Production Associate

Job Title:

Entry-Level Production Associate - Sheet Metal Fabrication Job Description The Entry-Level Production Associate supports the sheet metal fabrication process by assisting with machine setup, material handling, and basic quality checks. Working closely with experienced team members in a fast-paced metal shop, this role offers hands-on training and a strong foundation for a long-term career in manufacturing. 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 accurate fabrication. Perform basic quality checks to confirm that products meet required specifications and standards. Follow all safety protocols and maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work area. Collaborate with team members to meet daily production goals and deadlines. Learn and apply various sheet metal fabrication techniques and processes under the guidance of experienced staff. Use hand tools, power tools, grinders, tape measures, and other equipment safely and effectively as part of the production process. Handle general production tasks such as packaging, packing, stacking, sweeping, and cleaning as needed. Support material handling activities, including loading, unloading, and moving materials throughout the shop. Report any equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, or quality issues promptly to supervisors. Essential Skills Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately. Ability to work effectively as part of a team in a production environment. Basic math skills and the ability to read and interpret measurements, including the use of a tape measure. Willingness to learn and adapt to new tasks, tools, and technologies. Physical ability to lift and move materials up to 50 lbs as required. Comfort working around sheet metal, machinery, and general production equipment. Basic familiarity with hand tools and power tools used in fabrication or general labor. Additional Skills & Qualifications Previous experience in a manufacturing, metal shop, or general production environment is a plus but not required. Basic knowledge of sheet metal fabrication processes and equipment is an advantage. Experience with general labor tasks such as material handling, loading, stacking, sweeping, and cleaning. Exposure to or experience with grinders, fabrication tools, and other shop equipment. Forklift experience or willingness to learn forklift operation, if needed for material handling. Experience with packaging and packing finished products for shipment is beneficial. Why Work Here? You join a growing operation that invests in developing entry-level talent into skilled trades professionals. The team offers clear pathways to advance into higher-skilled roles such as fabricator and welder, providing opportunities to increase your responsibilities and earning potential over time. You gain hands-on training in modern sheet metal fabrication while working alongside experienced professionals who support your growth, helping you build a stable and rewarding career in manufacturing. Work Environment This role is based in a metal fabrication shop located in Oakland. You work in a fast-paced production environment around sheet metal, fabrication machinery such as shears, press brakes, and laser cutters, and various hand and power tools. The position is physically active and involves standing for extended periods, lifting materials, and performing tasks such as loading, stacking, sweeping, and cleaning. The shop environment emphasizes safety, organization, and teamwork, with a focus on maintaining a clean and efficient workspace. 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 May 29, 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.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.