsibilities

• Use hand and power tools to dismantle metal cages surrounding plastic drums and containers.
• Carefully empty liquid chemicals from plastic drums into designated containers for recycling, following safety and handling procedures.
• Use scrapers and other tools to remove hardened chemicals from containers when necessary.
• Remove labels and residue from containers to prepare them for recycling.
• Cut plastic containers down to specified sizes for recycling and further processing.
• Move plastic containers onto a conveyor system for automated cleaning.
• Operate computer-controlled equipment that runs containers through a cleaning process.
• Perform submersion tests on cleaned containers to verify there are no leaks and ensure quality standards are met.
• Follow production schedules and meet daily output and quality targets.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including general labor tasks such as power washing, washing, sandblasting, and grinding as needed.
• Adhere to all safety guidelines, including proper use of tools, equipment, and personal protective gear.
• Work overtime as required to support production demands.
• Participate in cross-training opportunities in assembly, warehouse operations, and machine operation based on individual interest.
• Once hired on permanently, complete forklift training if desired and operate forklifts safely in accordance with company procedures.

Essential Skills

• At least 6 months of general production experience or 6 months of manual labor experience.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds repeatedly throughout the shift.
• Ability and willingness to work overtime as needed.
• Comfort using hand tools and basic power tools in a production environment.
• Ability to perform physical, hands-on work in hot and wet conditions.
• Basic ability to follow written and verbal instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Attention to detail when handling chemicals, removing labels, and performing leak tests.
• Commitment to working safely and following safety protocols at all times.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience in general labor tasks such as power washing, washing, sandblasting, or grinding.
• Experience in production, warehouse operations, or assembly environments.
• Interest in learning machine operation and computer-controlled cleaning systems.
• Willingness to cross-train and move between production, assembly, warehouse, and machine operation roles based on preference.
• Interest in obtaining forklift training and operating forklifts once hired permanently.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

Why Work Here?

You join a production environment that values opportunity and growth, offering good benefits and a willingness to give motivated individuals a chance to prove themselves. The culture supports cross-training and movement across different departments, allowing you to shape your own career path based on your interests. Flexible scheduling practices, such as starting earlier on hot days, help support comfort and work-life balance while maintaining productivity.

Work Environment

This role is based in a production facility in Hastings that is typically hot and wet, especially during warmer seasons. You work on 1st shift and may start earlier on particularly hot days to finish earlier, helping manage heat exposure. The environment involves hands-on work with plastic drums and containers, metal cages, and recycling processes, using hand tools, power tools, conveyor systems, and computer-operated cleaning equipment. You may also work around power washing, washing, sandblasting, and grinding operations, as well as warehouse and assembly areas. The setting is active and physically demanding, with a strong emphasis on safety procedures and appropriate protective gear.

Job Type & Location

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

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Hastings, MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 21, 2026.