Value-Add Utility - 1st Shift

Value-Add Utility
About Lodge Cast Iron

We got our start over 125 years ago when Joseph Lodge founded the Blacklock Foundry in South Pittsburg, TN. His scrappy, hardworking spirit continues to lead us today. As a team, we believe cast iron is for everyone. We're dedicated to manufacturing American-made cookware that we're proud to use in our very own homes and excited to bring to kitchens, backyards, and campfires around the world. Day in and day out, we work together to stay safe, have fun, and be better than we were the day before.
What fires us up?

By now, you may have caught on to the fact that we're serious about spreading the joys of cast iron. And while we're always on the lookout for ways to innovate, we believe in the adage: If it ain't broke, don't fix it. That's why we stand by a simple recipe of just iron and oil (no forever chemicals, since forever!). It's also why we're passionate about keeping our campus in our hometown of South Pittsburg, Tennessee, providing great jobs to our community. As we bring our cookware to the next generation of cast iron chefs, we're looking for people to help us stay true to our roots every step of the way. Does that sound like something you can get behind?
A day in the life of a Value-Add Utility Team Member

If you enjoy hands-on work and take pride in quality craftsmanship, this could be the role for you. Our Value-Add Utility Team Members support multiple stages of production operations by preparing cast iron cookware for customization, OEM work, assembly, and packaging. From finishing and seasoning to final packaging, you'll help ensure our products meet the quality standards customers expect from Lodge Cast Iron.

This role is ideal for someone who works well in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, pays close attention to detail, and enjoys being part of a collaborative team.
Responsibilities

• Support finishing operations by inspecting, sorting, grinding, polishing, and staging castings for production
• Evaluate product quality and identify first quality, second quality, or scrap materials
• Operate finishing equipment including grinders, deburring tools, and polishing equipment
• Assist with seasoning operations including oil application and oven-curing processes
• Monitor product quality, oven timing, and material handling throughout production
• Drill castings and complete handle assembly work using specialized fixtures and tools
• Polish brass and stainless-steel components as needed
• Package finished goods according to customer and retail specifications
• Conduct final quality inspections to ensure products meet Lodge standards
• Follow labeling, stacking, and palletizing procedures for shipment readiness
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment while following safety and 5L guidelines
• Collaborate with team members and leadership to support production goals and continuous improvement efforts
• Perform all other duties as assigned

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical labor in a manufacturing environment
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently
• Ability to work safely and effectively in a team-based environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in finishing, assembly, packaging, or manufacturing operations preferred
• Experience in cast iron, cookware, or related manufacturing environments preferred
• Basic understanding of quality inspection standards and manufacturing processes

Employee Benefits

• Competitive Pay
• Generous PTO and Sick Pay
• Insurance Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription, Life, and Short-Term Disability)
• On-Site Clinic and Fitness Center
• 401K Match and Deferred Profit Sharing Program
• Quarterly Profit Sharing
• Employee Assistance Program
• Scholarship Opportunity and Tuition Reimbursement
• $150 Boot Allowance
• Employee Discount at Lodge Factory Store and Big Bad Breakfast
• Safety, Holiday, and Celebration Dinners

Equal Opportunity Employer

Lodge Manufacturing does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age, political affiliation or