Production Associate - 1st Shift

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc; Earth City (MO); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) contribution and matching

Quarterly profit sharing

Comprehensive medical plan

Paid time off

Discount program

Job summary

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc is looking for a dedicated Production Associate in Earth City, Missouri. The role involves operating various production machinery and conducting quality inspections to ensure product standards. Ideal candidates should possess strong mechanical reasoning abilities and be adaptable to changes.

Benefits include a comprehensive medical plan, 401(k) matching, and quarterly profit sharing. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and able to pass a background check.

Qualifications

• Must be a minimum of 18 years old.
• Must be able to pass both a background and drug screen.

Responsibilities

• Conduct rapid and precise changeovers on equipment for efficient production.
• Safely operate CNC turning and milling machines.
• Operate finishing equipment to prepare parts for final assembly.
• Conduct quality inspections to identify defects.
• Perform routine equipment preventative maintenance.

Skills

Flexibility and adaptability to changes

Good mechanical reasoning abilities

Strong problem-solving skills

Strong communication skills

Detail & quality oriented

Strong interpersonal skills

Ability to take direction

Education

High school diploma preferred

Job description

Job Description

Starting wage is based on experience and shift. In addition to a base wage, every associate is eligible for quarterly profit sharing. Various shifts are available and off shifts include additional shift differential pay.

Position Summary

A Production Associate is responsible for front‑line production needs. The ideal candidate is dedicated, flexible, and eager to master new skills within a learning‑focused manufacturing environment. Basic to complex machine operation is required, including the operation of injection molding equipment, furnaces, CNC and milling machines, finishing equipment, assembly work, and other duties as assigned. Visual alertness, hand dexterity, and attention to detail are necessary.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Flexible and adaptable to changes in assignments and willing to work overtime and occasional Saturday shifts if required.
• Good mechanical reasoning abilities.
• Strong problem‑solving and communication skills.
• Self‑motivated and capable of working independently.
• Detail & quality oriented.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to take direction.

Essential Job Functions

• Equipment Changeovers: Conduct rapid and precise changeovers on metal injection molding equipment to ensure continuous, efficient production.
• Machining & CNC Operations: Safely operate CNC turning and milling machines, managing parameters and monitoring outputs to produce components to exacting specifications.
• Finishing Operations: Operate finishing equipment to achieve desired surface appearance and prepare parts for final assembly.
• Quality Inspections: Conduct thorough quality inspections, utilizing measuring tools and visual alertness to identify defects and ensure compliance with strict design standards.
• Equipment PM & Lean Manufacturing: Perform routine equipment preventative maintenance, participate in Daily Kaizen, and practice lean manufacturing principles to improve processes and eliminate waste.

Preferred Skills

• Previous machine operator or high‑volume, medium‑mix manufacturing environment experience.
• High school diploma preferred, but not required.

Requirements

• Must be a minimum of 18 years old.
• Must be able to pass both a background and drug screen.

Physical Demands

• Frequently required to stand, walk, use hands and fingers, handle or feel, and reach with hands and arms.
• May involve sitting, walking, and lifting up to 40 pounds several times throughout the day.
• Job is performed standing all day.
• Requires substantial movement/motion with regard to walking, bending, lifting, grasping, and applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palms.

Benefits

• 401(k) contribution up to 4% safe harbor match, additional 5% supplemental 401(k) contribution.
• Quarterly profit sharing for all associates.
• Comprehensive medical plan, prescription drug coverage, dental plans, vision care plan.
• Life insurance, supplemental term life, flexible spending accounts.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability coverage.
• Paid time off, twelve paid company holidays.
• Associate discount program, additional outside vendor discounts.
• Travel assistance, resource advisor (EAP).

Career Path & Opportunities

• Structured cross‑training and career advancement through the Ruger Associate Development (RAD) plan.
• Expandable manufacturing knowledge through on‑the‑job training, cross‑training across multiple work cells, and educational programs like Ruger University.