Production Associates/Assemblers 2nd shift

Danfoss Drives; Loves Park (IL); On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid vacation

Personal insurance

Global opportunities

Job summary

Danfoss Drives in Loves Park, IL is seeking a 2nd Shift Production Associate to join a fast-paced team building solutions that power progress. You will assemble components, test, and ensure quality, while operating forklifts and handling materials to keep production running smoothly.

The role emphasizes safety, hands-on learning, and growth within a global company that values development and internal advancement.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED, or 3 months min experience with Danfoss products.
• At least 18 years old and eligible to work in the U.S.
• Valid Class C (or higher) driver's license for potential backup duties.
• Comfort reading hydraulic/electrical schematics; MS Office, PLCs, test stands.
• Basic knowledge of PPAP, 8D, PFMEA, and capability studies.
• Strong English communication to follow safety procedures and work instructions.

Responsibilities

• Assemble components end-to-end, including setup, testing, and quality checks.
• Operate forklifts, tuggers, and hand trucks to move materials safely.
• Refill/deliver Kanban bins, handle part numbers, and clean machines.
• Identify shortages, inspect assemblies, and support process improvements.
• Rotate across production areas and perform cross-functional material handling tasks.

Skills

Assemble components

Testing

Quality checks

Operate forklifts

Material handling

Report shortages

Cross-functional tasks

Safety procedures

Reading schematics

Microsoft Office

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

PLCs

Test stands

Forklifts

Job description

At Danfoss, your work powers more than machines — it powers progress. As a 2nd Shift Production Associate in our Loves Park facility, you’ll be part of a team that builds solutions shaping a better tomorrow. From climate-friendly technologies to sustainable manufacturing, your contributions will help create products that matter.

You won’t just be assembling components — you’ll be ensuring every product meets the highest standards of quality and performance. You’ll play a vital role in delivering what our customers count on: reliability, precision, and innovation built into every solution.

If you’re hands-on, safety-conscious, and want to grow your skills in a fast-moving environment where your work has real impact, this could be your next step. Join us and become part of a global company that invests in your development.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Assemble components from start to finish, including set-up, testing, and quality checks, ensuring every product meets Danfoss’ high standards.
• Operate forklifts, tuggers, and hand trucks to safely move materials throughout the plant and keep production running smoothly.
• Refill and deliver Kanban bins, handle various part numbers, and perform routine machine cleaning to maintain an efficient workflow.
• Identify and report part shortages, inspect assemblies for quality, and support continuous improvement in the production process.
• Rotate across production areas and take on cross-functional tasks — including material handling — to meet evolving customer and business needs.

What We’re Looking For

• High school diploma or GED, or at least 3 months of experience with Danfoss products.
• At least 18 years old and eligible to work in the U.S.
• Valid Class C (or higher) driver’s license for potential backup truck driving responsibilities.
• Comfortable reading hydraulic and electrical schematics; familiarity with Microsoft Office, PLCs, and test stands.
• Basic knowledge of quality tools like PPAP, 8D, PFMEA, and capability studies.
• Strong English communication skills, both written and verbal, to follow safety procedures and work instructions.

Physical Requirements

• Lifting: Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds regularly
• Pushing/Pulling: Ability to push or pull carts/materials up to 50 pounds
• Standing/Walking: Ability to stand and walk for up to 8 hours per shift, including overtime
• Repetitive Motion: Frequent use of hands for assembly, gripping, and tool operation
• Tool Use: Ability to perform repetitive assembly operations using electric and pneumatic hand tools, requiring sustained hand, wrist, and arm movement
• Bending/Reaching: Occasional bending, stooping, and reaching above shoulder height
• Manual Dexterity: Good hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills required
• Visual Requirements: Ability to inspect small components and identify defects

What You’ll Get from Us

• We promote from within and support your learning with mentoring, training, and access to global opportunities.
• You’ll have flexibility, autonomy, and support to do your best work while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Your well-being matters to us.
• We strive to create an inclusive work environment where people of all backgrounds are respected, and valued for who they are.
• You’ll receive benefits like paid vacation, personal insurance, and more. These vary by country and contract, but they’re worth asking about—we think they’re pretty great

The US base hourly range for this full-time position is $19.00 + bonus + benefits. There is a shift differential of +$1 per hour for 2nd shift. Our ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including role-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your location during the hiring process.