Production Associate

Smurfit-Westrock; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401(k) with Company Match

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Shift Differential Pay

Training and Career Development

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Manufacturing Production Associate to support daily operations by assembling, inspecting, packaging, and preparing products according to company standards. The role emphasizes safety, quality, and efficient workflow in a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities include operating machinery, following work instructions, performing quality checks, and maintaining accurate production records.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience in manufacturing, assembly, or warehousing preferred but not required.
• Ability to read and follow written instructions, diagrams, and safety materials.
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift 30–50 lbs depending on job demands.
• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Reliable, punctual, and collaborative.

Responsibilities

• Operate production equipment and machinery safely and efficiently.
• Assemble parts or components according to work instructions, diagrams, or specifications.
• Perform quality checks; identify defects or deviations and report issues promptly.
• Package, label, and prepare finished goods for shipping or storage.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment following 5S or similar standards.
• Complete production logs, documentation, or digital records accurately.
• Support inventory control by tracking materials and notifying leads of shortages.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production goals.
• Follow all safety guidelines, PPE requirements, and company procedures.
• Assist with machine setup, changeovers, and basic preventive maintenance.

Skills

Instructions following

Math & measurement

Attention to detail

Reliability & punctuality

Teamwork

Mechanical aptitude

Quality & safety awareness

Time management

Problem-solving

Communication

Adaptability

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is the go-to leader and partner of choice in sustainable packaging. We are dedicated to creating efficient and scalable paper and packaging solutions to help solve complex packaging challenges. Guided by our values of safety, loyalty, integrity and respect, we are committed to delivering meaningful value for shareholders, customers, employees and the communities where we operate.

Position Summary

The Manufacturing Production Associate supports daily production operations by assembling, inspecting, packaging, and preparing products in accordance with company standards and safety requirements. This role ensures consistent product quality, efficient workflow, and adherence to established manufacturing processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate production equipment and machinery safely and efficiently.
• Assemble parts or components according to work instructions, diagrams, or specifications.
• Perform quality checks; identify defects or deviations and report issues promptly.
• Package, label, and prepare finished goods for shipping or storage.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment following 5S or similar standards.
• Complete production logs, documentation, or digital records accurately.
• Support inventory control by tracking materials and notifying leads of shortages.
• Collaborate with team members and supervisors to meet production goals.
• Follow all safety guidelines, PPE requirements, and company procedures.
• Assist with machine setup, changeovers, and basic preventive maintenance.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Experience in manufacturing, assembly, or warehousing preferred but not required.
• Ability to read and follow written instructions, diagrams, and safety materials.
• Basic math and measurement skills.
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift 30–50 lbs depending on job demands.
• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Reliable, punctual, and collaborative.
• Mechanical aptitude
• Quality and safety awareness
• Time management
• Problem-solving
• Communication and teamwork
• Adaptability in fast-paced environments
• Manufacturing floor with moderate noise levels.
• PPE required (safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, etc.).
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Shift Differential Pay (if applicable)
• Employee Recognition Programs
• Training and Career Development Opportunities
• Company-Provided PPE
• Tuition Assistance or Reimbursement

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.