Entry Level Production Operator Jobs in Minnesota

About Cretex Medical  

Cretex Medical is a leading contract manufacturer of precision components and assemblies for the medical device industry.  Our customers view us as a trusted partner in the areas of injection molding, laser processing, metal stamping and device assembly.  Learn more at www.cretexmedical.com. 

Position Summary:  

The Production Operator Assembler I is an entry-level role responsible for performing basic machine operation, inspection, assembly, packaging, and/or support tasks across multiple production areas. Employees in this role follow established procedures, work instructions, and quality standards to produce high-quality medical device components and products.

This positions shift schedule is Monday through Thursday 3pm to 1:30am

• Perform visual and/or dimensional inspection using microscopes, gauges, calipers, or other measurement tools, as required.
• Complete required documentation such as production records, quality checks, setup sheets, and history records.
• Handle and work with cleaning chemicals such as isopropyl alcohol, detergents, or solvents when needed.
• Maintain an organized, clean work area following 5S expectations.
• Participate in required training and company meetings.
• Read, understand, and follow work instructions, standard work, and applicable quality/ISO/cGMP requirements.
• Crosstrain across manufacturing areas.
• Support and comply with the Quality System, ISO, and medical device regulatory requirements.
• Communicate issues with materials, equipment, or processes promptly.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Assembly Responsibilities

• Inspect, assemble, and/or package components and medical devices per customer specifications.
• Operate hand tools and basic manual equipment used in the assembly process.
• Use sealing equipment such as tray, band, or impulse sealers.
• Perform labeling, packaging, and final presentation of product.

Production Operations Responsibilities

• Operate production equipment or machines per work instructions, ensuring correct materials, tooling, programs, and processes are used.
• Monitor production processes, part quality, and machine performance.
• Perform basic preventive or operator-level machine checks (e.g., cleanliness, safe operation).

Secondary Operations Responsibilities

• Perform secondary operations such as trimming, deburring, cleaning, laser marking, laser welding and/or finishing of components.
• Operate designated secondary equipment or simple mechanical devices.
• Inspect and verify part conformance after secondary operations.
• Use basic measurement tools to ensure accuracy (gauge pins, calipers, tape measures).

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to read, write, and follow written instructions in English.
• Perform basic math, hand-eye coordination, and dexterity.
• Ability to use basic hand tools and measurement equipment.
• Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced team environment and handle multiple tasks.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Desireable Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 6+ months of manufacturing, assembly, machine operation, or cleanroom experience.
• Familiarity with FDA, ISO, cGMP, Lean manufacturing, or workplace safety practices.
• Experience working with microscopes or inspection tools.

What is it like to work at Cretex Medical?  

We recognize the contribution of every individual and promote growth, safety and security for all our employees. Cretex Medical values performance and pays competitive wages along with a rich benefit package. We offer a positive work environment with a focus on continuous improvement.  

Here are some of things that employees have said about working for Cretex Medical:  

• "The culture at Cretex is collaborative. Everyone here is willing to help you whether it is a director, a machinist, or your boss. Everyone is always willing to help you figure out a project and get it done right." 
• "I would tell potential interns that Cretex is a great company to work for. It has set a high bar for corporate culture as well as the quality of work you can do. I would definitely recommend it." 
• "I learned that I really like the medical device industry. The importance and the gravity of what we do here is felt by the employees. You can have that passion in your work because you know what you are striving for is to save lives." 

We encourage you to explore the many opportunities Cretex Medical can offer you as a valued team member. 

This pay range reflects the base hourly rate or annual salary for positions within this job grade, based on our market-based pay structures. Actual compensation will depend on factors such as skills, relevant experience, education, internal equity, business needs, and local market conditions. While the full hiring range is shared for transparency, offers are rarely made at the minimum or maximum of the range.

Pay Ranges:

• Produciton Operator I:  $18.00-20.00
• Production Operator II:  $19.00-22.00

All Employees:

Our 401k retirement savings plan with a company match contribution; onsite health clinics, discretionary holiday bonus program (based on years of service), Cretex University, 24/7 employee assistance program with access to five confidential visits with a licensed counselor at no cost, wellness program with incentives, an employee death benefit, and employee sick and safe leave are available to all Cretex employees. 

20+hours:

Cretex's medical benefit package includes: comprehensive medical insurance with access to virtual providers; dental insurance (Little Partners Dental benefit covers services 100 percent for children 12 and younger when seen by a Health Partners in network provider); vision insurance; a pre-tax health savings account, healthcare and dependent care pre-tax reimbursement accounts; paid holidays, paid time off; and our discretionary profit sharing program are available to employees working 20+ hours/week. 

30+ hours:

Parental Leave, accident and critical illness benefits, optional employee, spouse, and child life; short and long term disability; company provided life insurance; and tuition assistance programs are available to employees working 30+ hours per week. 

(Some benefits are subject to eligibility criteria.)

Applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, family status, status with regard to public assistance, or any other protected status as required by law.  

Our company uses E-Verify to confirm the employment and eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.