Entry Level Production Associate Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Production Team Member I – Ice Cream Manufacturing 

Full-Time | Hourly (Non-Exempt) $17.29 - $18.45 

Salt & Straw is looking for Production Associates to support our Central Kitchen of Oregon (CKOR) production facility located in Portland’s Central Eastside. 
The Production Associate is an entry-level role on the Spin team responsible for helping produce and package premium, high-quality ice cream products efficiently and accurately. This role plays a key part in keeping production moving by operating the production line, packaging finished goods, and supporting the movement of products throughout the manufacturing process. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work in a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. 

What Salt & Straw Production Associates Do 

• Operate the production line and support production flow including filling tubs, packaging pints, and assembling 8-pack cases 

• Accurately and efficiently package finished goods including tubs, pints, and 8-pack cases 

• Move finished goods to designated staging and freezer locations 

• Monitor product quality through weight checks, fill level verification, visual inspections, and packaging checks 

• Follow all food safety, GMP, sanitation, and workplace safety policies 

• Promptly escalate production or quality concerns to the Spin Lead and/or Spin Supervisor 

• Follow direction from senior team members to support daily production goals 

• Support Operator 2 team members by preparing and loading raw materials, packaging materials, and sub-assembly ingredients into machinery 

This Role Might Be Right If You: 

• Have prior experience working in commercial food preparation, manufacturing, production, or warehouse environments 

• Are comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment 

• Have strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions 

• Communicate effectively and work well within a team environment 

• Have basic problem-solving skills and willingness to ask questions when needed 

• Are reliable, consistent, and able to follow safety and sanitation standards 

• Are comfortable operating basic commercial kitchen or production equipment 

• Are comfortable working around food allergens and within refrigerated/freezer environments 

• Are comfortable standing for extended periods and performing repetitive motions 

• Are available to work weekends and holidays as needed 

What You’ll Get 

Everyday Pay: Optional access to earned wages before payday for added financial flexibility. 

401(k) with Company Match: Eligible after 3 months of service, with automatic enrollment and a 50% company match on deferrals, up to 1% of pay. 

Paid Time Off: Accrues starting at approximately 2 weeks per year, increasing with tenure. 

Sick Leave: Forty hours provided after 30 days of employment plus ongoing accrual based on hours worked. 

Paid Holidays: Twelve paid holidays annually. 

Medical/Dental/Vision Coverage: Available beginning the first of the month following your start date. 

Career Development & Tuition Assistance: Career growth opportunities and up to $1,800/year in education reimbursement for eligible programs. 

Team Member Discount: Enjoy a 30% discount on our handmade ice cream and merchandise. 

Additional Voluntary Benefits: Including accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, commuter benefits, and pet insurance.

Wage Transparency 

The anticipated hiring range for this position is $17.29-$18.45. The broader compensation range of $17.29-$21.14 reflects future earning growth within the role over time 

Important Notes 

• Food Allergy Warning: This role involves working in an environment where common food allergens (peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs, soy, wheat, seafood) are present. 

• Equal Employment Opportunity: Salt & Straw is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and provides equal opportunity to all applicants, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or background. 

• E-Verify Participation: We participate in E-Verify to confirm work authorization. 

Our Values

Create the Unbelievable 

Show Up Generously 

Act with Thoughtful Curiosity 

Share Human Kindness 

Make It Count 

These values are the sprinkles on top, guiding us to create happiness through moments of wonder in every scoop, smile, and shared moment. They form the foundation of our brand and shape the culture of our workplace.