Manufacturing Assistant Jobs in Cleveland, TN (NOW HIRING)

Description
BUILT TO CONNECT
At Astec, we believe in the power of connection and the importance of building long-lasting relationships with our employees, customers and the communities we call home. With a team more than 4,000 strong, our employees are our #1 advantage. We invest in skills training and provide opportunities for career development to help you grow along with the business. We offer programs that support physical safety, as well as benefits and resources to enhance total health and wellbeing, so you can be your best at work and at home.
Our equipment is used to build the roads and infrastructure that connects us to each other and to the goods and services we use. We are an industry leader known for delivering innovative solutions that create value for our customers. As our industry evolves, we are using new technology and data like never before.
We're looking for creative problem solvers to build the future with us. Connect with us today and build your career at Astec.
LOCATION: Chattanooga, Tennessee
ABOUT THE POSITION
Primary Process Owner, who works closely with all aspects of Astec, Inc. operations (manufacturing, quality, OpEx and safety) to develop safe, efficient and reliable manufacturing methods. Identifies process improvement opportunities (productivity and reduce costs), allowing Astec to create a sustainable competitive advantage through the use of Kaizen, lean tools and methods. Leads cross functional events to analyze and deploy standards and techniques, to improve quality, ensure on-time delivery, control costs and/or other engineering/economic objectives; Applies visual and auditable, manufacturing best practices to solve problems, improve performance and productivity, while eliminating waste.
Deliverables & Responsibilities
• Support manufacturing process improvements through data collection, analysis assistance, and implementation follow-up under guidance.
• Assist with time studies, labor observations, workload balancing, and basic process mapping (VSM, spaghetti diagrams).
• Create, update, and maintain manufacturing process documentation including work instructions, SOPs, standard work, and visual aids.
• Support root cause investigations for safety, quality, delivery, and productivity issues using structured problem-solving tools.
• Assist with equipment trials, tooling changes, and process validations initiated by senior engineers or leadership.
• Support workforce utilization, material flow, and layout changes by gathering data and preparing analysis inputs.
• Participate in new product introductions (NPIs), pilot builds, and launch readiness activities as a supporting engineer.
• Help maintain accuracy of routings, MBOMs, labor standards, and other manufacturing system data.
• Use standard Lean tools under direction to support reductions in waste (scrap, rework, motion, waiting, etc.).
• Prepare basic reports, documentation, and presentations using Microsoft Office tools.
• Follow all company policies, procedures, and safety standards.
• Follows proper safety rules and procedures at all times.
• Perform special projects and other duties as assigned.
Knowledge and Skill Expectations
• Basic understanding of manufacturing processes, prints, and engineering documentation.
• Basic understanding of Lean concepts and structured problem solving.
• Able to use Excel and common business or engineering systems.
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn directly from the floor.
Behavioral Expectations
• Learns quickly and responds well to direction.
• Demonstrates ownership, follow-through, and responsiveness.
• Builds credibility with production and support teams.
To be successful in this role, your experience and competencies are:
• Bachelor's degree in industrial, manufacturing, mechanical engineering or related field required.
• Completes assigned work accurately, on time, and in accordance with standards.
• Produces clear, usable documentation that supports shop floor execution.
• Demonstrates growing understanding of manufacturing processes and heavy equipment production.
• Actively learns from operators, supervisors, and senior engineers.
• Contributes positively to team-based improvement efforts and Kaizen events.
• Builds credibility through responsiveness, attention to detail, and follow-through.
• Must be able to meet regular attendance requirements.
Our Culture and Values
Employees that become part of Astec embody the values below throughout their work.
• Continuous devotion to meeting the needs of our customers
• Honesty and integrity in all aspects of business
• Respect for all individuals
• Preserving entrepreneurial spirit and innovation
• Safety, quality and productivity as means to ensure success
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Manufacturing Environment
Shop manufacturing environment exposures include exposure to moving mechanical parts, machinery, tools and equipment, vibration, fumes or airborne particles, motorized vehicles, welding and machining operations, outside weather conditions and exposure to the risk of electric shock. The employee may occasionally be exposed to varying levels of dirt, dust, toxic or caustic chemicals, very warm and/or very chilly temperatures. The noise level in the shop can be very loud at times consistent with an industrial assembly facility and may require hearing protection. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Astec does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender (sex), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, citizenship status, a person's veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law or executive order.