Job Information
Aerotek Production Associate in Vonore, Tennessee
Job Title: Production Associate
Job Description
The Production Associate supports safe and efficient manufacturing operations in a clean plant environment by inspecting products, operating production equipment, and preparing materials for shipment. This is an entry-level role that offers structured training, clear advancement opportunities, and the chance to earn operator certifications across multiple production functions.
Responsibilities
Conduct thorough visual inspections of glass and other products to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications.
Follow all safety, quality, performance, and attendance rules at all times while on the production floor.
Load and unload glass on various conveyor systems in a safe and efficient manner.
Move racks of product throughout the facility using powered industrial trucks, such as forklifts, in accordance with operating procedures.
Band racks of product according to specified requirements to ensure safe handling and transport.
Pack products into racks for shipment to other areas of the plant or directly to customers.
Perform basic adjustments and minor repairs to machinery as needed and/or as directed by leadership or maintenance staff.
Operate production and assembly machinery and equipment as assigned, maintaining focus on safety and productivity.
Generate and maintain accurate records and documentation related to production, quality, and materials handling as required.
Work toward and achieve operator certification in all functions performed, demonstrating proficiency and reliability.
Participate in and support continuous improvement and LEAN initiatives to enhance safety, quality, and efficiency.
Maintain a clean and orderly work area to support a safe and efficient production environment.
Demonstrate consistent and reliable attendance, particularly during the initial 90-day period.
Essential Skills
Experience working in a warehouse, plant, or similar production environment is preferred for entry-level quality inspection roles.
Ability to perform visual inspection of products with attention to detail and accuracy.
Capability to safely operate or learn to operate powered industrial trucks, such as forklifts, to move racks and materials.
Experience with or ability to learn general production, assembly, and machine operation tasks.
Comfort working with machinery, including operating machines and performing basic adjustments as needed.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, standard operating procedures, and safety guidelines.
Strong reliability and commitment to attendance, especially during the first 90 days.
Willingness and ability to work 12-hour shifts, including night shifts (for applicable schedules).
Ability to generate and maintain accurate records related to production and quality.
Physical ability to stand for extended periods, move racks, and handle materials in a plant production environment.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
1–2 years of experience working with machines or operating machinery is preferred for certain assembly roles.
Prior experience in general labor, general production, or assembly is beneficial.
Previous forklift or powered industrial truck experience is an advantage.
Openness to training on night shifts and rotating or compressed workweek schedules.
Interest in progressing from an entry-level Production Associate role to higher-level production positions, such as Production Technician.
Willingness to participate in LEAN and continuous improvement initiatives.
Comfort working in a structured, unionized environment after the initial probationary period.
Ability to adapt to different production functions and achieve operator certifications across multiple areas.
Why Work Here?
Employees benefit from a clean, safe, and well-organized production facility where training is thorough and ongoing. The role offers a clear pathway from entry-level Production Associate to more advanced production positions, with the opportunity to earn operator certifications and grow skills over time. After a 90-day period, team members transition into a union environment that supports competitive pay structures and strong benefits. The schedule includes defined shifts, and new hires receive dedicated orientation and training to set them up for success.
Work Environment
The role is based in a plant production environment that is described as clean, safe, and well-managed. Employees work around conveyor systems, racks of glass, and various production and assembly machinery. Shifts may include night schedules such as 6:30 p.m. to 6:45 a.m. on designated days, with training initially provided on a first-shift schedule (for example, orientation and training during daytime hours in the first week before transitioning to the regular shift). Attendance is critical, particularly in the first 90 days, and performance and safety expectations are clearly defined. The company provides high-visibility vests, hearing protection, and eye protection, while employees must supply their own safety shoes made of leather. The environment supports structured training, operator certification, and continuous improvement activities within a unionized setting after the probationary period.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Vonore, TN.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $19.48 - $19.48/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 Vonore,TN.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 5, 2026.
About Aerotek:
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.