Production Associate: Hands-On Labor & Cross-Training

AP Precision Metals, Inc; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 24,796 - 33,062; Full time

Job summary

AP Precision Metals, Inc. in San Diego is seeking a General Labor / Production Associate to join our production team.

The role covers grinding, deburring, finishing metal parts, and installing PEM hardware, with hands-on duties across material handling and light assembly. You will stage jobs for fabrication and shipping, operate pallet jacks or forklifts (training provided), and help maintain quality and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Manufacturing, warehouse, or industrial experience preferred.
• Entry-level applicants with a strong work ethic encouraged to apply.
• Ability to safely use hand tools and basic shop equipment.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to follow written and verbal work instructions.
• Forklift experience or certification is a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

• Grind, deburr, edge-break, and finish metal parts using hand tools and powered equipment.
• Install PEM hardware using Pemserter, Haeger, or similar insertion equipment.
• Countersink, drill, and prepare parts according to work instructions.
• Assist with light assembly of manufactured components.
• Package, label, and prepare finished products for shipment.
• Move raw materials, work-in-process, and finished products throughout the facility.
• Stage production jobs for fabrication, welding, powder coating, assembly, and shipping.
• Assist with loading and unloading materials and delivery vehicles.
• Operate pallet jacks, forklifts, and other material handling equipment (training provided if qualified).
• Perform basic visual inspections of finished parts to ensure quality standards are met.
• Follow work instructions, quality standards, and production schedules.
• Maintain clean, organized work areas in accordance with company housekeeping and 5S standards.
• Follow all safety procedures and properly use required PPE.
• Assist multiple departments as production needs change.
• Participate in cross-training opportunities to expand manufacturing skills.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Work collaboratively with supervisors and fellow production employees.

Skills

Hand tools usage

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Tools

Forklift

Pallet jack

Shop equipment

Job description

AP Precision Metals, Inc. in San Diego is seeking a General Labor / Production Associate to join our production team.

The role covers grinding, deburring, finishing metal parts, and installing PEM hardware, with hands-on duties across material handling and light assembly. You will stage jobs for fabrication and shipping, operate pallet jacks or forklifts (training provided), and help maintain quality and safety standards.