Production Associate

Entry-Level Production Associate

As an Entry-Level Production Associate, you will play a key role in the sheet metal fabrication process, working alongside experienced team members to learn and perform a variety of production tasks. This position offers a hands-on introduction to manufacturing in a fast-paced environment, where you will support the setup and operation of fabrication equipment, handle materials, and help ensure products meet quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the setup and operation of sheet metal fabrication machinery, including shears, press brakes, and laser cutters.
• Load and unload materials onto machines, ensuring proper alignment and positioning for safe and efficient operation.
• Perform basic quality checks to confirm that products meet established specifications and standards.
• Follow safety protocols at all times and maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work area.
• Collaborate with team members to achieve production goals and meet daily and weekly deadlines.
• Learn and apply various sheet metal fabrication techniques and processes under the guidance of experienced staff.
• Report any equipment malfunctions, safety issues, or process concerns promptly to supervisors.
• Support general production activities such as packaging, stacking, sweeping, cleaning, grinding, and material handling.
• Use hand tools, power tools, grinders, and tape measures as required for fabrication and general labor tasks.
• Assist with loading, packing, and moving sheet metal components and other materials throughout the production area.

Essential Skills

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Ability to follow instructions accurately and work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Basic math skills and the ability to read and interpret measurements, including using a tape measure.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new tasks, tools, and fabrication technologies.
• Physical ability to lift and move materials up to 50 lbs as required by production activities.
• Comfort working in a general production or labor environment with tasks such as material handling, loading, and packaging.
• Ability to use basic hand tools, power tools, and grinders safely and correctly.
• Reliability and punctuality to support consistent production workflows and schedules.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Previous experience in a manufacturing or production environment is a plus, but not required.
• Basic knowledge of sheet metal fabrication processes and equipment is beneficial.
• Experience with forklifts, material handling, and general labor tasks such as sweeping, cleaning, stacking, and packing is an advantage.
• Familiarity with metal shop tools and equipment, including grinders, shears, press brakes, and laser cutters, is helpful.
• Comfort working with sheet metal and related fabrication tasks in a fast-paced setting.

Why Work Here?

You will join a growing manufacturing environment that values learning, hands-on experience, and clear paths for advancement. As you develop your skills in sheet metal fabrication, you can progress into higher-level roles such as fabricator or welder, with increasing responsibility and earning potential. The culture emphasizes teamwork, safety, and continuous improvement, offering you the chance to build a long-term career in a skilled trade while working with supportive colleagues who invest in your development.

Work Environment

This role is based in a metal shop located in Oakland, where you will work around sheet metal fabrication machinery such as shears, press brakes, laser cutters, grinders, and other power and hand tools. The environment is fast-paced and production-focused, with regular material handling, loading, and general labor tasks. You will spend most of your time on your feet, moving materials and operating equipment in an industrial setting that requires adherence to safety procedures and the use of appropriate work attire suitable for a metal fabrication shop.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Oakland, CA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $19.00 - $19.00/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 Oakland, CA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 27, 2026.