Production Associate - 2nd Shift

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

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) Retirement Plan

Quarterly Profit Sharing

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc in Earth City is looking for Production Associates to operate machinery in a manufacturing environment. This role offers career advancement through structured training and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and 401(k).

Ideal candidates should possess machine operation skills, attention to detail, and be self-motivated. Experience in a manufacturing setting is preferred but not required as training will be provided.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old, pass background and drug screen.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Must be detail-oriented and self-motivated.

Responsibilities

• Conduct rapid changeovers on metal injection molding equipment.
• Safely operate CNC turning and milling machines.
• Perform quality inspections to ensure compliance with standards.

Skills

Machine operation

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Education

High School Diploma

Tools

Injection molding equipment

CNC machines

Finishing equipment

Job description

Introduction

If you are a current Ruger employee, please click here to apply internally. 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. Join the team that is part of an American Tradition! Ruger Firearms is one of the nation’s leading manufacturers of rugged, reliable firearms for the commercial sporting market.

We are seeking driven Production Associates to operate our manufacturing equipment to produce high quality components to support building American‑made firearms. This is an opportunity to grow your career on a dynamic, cross‑trained team focused on your learning and development. Our associates will have the opportunity to receive benefits that include a 401(k) contribution, quarterly profit sharing, medical, dental, vision, FSA, life insurance, short‑term and long‑term disability coverage.

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.

Essential Job Functions

• Equipment Changeovers: Conduct rapid and precise changeovers on metal injection molding (MIM) 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 (PM), participate in Daily Kaizen, and practice lean manufacturing principles to improve processes and eliminate waste.

Why Join Our Team?

• Career Advancement: This is more than a job; it’s a path to grow your career. Advancement opportunities are available through structured cross‑training and meeting specified criteria according to the Ruger Associate Development (RAD) plan.
• Continuous Learning: Expand your manufacturing knowledge through on‑the‑job training, cross‑training across multiple work cells, and educational programs such as Ruger University.

Preferred Skills

Previous machine operator experience or high‑volume, medium‑mix manufacturing environment experience. High School Diploma is preferred but not required. We will provide on‑the‑job training for motivated candidates who meet the basic qualifications.

Physical Demands

Associates frequently stand; walk; use hands and fingers, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The position involves sitting, walking and lifting up to 40 pounds several times throughout the day. Job is performed standing all day, requiring substantial walking, bending, lifting, grasping and applying pressure with the fingers and palms.

Requirements

Must be a minimum of 18 years old, and able to pass both a background and drug screen. Must be willing to work overtime and occasional Saturday shifts if required. Must possess good mechanical reasoning abilities, strong problem‑solving and communication skills, be self‑motivated, detail‑oriented and capable of working independently. Ability to take direction and strong interpersonal skills are essential.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical Plan
• Prescription Drug Coverage
• Dental Plans
• Vision Care Plan
• Life Insurance
• Supplemental Term Life
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with up to 4% Safe Harbor Company Match and additional 5% Supplemental 401(k) Company Contribution
• Paid Time Off
• Twelve Paid Company Holidays
• Short‑Term & Long‑Term Disability Plans
• Associate Discount Program
• Additional Outside Vendor Discounts
• Quarterly Profit Sharing for All Associates
• Additional Bonus Opportunities for Qualified Positions
• Travel Assistance
• Resource Advisor (EAP)