Learning Associate Jobs in Columbia, IL (NOW HIRING)

Job Description:

Starting wage is based on experience and shift. In addition to a base wage, every associate is eligible for quarterly profit sharing!! Various shifts are available and off shifts include additional shift differential pay.

Job Description:

Starting wage is based on experience and shift. In addition to a base wage, every associate is eligible for quarterly profit sharing! Various shifts are available and off shifts include additional shift differential pay.

Join the team that is part of an American Tradition! Ruger Firearms is one of the nation's leading manufacturers of rugged, reliable firearms for the commercial sporting market. We are seeking driven, Production Associates to operate our manufacturing equipment to produce high quality components to support building American made firearms. This is an opportunity to grow your career on a dynamic, cross-trained team focused on your learning and development. Our associates will have the opportunity to receive benefits that include a 401k contribution, quarterly profit sharing*, medical, dental, vision, FSA, life insurance, short term and long-term disability coverage. The right candidate must possess a positive attitude and a strong ability to work with others to further the Company's core values of Integrity, Respect, Innovation and Teamwork.

Position Summary

A Production Associate is responsible for front-line production needs. The ideal candidate is dedicated, flexible, and eager to master new skills within a learning-focused manufacturing environment. Basic to complex machine operation is required. This may include the operation of injection molding equipment, furnaces, CNC and milling machines, finishing equipment, assembly work, and other duties as assigned. Visual alertness, hand dexterity and attention to detail are necessary.

The Ideal Candidate Profile

• Must be flexible and adaptable to changes in assignments and be willing to work overtime and an occasional Saturday, if required.
• Must possess good mechanical reasoning abilities
• Strong problem solving and communication skills
• Self-Motivated and capable of working independently
• Detail & Quality Oriented
• Strong Interpersonal Skills
• Ability to take direction

Essential Job Functions

• Equipment Changeovers: Conduct rapid and precise changeovers on metal injection molding (MIM) equipment to ensure continuous, efficient production.
• Machining & CNC Operations: Safely operate CNC turning and milling machines, managing parameters and monitoring outputs to produce components to exacting specifications.
• Finishing Operations: Operate finishing equipment to achieve desired surface appearance and prepare parts for final assembly.
• Quality Inspections: Conduct thorough quality inspections, utilizing measuring tools and visual alertness to identify defects and ensure compliance with strict design standards.
• Equipment PM & Lean Manufacturing: Perform routine equipment preventative maintenance (PM), participate in Daily Kaizen, and practice lean manufacturing principles to improve processes and eliminate waste.

Why Join Our Team? (Your Career Path)

• Career Advancement: This is more than a job; it is a path to grow your career. You will have opportunities for advancement as you develop new skills through our structured cross-training and meeting specified criteria according to our Ruger Associate Development (RAD) plan.
• Continuous Learning: Expand your manufacturing knowledge through on-the-job training, cross-training across multiple work cells, and educational programs like Ruger University.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous machine operator or high volume, medium mix manufacturing environment experience.
• High School Diploma, preferred, but is not required.
• Are you interested, but unsure if you meet the qualifications? We will provide on the job training for motivated candidates.

Physical Demands:

• Associates are frequently required to stand; walk; use hands and fingers, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The position can involve sitting, walking and lifting up to 40 pounds several times throughout the day.
• Job is performed standing all day.
• Job requires substantial movement/motion with regard to walking, bending, lifting, grasping and applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palms.

Requirements:

You must be a minimum of 18 years old, and able to pass both a background and drug screen.

This position offers an opportunity for growth once certain criteria have been met according to our Ruger Associate Development (RAD) plan.

*Quarterly profit sharing for associates is based on the Company's profits earned for the quarter. Visit our website at Ruger.com/investor relations to view earnings statements.

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BENEFITS OF A CAREER AT RUGER!

• Comprehensive Medical Plan
• Prescription Drug Coverage
• Dental Plans
• Vision Care Plan
• Life Insurance
• Supplemental Term Life
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with up to 4% Safe Harbor Company Match
• Additional 5% Supplemental 401(k) Company Contribution
• Paid Time Off
• Twelve Paid Company Holidays
• Short- & Long-Term Disability Plans
• Associate Discount Program
• Additional Outside Vendor Discounts
• Quarterly Profit Sharing for All Associates
• Additional Bonus Opportunities for Qualified Positions
• Travel Assistance
• Resource Advisor (EAP)