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Assembly Associate Jobs in Kearney, NE (NOW HIRING)

Assembly Trainee

Kearney, NE · On-site

$13.75 - $16/hr

Performs various assigned duties in production operations which may include basic assembly, material transport, paint, or machine operation as directed by supervision. Essential Duties and ...

Assembly Associate information

See Kearney, NE salary details

$9

$15

$19

How much do assembly associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for assembly associate in Kearney, NE is $15.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assembly associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assembly Associate, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand tools, power tools, and manufacturing systems such as assembly line machinery or inventory tracking software is important. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in collaborative and deadline-driven environments. These skills ensure efficient, accurate assembly work and contribute to overall production quality and safety.

What are some common challenges assembly associates face when working on a fast-paced production line?

Assembly Associates often work in environments where meeting production targets and maintaining product quality are essential. Common challenges include adapting to repetitive tasks, handling time-sensitive demands, and quickly resolving minor equipment or component issues. Successful associates develop strong attention to detail and the ability to collaborate effectively with teammates and supervisors to ensure smooth workflow and minimal downtime. Being proactive in communicating concerns or bottlenecks also helps maintain efficiency and product standards.

What is an assembly associate?

Assembly Associates are workers responsible for putting together products or components on a production line, often in manufacturing or warehouse environments. Their duties can include reading blueprints, using hand or power tools, inspecting finished parts, and ensuring products meet quality standards. Assembly Associates play a crucial role in keeping production moving efficiently and safely. They typically work as part of a team and may be required to stand for long periods and perform repetitive tasks. Attention to detail and manual dexterity are important skills for this position.

What is the difference between Assembly Associate vs Production Worker?

AspectAssembly AssociateProduction Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require basic technical skillsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may need specific certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or assembly lines, often repetitive tasksFactory floors, operating machinery or handling materials
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, electronics, automotive industriesUsed across various manufacturing sectors including automotive, consumer goods

Assembly Associates focus on assembling products or components, often working on specific parts of a product line. Production Workers have a broader role in manufacturing, including operating machinery and managing overall production processes. Both roles require similar skills and are essential in manufacturing environments, but Assembly Associates typically specialize in assembly tasks.

What cities near Kearney, NE are hiring for Assembly Associate jobs? Cities near Kearney, NE with the most Assembly Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Assembly Associate job openings in Kearney, NE as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,256 per year, or $16 per hour.

$13.75 - $16/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Chief Industries rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Performs various assigned duties in production operations which may include basic assembly, material transport, paint, or machine operation as directed by supervision.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Performs various assigned duties in production operations which may include basic assembly, material transport, paint, or machine operation as directed.
  • Utilizes hand and power tools to assemble, wire, and install components and assemblies according to blueprints, schematics, wiring diagrams, and standard operating procedures.
  • Responsible for inventory control of component parts and assemblies.
  • Assures proper care of equipment is maintained and reports any concerns to supervision.
  • Uses hoists, cranes, forklifts, and other equipment to move materials as needed.

Education:
  • High School Diploma, or GED, preferred.

The Company:
Putting the needs of customers first has taken Chief Industries, Inc. from a small construction company in 1954, to a highly diverse company with a reputation for manufacturing quality products and offering unparalleled customer service. Through its many divisions and subsidiaries, Chief Industries employs over 1,400 skilled and dedicated employees who produce a wide variety of products, many of which are used around the world.
A Brand of Chief Industries, Chief Agri originated in 1961 and offers a full line of aeration and material handling products to help grain producers minimize storage costs and maximize the selling price of their commodities. Manufactured to exacting standards using heavy-duty materials and innovative designs, Chief grain conditioning, handling, and storage systems are sold throughout the world and have a reputation for providing many long years of dependable service.
Our Benefits:
This full-time position is eligible for full company benefits, including
  • Paid vacation/time off
  • 401(k) retirement plan plus company match
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Company-paid short-term disability benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Financial wellness coaching
  • Employee assistance program
  • Paid holidays (8)
  • Employee discounts
  • Education assistance
  • And much more.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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