Manufacturing Associate

We are looking for a Manufacturing Associate, Machine Shop to join our manufacturing team at Bluefors in Syracuse, NY. In this entry-level role, you will support the production of precision components used in advanced cryogenic systems that enable breakthroughs in quantum technology, scientific research, and other cutting-edge industries. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on manufacturing work, has a strong mechanical aptitude, and wants to grow their technical skills within a collaborative, high-tech manufacturing environment. Interested? Keep reading!

Your responsibilities will include operating and maintaining a variety of machine shop equipment, including punch presses, grinders, drill presses, shears, cut-off wheels, and band saws to support manufacturing operations. You will perform basic mechanical operations such as deburring parts, checking threads with gauges, chasing threads, gluing assemblies, washing and staging parts, and maintaining production records. You will also stack raw materials and finished goods in designated storage areas, assist with routine machine maintenance including coolant and oil changes, and support ongoing technical development through training. In addition, you will maintain a clean and organized workspace while following all Bluefors safety standards, procedures, and manufacturing best practices.

We are looking for a candidate with a high school diploma or GED and preferably six months of related machine shop or metal fabrication experience. The ideal candidate will have the ability to safely use hand tools and measuring instruments, possess basic mechanical aptitude, and demonstrate a willingness to learn new manufacturing processes. Basic math skills, including working with fractions and decimals, are required. You should be dependable, detail-oriented, safety-conscious, and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

We also appreciate candidates who demonstrate a proactive attitude toward learning, continuous improvement, and teamwork. Previous experience in manufacturing or metalworking environments, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to producing quality work will help you stand out. Candidates who embrace Bluefors' workplace competencies—including attention to detail, dependability, adaptability, diversity, organizational effectiveness, and safety—will thrive in this role.

We offer you an interesting, challenging, and responsible position, along with the support of a highly skilled and growing organization. This is an excellent opportunity for your professional growth in a dynamic, enthusiastic, and collaborative team where we work together and support each other. We foster a multicultural work environment with room to grow, where you can use your potential and further develop your manufacturing and technical skills.

We offer a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k), long- and short-term disability, life insurance, training, tuition reimbursement, and Paid Time Off (PTO).

Location: Syracuse, NY

Pay Range: First Shift: $19.23-24.03/hr. (DOE)

Main Responsibilities include the following:

• Operate and maintain machine shop equipment including punch presses, grinders, drill presses, shears, cut-off wheels, and band saws

• Perform basic mechanical operations using hand tools and measuring equipment

• Deburr parts, check threads with gauges, chase threads, and glue assemblies

• Wash, stage, and organize parts for production

• Stack raw materials and finished goods within designated storage areas

• Maintain production records and documentation as required

• Assist with routine machine maintenance including coolant and oil changes

• Follow all Bluefors safety standards, policies, and procedures

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment

• Participate in ongoing technical training and skill development

• Support continuous improvement initiatives

• Perform additional duties as assigned

What We Expect from You

• High school diploma or GED required

• Six months of related machine shop or metal fabrication experience preferred

• Ability to safely use hand tools and measuring instruments

• Basic mechanical aptitude

• Basic math skills, including fractions and decimals

• Ability to read and follow safety rules, operating instructions, procedures, and training documents

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality

• Dependable with a strong work ethic

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Commitment to workplace safety and following established procedures

• Willingness to learn and continue developing technical skills

• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken

We Also Appreciate

• Previous manufacturing or metalworking experience

• Familiarity with machine shop equipment

• Strong organizational and time management skills

• Positive attitude and willingness to learn

• Technical or mechanical aptitude

• Ability to adapt in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

• Collaborative, team-oriented mindset

• Strong alignment with Bluefors workplace competencies, including safety, diversity, teamwork, and continuous learning

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, reach with hands and arms, and use hands and fingers for manufacturing and machine shop tasks. The employee is occasionally required to walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and communicate verbally. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

This position operates in a manufacturing environment and regularly works around moving mechanical equipment and machinery. Employees may occasionally be exposed to heat, cold, humidity, airborne particles, vibration, electrical hazards, and moderately loud noise. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times as applicable. Employees are expected to maintain a safe, clean, and organized work environment while following all established safety procedures.

This role does not offer sponsorship for work authorization.

Bluefors Cryocooler Technologies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of disability status, veteran status, or any other New York State or federally protected characteristic.