**Job Title: Production Assembler - 1st Shift** **Job Description** This role is responsible for assembling and inspecting products to ensure they meet high quality standards while supporting safe, efficient production operations on the first shift. You will work with hand and power tools, set up and monitor production activities, and actively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, and productivity. **Responsibilities** + Assemble products using hand and power tools in accordance with established procedures and specifications. + Inspect products during and after assembly to verify they meet quality standards and customer requirements. + Maintain a clean, safe, and efficient work area by following all safety guidelines and housekeeping practices. + Set up and monitor production operations to ensure equipment runs smoothly and efficiently. + Identify, report, and help resolve quality or process issues that arise during production. + Actively participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to safety, production efficiency, and product quality. + Use strong observation skills to detect potential issues and take appropriate corrective actions. + Apply troubleshooting skills to address routine production or equipment challenges. + Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production goals and timelines. + Follow all standard operating procedures and work instructions to ensure consistent product quality. **Essential Skills** + Hands-on experience with hand and power tools for small assembly work. + Ability to safely lift up to 30 pounds on a regular basis. + Previous manufacturing experience. + Demonstrated ability to perform tasks with precision and strong attention to detail. + Strong analytical skills to interpret information and concepts effectively. + Ability to collaborate effectively with others while also working independently when required. + Excellent observation skills to identify key details and potential issues in products or processes. + Troubleshooting skills to address production or equipment-related challenges. + Creative thinking and idea generation to support process and quality improvements. + Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills. **Additional Skills & Qualifications** + Comfort working around production machinery and powered industrial trucks. + Willingness to participate in safety and continuous improvement initiatives. + Ability to follow detailed work instructions and standard operating procedures. + Reliability and strong work ethic to support consistent production output. **Why Work Here?** You will join a team that values safety, quality, and continuous improvement, and encourages employees to contribute ideas that make a real impact on operations. The role offers a structured first-shift schedule that supports work-life balance, along with a sign-on bonus that rewards your commitment early in your employment. You will work in an environment that recognizes precision, initiative, and collaboration, and provides opportunities to grow your skills in a stable manufacturing setting. **Work Environment** This is a full-time 1st shift position, typically scheduled from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. You will generally report to a supervisor or manager and work in a manufacturing environment with moderate exposure to machinery and typical industrial risks, including some chemical, biological, and physical exposure. The role may involve operating powered industrial trucks, with exposure levels considered at least industrial and potentially heavy depending on specific tasks. Lifting requirements are generally at or below 30 pounds without significant repetition. The work area is production-focused, where safety procedures, proper use of tools and equipment, and adherence to operational guidelines are essential. **Job Type & Location** This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Freeport, IL. **Pay and Benefits** The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $20.00/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 Freeport,IL. **Application Deadline** This position is anticipated to close on May 8, 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.