Production Operator Trainee (Layup Operator)

Job Title: Layup Operator Trainee (Production Operator) Job Description The Layup Operator Trainee supports manufacturing operations by learning to operate production machinery, handle materials safely, and inspect finished products to meet quality standards. This entry-level role offers hands-on training in machine operation, forklift driving, respirator use, and plastics and aerospace-related manufacturing processes. Responsibilities • Operate manufacturing machinery under supervision and follow established operating procedures. • Assist with machine setup, adjustments, and basic troubleshooting to maintain smooth production. • Handle raw materials and finished products safely, including loading, unloading, and staging materials for production. • Perform material handling tasks such as moving pallets, containers, and components throughout the manufacturing area. • Inspect finished materials and products for quality, accuracy, and defects according to inspection guidelines. • Document inspection findings and communicate any nonconformances or issues to the appropriate team members. • Operate a forklift to transport materials and products within the facility, following all safety protocols. • Use a respirator and related protective equipment as required for specific processes or materials. • Support compounding and plastics manufacturing activities as directed, ensuring consistency and quality of materials. • Follow all safety procedures and use personal protective equipment to maintain a safe work environment. • Keep work areas clean, organized, and compliant with manufacturing and safety standards. • Participate in all required training for machinery, forklift operation, respirator use, and manufacturing processes. • Work collaboratively with production and quality teams to meet production schedules and quality targets. Essential Skills • Ability to operate manufacturing machinery with training and supervision. • Capability to perform material handling tasks, including lifting, moving, and staging materials safely. • Basic understanding of or interest in machine operation and production processes. • Ability to inspect finished materials and products with attention to detail and accuracy. • Willingness and ability to operate a forklift after receiving proper training and certification. • Willingness to use a respirator and follow all related safety procedures. • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and adhere to standard operating procedures. • Strong focus on safety and adherence to manufacturing safety guidelines. • Reliability and consistency in attendance and performance in a manufacturing environment. Additional Skills & Qualifications • Experience or familiarity with plastics manufacturing is beneficial. • Experience or interest in aerospace-related manufacturing processes is an advantage. • Experience as a compounder or working with compounding processes is a plus. • Prior experience in manufacturing, machine operation, or materials handling is helpful but not required, as training is provided. • Comfort working with industrial equipment and learning new machinery and tools. Why Work Here? You join a stable manufacturing organization known for its strong reputation and commitment to quality. The company offers medical and vision benefits through recognized providers and supports employees with training on all machinery, forklifts, and respirator use. You benefit from a structured learning environment, opportunities to build skills in plastics and aerospace-related manufacturing, and the chance to grow your career in a hands-on production setting. Work Environment The role is based in a manufacturing environment that involves working around production machinery, compounding processes, and plastics manufacturing operations. You work on the production floor, handling materials, operating machines, and using forklifts as needed. The environment emphasizes safety, including the use of personal protective equipment such as respirators when required. You can expect a structured, process-driven setting with clear procedures and guidelines to support safe and efficient operations. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of El Monte, CA. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $22.15 - $22.15/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in El Monte,CA. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Aug 13, 2026. About Aerotek Aerotek® Inc. provides staffing and services solutions in manufacturing, logistics, construction, aviation, facilities and maintenance. We provide the expertise, solutions and people required to rise to the challenges of North American industry. Headquartered in Hanover, Md., Aerotek operates a unified network of over 200 offices across North America, supporting more than 18,000 clients each year. Aerotek is an Allegis Group company, the global leader in workforce and business solutions. To learn more, visit: Aerotek.com | 1-888-AEROTEK. Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.