Job Title: Manufacturing Associate
Job Description
The Manufacturing Associate plays a key role in a highly technical, fast-paced production environment, performing manual wet chemical tank and conveyor etching on panel substrates to meet strict customer specifications. This position handles stripping and seeding steps, accurately measures and documents critical panel characteristics, and supports plating operations through cross-training. By following detailed work instructions, maintaining equipment, and upholding safety and quality standards, the Associate helps ensure reliable, on-time delivery of precision panels for demanding applications.
Responsibilities
Execute wet chemical tank and conveyor etching processes in accordance with standard work instructions, consistently meeting customer specifications for concentration, temperature, dwell time, and other critical parameters.
Read, interpret, and apply special instructions or traveler notes, including requirements for unique panel materials, custom etch depths, and other non-standard processing needs.
Measure critical panel dimensions and surface conditions using specialized gauges and tools such as micrometers and thickness gauges to verify conformance to specifications.
Accurately document measurements, process parameters, and observed trends on product control worksheets and traveler review sheets to maintain robust process traceability.
Load, unload, and process panels through various wet chemical tanks and conveyors using frames, leaders, and backboards, ensuring proper alignment and handling to prevent defects or damage.
Participate in cross-training for plating processes on both manual tanks and automated lines, and provide support to plating operations as production demands require.
Maintain a clean, organized workspace and equipment in full compliance with safety regulations, including proper rinsing of stations, appropriate disposal of chemical waste, and keeping aisles and work areas clear.
Perform scheduled preventive maintenance on etch equipment following the operator process control checklist, including checking conveyor belts, inspecting pumps, and cleaning tank filters.
Complete daily tasks as directed by the production schedule with minimal supervision while consistently meeting or exceeding throughput and quality targets.
Communicate process feedback, equipment issues, and material concerns promptly and clearly to department leadership to support timely troubleshooting and continuous improvement.
Collaborate effectively with peers and leadership to meet production demands, support continuous improvement initiatives, and maintain a positive, team-oriented work environment.
Essential Skills
High school diploma or GED.
At least 1 year of experience in wet chemical etching, plating, or a related manufacturing environment preferred.
Ability to read written instructions clearly and write legibly for accurate documentation and recordkeeping.
Strong attention to detail and a quality-driven mindset, ensuring each panel meets all specifications before moving downstream.
Mechanical aptitude with the ability and desire to learn and support additional processes such as plating.
Effective time-management skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks under tight deadlines in a fast-paced setting.
Basic math skills to support accurate measurements, calculations, and process adjustments.
Ability to read and write with legible penmanship to ensure clear communication and documentation.
Effective written and verbal communication skills to report measurements, log trends, and escalate issues clearly.
Team-oriented attitude with a willingness to help peers and adapt to changing production needs.
Commitment to workplace safety and adherence to all environmental, health, and safety protocols.
Demonstrated ability to retain technical knowledge and apply it consistently to daily tasks.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience with machine operation, assembly, warehouse tasks, or similar hands-on manufacturing roles.
Familiarity with wet chemical processing, etching, or plating operations in an industrial setting.
Comfort using hand tools and specialized gauges such as micrometers and thickness gauges.
Strong mechanical inclination and curiosity about equipment function, maintenance, and process optimization.
Ability to multitask effectively while maintaining thoroughness and accuracy in a high-volume environment.
Demonstrated time management skills, including the ability to organize work, follow schedules, and meet production targets.
Proven attention to detail and thoroughness in following work instructions, documenting data, and inspecting product quality.
Why Work Here?
Employees benefit from a comprehensive total rewards package that supports both their professional growth and personal well-being. The organization offers competitive compensation with performance-based bonus opportunities, including quarterly and individual performance bonuses that recognize and reward strong contributions. An Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) allows team members to share in the company's success and build long-term financial security. Generous paid time off, including substantial vacation time and holidays, supports work-life balance and time away from work. Affordable health coverage options include low-cost medical, dental, vision, and voluntary life insurance, complemented by Flexible Spending Accounts and a 401(k) plan with company match to help employees plan for the future. A wellness incentive program encourages healthy habits, while an Employee Assistance Program provides confidential support during challenging times. Tuition assistance and defined career development pathways demonstrate a strong commitment to ongoing learning, advancement, and internal promotion, creating an environment where dedication and performance are recognized and rewarded.
Work Environment
The work environment centers on engineering precision components that serve demanding industries such as medical, aerospace, and electronics, where quality and reliability are paramount. Employees work in a production setting that involves wet chemical processing, etching tanks, conveyors, and related equipment, using specialized gauges and measurement tools to verify product conformance. The role operates on 3rd shift in a fast-paced, schedule-driven environment where meeting throughput and quality targets is essential. Safety, environmental stewardship, and adherence to established procedures are core expectations, with clear protocols for chemical handling, waste disposal, equipment maintenance, and housekeeping. As an employee-owned organization, every team member has a voice and a stake in the company's success, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement. The company invests in ongoing training, cross-training, and internal advancement, creating a setting where attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to quality can have a meaningful impact on both individual and collective results.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Plymouth, MA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $19.60 - $19.60/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 Plymouth,MA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 31, 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.
