Production Associate

Job Title: Production Associate

Job Description

The Production Associate supports the manufacturing of advanced CNG fuel storage systems and tanks for heavy-duty trucks by performing hands-on mechanical assembly, machine operation, and material handling tasks. This role works across multiple production stations, follows detailed work instructions, and uses a variety of tools and equipment to help ensure products meet strict quality, safety, and delivery standards.

Responsibilities

• Interpret and follow detailed work instructions, procedures, and visual instruction sheets to complete production tasks accurately.
• Operate assembly tools, fixtures, and specialized equipment safely and efficiently in a manufacturing environment.
• Perform mechanical assembly tasks using hand and power tools to build and prepare fuel storage tanks and related components.
• Assist with filament winding operations, including resin application, resin squeezing, tool cleaning, and setting up floor mats.
• Support rotomolding processes by preparing materials, loading and providing raw materials such as resin and paxon, and performing boss recovery tasks.
• Carry out tank labeling and foam dome installation with a high level of precision and attention to detail.
• Assemble and package products to meet or exceed established quality standards and delivery timelines.
• Lift and move raw materials, finished products, and packed items as needed throughout the shift.
• Clean, lubricate, and perform basic care of equipment to support smooth and reliable operation.
• Dispose of scrap resin, fiber, cardboard, and other production waste according to established procedures.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area and support 5S housekeeping standards across all assigned stations.
• Work at different production stations as needed, including rotomold operation, filament winding, trailer assembly, tube bending, and testing stations.
• As a Rotomold Operator, use injection mold machines to form tanks and monitor equipment for proper operation.
• Support winding machine operations to wrap tanks with resin and protective layers, learning troubleshooting steps and working with composite materials such as carbon fiber.
• As a Trailer Assembler, prepare tanks for installation in trucks, including conducting pressure tests and final checks.
• Perform tube bending tasks by installing and shaping metal tubing and safety equipment around tanks.
• Work on adapter, volumetric, end-of-line domes, and labeling stations by measuring tanks, checking pressurization, and using water tanks to check for leaks or bubbles.
• Follow all safety guidelines, including proper use of tools, machines, and personal protective equipment.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production goals, support overtime needs, and respond to changing priorities.
• Consistently demonstrate reliable attendance and punctuality to support production schedules and overtime requirements.

Essential Skills

• At least 1.5 years of experience in production, manufacturing, or machine operation.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to work confidently with mechanical assemblies and production equipment.
• Experience and proficiency with common hand and power tools, with the ability to name and use tools typically found in a toolbox.
• Ability to operate production or machine equipment safely and follow standard operating procedures.
• Capability to interpret and follow detailed work instructions and procedures.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds on a regular basis and stand for extended periods.
• Willingness and ability to work mandatory overtime, including 10–12 hour days and some Saturdays when required.
• Comfort working in multiple stations and learning new processes such as rotomolding, filament winding, trailer assembly, and tube bending.
• Strong attention to detail and quality in labeling, measuring, and assembly tasks.
• Commitment to maintaining a clean and organized work area and supporting 5S housekeeping practices.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality to support production schedules.
• Availability to work 1st shift, Monday through Friday, generally 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with potential earlier start times for overtime.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with visual instruction sheets, routers, or blueprints is a plus.
• Familiarity with composite materials such as resin, epoxy, fiberglass, Kevlar, pre-preg materials, and carbon fiber is beneficial.
• Experience working with winding machines, rotomolding equipment, or similar manufacturing machinery is an advantage.
• Knowledge of or exposure to pressure testing processes and working with pressurized systems is a plus.
• Experience using a torque wrench or willingness to learn proper torque application is desirable.
• Comfort working with measurement tools and performing precise measurements for quality checks.
• Ability to troubleshoot minor issues with tools or machines under guidance after training.
• Strong teamwork skills and the ability to communicate clearly with coworkers and supervisors.
• Adaptability and willingness to rotate between different workstations as production needs change.

Why Work Here?

The company offers a stable, full-time role in a growing advanced manufacturing environment, with a clear path from contract to permanent employment based on performance and attendance. Team members enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid time off, vacation time, and a 401(k) plan. The organization values safety, cleanliness, and continuous improvement, and it invests in training so employees can develop new technical skills across multiple production stations. Employees have the opportunity to build a long-term career in a modern facility while contributing to innovative fuel system technologies.

Work Environment

The role is based in a very clean, large manufacturing facility that houses multiple machines and production lines. The environment is modern and organized, with a strong focus on safety, 5S housekeeping, and efficient workflows. Production associates work around rotomold machines, filament winding equipment, tube bending stations, and various assembly and testing areas, with continuous machine operation but not an overly harsh or heavy industrial atmosphere. The position is a 1st shift role, generally scheduled Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with frequent opportunities and requirements for overtime; start times may move earlier (such as 5:00 a.m.) and shifts can extend to 10–12 hours, including some Saturdays, to meet production demand. Employees wear appropriate personal protective equipment and closed-toe, protective footwear such as steel-toed boots to safely perform hands-on work with tools, machinery, and materials.

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

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $23.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Lake Forest,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on May 15, 2026.

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.