What does a Production Associate do?
Published 4 min read
A production associate is responsible for a variety of tasks on the production floor of a manufacturing or assembly plant. They may operate machinery, assemble products, perform quality control checks, or pack finished goods for shipping. Production associates must be able to work quickly and efficiently to meet production goals.
Production Associate job duties include:
- Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, or work orders to determine materials required and machines to be used
- Assemble and install equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications
- Operate newly installed machines or equipment to verify operational efficiency
- Perform routine maintenance on machines, equipment, or tools
- Examine workpieces for defects and measure workpieces with rulers or calipers to determine accuracy of machine operation
- Start machines or equipment to begin production processes
- Monitor the feed and speed of materials through the machine
- Observe operation of machines and equipment to ensure continuity of flow, safety, and efficient operation
- Shut down and restart machines as necessary during production runs
Production Associate Job Requirements
A Production Associate typically needs a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, and must be able to operate machinery. Certification is not typically required, but may be helpful. Previous experience in a production or manufacturing environment is preferred.
Production Associate Skills
- Communication
- Organizational
- Multi-tasking
- Leadership
- Problem solving
- Flexibility
- Decision making
- Teamwork
- Coordination
- Creativity
- Patience
Related: Top Production Associate Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Production Associate
The first step to becoming a Production Associate is to research the job market and find out what employers are looking for. Many production companies have specific requirements for their employees, so it is important to be aware of these before applying for a position. Once you have an idea of the skills and experience required, you can begin to build your resume.
If you have previous experience working in a production environment, be sure to list this on your resume. If you do not have any direct experience, consider listing other jobs that have given you transferable skills. For example, if you have worked in customer service, you will likely have developed strong communication skills that would be beneficial in a production setting.
Once your resume is complete, start searching for Production Associate positions online or through job listings in your local area. When applying for jobs, be sure to tailor your cover letter and resume to each position. This will show employers that you are knowledgeable about their specific company and what they are looking for in an employee.
If you are offered an interview for a Production Associate position, be sure to prepare ahead of time by researching the company and practicing your answers to common interview questions. During the interview, be honest about your qualifications and highlight any relevant experience or skills that you possess. If hired, remember that success in this role will require hard work and dedication. However, if you are willing to put in the effort, you can become a valuable member of any production team.
Related: Production Associate Resume Example
Related: Production Associate Interview Questions (With Example Answers)