Manufacturing Associate I - Fabrication

MarketLab; Caledonia (MI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Marketlab in Grand Rapids, MI, is hiring a Manufacturing Associate I – Fabrication to support daily operations by cutting, shaping, trimming, and finishing plastic components using various tools. This hands-on role values pride in work, mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn.

You will read blueprints, verify dimensions with tape measures, inspect parts for quality, operate forklifts and order pickers as trained, and help with setup, packaging, and changeovers.

Qualifications

• Willingness to learn fabrication processes and train as needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate fabrication equipment to cut, shape, trim, and finish plastic components per specifications.
• Read and interpret basic blueprints, drawings, and work instructions to ensure accurate production.
• Use measuring tools to verify dimensions, tolerances, and product quality throughout production.
• Inspect finished components for accuracy and quality, and communicate discrepancies to leadership.
• Operate material handling equipment including forklifts (Hi-Lo) and order pickers as trained.
• Follow safety procedures, quality standards, and work instructions when operating equipment.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment following 5S principles.
• Accurately complete production documentation and records.
• Support production activities including material prep, assembly, packaging, and changeovers as needed.
• Collaborate with team members and leadership to meet production goals and drive continuous improvement.

Skills

Blueprint reading

Tape measure use

Attention to detail

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Communication

Problem solving

Willingness to learn

Mechanical aptitude

Time management

Tools

Hand routers

Table routers

Band saws

Drill presses

Forklifts (Hi-Lo)

Order pickers

Tape measure

Job description

Marketlab is a market-leading healthcare solutions organization specializing in the design, manufacturing, and sourcing of private-label products. It’s our mission to provide our healthcare partners with timely solutions through a straightforward approach based on knowing them and their work. Every day, we strive to positively impact the lives of the people who, in turn, impact the health and wellness of our communities.

Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Marketlab’s success is built upon a foundation of collaboration, innovation, and the belief that every team member plays a vital role in creating an exceptional customer service experience.

The Opportunity:

The Manufacturing Associate I – Fabrication is responsible for supporting daily manufacturing operations by cutting, shaping, trimming, and finishing plastic components using a variety of tools and equipment. This hands-on role requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and a commitment to producing high-quality products that meet customer specifications.

The ideal candidate enjoys working with their hands, takes pride in their work, and is eager to learn new manufacturing processes and equipment. This position offers an opportunity to develop technical skills while contributing to a collaborative, safety-focused manufacturing team.

What You'll Do:

Operate fabrication equipment, including hand routers, table routers, band saws, and drill presses, to cut, shape, trim, and finish plastic components according to specifications.

Read and interpret basic manufacturing blueprints, drawings, and work instructions to ensure accurate production.

Use tape measures and other measuring tools to verify dimensions, tolerances, and product quality throughout the manufacturing process.

Inspect finished components for accuracy and quality, identifying and communicating any discrepancies or concerns to leadership.

Operate material handling equipment, including forklifts (Hi-Lo) and order pickers, as trained and authorized, to move and organize materials and finished products.

Follow established safety procedures, quality standards, and work instructions when operating equipment and handling materials.

Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment by following 5S principles.

Accurately complete required production documentation and records.

Support general production activities, including material preparation, assembly, packaging, and equipment changeovers as needed.

Collaborate with team members and leadership to meet production goals, troubleshoot issues, and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

What You'll Bring:

Previous manufacturing experience is helpful but not required; we are willing to train individuals who demonstrate mechanical aptitude and a willingness to learn.

Ability to read and interpret basic manufacturing blueprints, drawings, and work instructions, or willingness to develop these skills.

Ability to accurately use a tape measure, including fractional measurements, and understand basic dimensions and tolerances.

Basic mechanical aptitude and comfort working with hand tools and manufacturing equipment.

Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.

Ability to follow detailed instructions and maintain a safe working environment.

Ability to work independently while also contributing to a team-oriented environment.

Strong communication, problem-solving, and time-management skills.

Dependability, adaptability, and a willingness to learn new processes and equipment.

Previous experience working with woodworking, sheet metal, plastics, or similar fabrication processes is a plus.

Previous forklift or order picker experience is a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.