Production Assistant

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Production Assistant performs hands-on production and assembly work according to the production plan, and work instructions and prepares finished goods to be handed off to the warehouse and shipping teams. The role operates a forklift and other material-handling equipment when needed, coordinates with the Procurement team to keep production materials and consumables ordered and available, and supports product quality, rework, and the accuracy of production records. This position requires a focus on quality, safety, and efficiency in a fast-paced environment, and is vital to meeting daily production output and on-time completion targets.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

- Production & Assembly

- Perform production activities such as programming, testing, kitting, labeling, and packaging of equipment, according to the production plan and work instructions.

- Set up the work area, programs, and materials for each run; operate tools and equipment efficiently and safely, adhering to operational procedures, regulations, and safety guidelines.

- Work collaboratively with the team to meet production schedules and daily operational goals; maintain the pace required by the plan.

- Prepare, label, and stage finished and kitted goods for the warehouse/shipping.

- Quality & Rework

- Follow production quality standards and guidelines to ensure the product meets company and customer standards; inspect your own work and flag defects before they move downstream.

- Execute rework and reprocessing for non-conforming or system-failed units as required to ensure compliance with quality standards, and support nonconforming-material (MRB) disposition with the Quality team.

- Identify and report any issues related to safety, maintenance, equipment, materials, or processes to supervisors.

- Production Records & System Transactions

- Maintain accurate records of production processes, including units built, serial numbers, inventory counts, and activity logs.

- Record production completion and perform or support the related inventory transactions in data management systems as required for production.

- Material & Procurement Coordination

- Monitor the components, consumables, and supplies needed for production and flag shortages early.

- Work with the Procurement team to ensure timely ordering and availability of production materials so the line can meet forecast and production requirements.

- Forklift Operations & Material Handling

- Operate a forklift and other material-handling equipment safely to move materials and products to and from the production area.

- Assist with staging and the safe movement of goods as needed.

- Follow all forklift safety protocols and champion forklift safety in the facility.

- Communication, Training & Coordination

- Foster effective communication and collaboration with supervisors, Procurement, Quality, Safety, and team members to ensure smooth operations and achieve shared goals.

- Provide work direction and assist in training new team members to ensure compliance with company standards, safety protocols, quality standards, and production objectives.

- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace in compliance with company policies.

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

- Hands-on production/assembly skill

- Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality standards

- Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment

- Basic math and reading skills; ability to follow instructions and document processes accurately

- Ability to complete detailed data entry

- Computer skills

- Time management

- Dependability

- Proficient verbal and written communication skills

- Teamwork

- Problem-solving skills

DESIRED EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

- High School Diploma or equivalent, required.

- 2 years’ experience in production, assembly, or a related field, preferred (electronics programming/kitting a plus).

- Certified forklift operator or ability to obtain certification.

- Proficiency with production/inventory systems and Microsoft Office Suite, preferred.

- Experience coordinating material availability with a Procurement / purchasing team, preferred.

- Bilingual (English/Spanish), preferred.

- Ability to lift 30 lbs. and work in a physically demanding environment when needed.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY

This position does not have formal supervisory responsibility but may provide work direction and training to other production operators.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position operates in a Production and Warehouse Environment.

POSITION TYPE / EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK

This is a full-time position, and hours of work and days are Monday through Friday. This position may periodically require long hours or weekend work.

BENEFITS

- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

- Health Savings Account or Flexible Savings Account.

- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

- Paid time off (PTO) and Holidays.

- Company paid Life Insurance.

- Company paid Short Term Disability.

- Opportunities for professional development and growth.