Production Associate III - JI Trainer

Job Description Overview: Production Associate III

Operates, sets up, and monitors advanced production equipment. This role requires strong technical skills and knowledge of production processes, work instructions, quality standards, and safety requirements. The associate performs complex tasks, troubleshoots routine equipment or process issues, and supports consistent quality and production flow.

Working Environment and Physical Demands

Fast-paced manufacturing environment requiring prolonged standing, walking, bending, and stooping. Must regularly lift, push, pull, or move up to 35 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds with assistance. Requires sufficient manual dexterity, coordination, hearing, and vision, with or without correction, to safely operate equipment, communicate, and read production materials. Required PPE includes safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, and hearing protection.

FLSA Status

This is a full-time position requiring consistent, dependable attendance. This position is non-exempt from overtime.

ADVANCED EQUIPMENT OPERATION

• Operate advanced manufacturing equipment, including saws, joiners, CNC machines, and other specialized machinery, following work instructions, specifications, and safety procedures.
• Process production orders using FIFO and maintain established productivity, throughput, and cycle-time expectations.
• Perform pre-operation inspections and monitor equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation.
  
  

EQUIPMENT TROUBLESHOOTING

• Perform machine adjustments and minor troubleshooting to maintain equipment performance, product quality, and production efficiency while minimizing downtime.
• Identify and address equipment issues, defects, dimensional inconsistencies, material shortages, and other production concerns; escalate to the Lead or Supervisor as needed.
  
  

SAFETY, QUALITY, AND PRODUCTION

• Follow all Company EH&S policies, OSHA requirements, lockout/tagout procedures, machine-specific safety requirements, and established safe work practices.
• Maintain consistent product quality, production flow, and established productivity standards.
• Maintain clean, organized, and properly stocked work areas in accordance with 5S and Lean Manufacturing standards.
  
  

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

• Support opportunities to improve safety, quality, efficiency, productivity, and overall production processes.
• Cross-train across departments, machines, and production areas to support operational flexibility and continuous production flow.
  
  

Additional Tasks And Responsibilities

• Participate in training, team meetings, and continuous improvement initiatives while collaborating with Operations, Engineering, Quality, Warehouse, and IT teams.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  
  

Education And Formal Training

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Manufacturing, assembly, warehouse, or packaging experience preferred.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, And Ability

• Experience with hand tools and light assembly equipment.
• Basic computer, scanning, or barcode system skills.
• Strong attention to detail and safety awareness.
• Adaptable, willing to learn, and able to work in a fast-paced environment.
  
  

Intellectual Demands

• Ability to follow instructions and work independently or as part of a team.
• Ability to identify routine equipment or process issues and take appropriate action.
• Flexibility to learn other duties, machines, and production areas as needed.