Apprenticeships in Equipment Maintenance, Automation, Setup & Process Technicians

Suncast Corporation; Batavia (IL); On-site; USD 24,000 - 35,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition reimbursement

Medical, Dental, Vision insurance

401K with employer match

Paid vacation time

Job summary

Suncast Corporation, a leading US-based manufacturer, offers a structured apprenticeship program in manufacturing. The Apprentice role combines full-time employment with hands-on training, mentor guidance, and classroom instruction in areas like Equipment Maintenance, Automation, Setup and Process.

Starting at $21.50 per hour, the program includes tuition reimbursement and comprehensive benefits as you work toward an Associate Degree and a long-term career in manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and interest in tools and machinery.
• Strong desire to learn technical skills and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to follow instructions, procedures, and safety guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Participate in on-the-job training and rotational assignments within the apprenticeship track.
• Learn safe work practices and comply with safety policies and procedures.
• Assist with equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs, setups, and process improvements.
• Develop knowledge of mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, automation, and manufacturing systems.
• Operate hand and power tools and manufacturing machinery safely and effectively.
• Support preventive maintenance to ensure equipment reliability and production efficiency.
• Maintain records of training progress and coursework.
• Attend classes to obtain an Associate Degree.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Willingness to learn

Teamwork

Strong communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Basic computer skills

Job description

Suncast Corporationis the leading US-based designer, manufacturer, and distributor of high-quality resin products for the home and industrial markets. A privately held company headquartered in Western Chicago, Illinois, Suncast prides itself on 35 years of innovation and sustainability across a wide range of product categories with materials proudly sourced in the USA. Everything we do is supported by the strength and ingenuity of American workers and we are committed to helping families across the country make the most of their unique spaces. We utilize state-of-the-art machinery and innovative manufacturing techniques to consistently engineer products of the highest possible quality.

Suncast is the market leader in the manufacture of plastic injection and blow molded home and garden items, which are sold by large retailers worldwide. To keep pace with our continued growth and expansion, Suncast Corporation has established an apprenticeship program to train and develop our future technicians in all manufacturing areas, such as Equipment Maintenance, Automation, Setup and Process. Establish a challenging, rewarding, lifetime career in manufacturing!

The Apprentice is responsible for participating in a structured apprenticeship program that combines full-time employment, hands‑on training, mentorship, and classroom instruction. Apprentices will develop technical skills in Metals, Automation, Setup, Equipment Maintenance, or Process while working alongside experienced professionals. The program is designed to prepare individuals for a successful long‑term career in manufacturing through practical experience, technical education, and continuous skill development. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program and degree requirements, the Apprentice will transition to an off‑shift position and be assigned to a specific department based on business needs and demonstrated competencies. Complete your education with no student debt and an established career in manufacturing!

Responsibilities:

• Participate in on‑the‑job training and rotational assignments within the assigned apprenticeship track.
• Learn and apply safe work practices while maintaining compliance with company safety policies and procedures.
• Assist with equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs, setups, and process improvements under the guidance of experienced mentors.
• Develop knowledge of mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, automation, and manufacturing systems as applicable to the assigned area.
• Operate hand tools, power tools, testing equipment, and manufacturing machinery safely and effectively.
• Support preventive maintenance activities to ensure equipment reliability and production efficiency.
• Demonstrate problem‑solving skills to identify and assist in resolving equipment and process issues.
• Complete all required apprenticeship coursework and maintain satisfactory academic performance.
• Attend classes at an approved educational institution to obtain an Associate Degree.
• Maintain accurate records of training progress, coursework, and apprenticeship requirements.
• Communicate effectively with team members, trainers, supervisors, and cross‑functional departments.
• Demonstrate professionalism, dependability, and a willingness to learn new skills and technologies.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and support operational excellence objectives.
• Successfully complete all apprenticeship program requirements within the established timeframe.
• Support and comply with all Suncast safety policies, quality standards, and housekeeping practices.
• Perform additional duties as required.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Ability and willingness to enroll in and complete a company‑sponsored apprenticeship education program.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and interest in working with tools, equipment, and machinery.
• Strong desire to learn technical skills and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to identify problems and develop effective solutions.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Self‑motivated and capable of working independently as well as part of a team.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic computer skills and willingness to learn new technology.
• Ability to follow instructions, procedures, and safety guidelines.
• Interest in pursuing a challenging and rewarding career in manufacturing.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform repetitive movements for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and push or pull materials and equipment up to 100 lbs. as required.
• Ability to safely work around manufacturing and wear required safety equipment.

We will:

• Provide full‑time employment starting at $21.50/hour.
• Pay your tuition, books and fees at one of several local community colleges for the duration of the program, when you enroll in their Industrial Maintenance apprenticeship programs.
• Give you hands‑on, on‑the‑job training, development and mentoring in your area of interest.
• Offer you great benefits.

Suncast offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, Dental, Prescription Drugs, Vision insurance, Telehealth benefits
• Group Term Life insurance
• 401K with employer match
• Paid vacation time off
• Paid holidays
• Short- and long‑term disability coverage
• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for health
• Paid Parental Leave (maternity & paternity)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• For more information, contact Guadalupe Arriola at [e-mail]

All qualified applicants will be given equal consideration regardless of race, age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, color, religion, protected veteran status or national origin.