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Manufacturing Production Operative Jobs in Washington, DC

Production Team Member

Washington, DC · On-site

$15 - $18.50/hr

Overview A Production Team Member is generally responsible for producing donuts and bakery products ... Manufacturing Practices Many Dunkin' restaurants are owned and operated by an independent ...

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Manufacturing Production Operative information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$19

$25

How much do manufacturing production operative jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for manufacturing production operative in Washington, DC is $19.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing production operative?

A Manufacturing Production Operative is a worker responsible for operating machinery, assembling products, and ensuring production processes run smoothly in a factory or manufacturing environment. Their duties often include monitoring equipment, following safety procedures, and maintaining quality standards. These operatives play a crucial role in keeping production lines efficient and meeting output targets. No formal qualifications are usually required, but attention to detail and the ability to work well in a team are important. Training is often provided on the job.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manufacturing production operative?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Production Operative, you need attention to detail, manual dexterity, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with manufacturing machinery, safety protocols, and quality control systems is typically required, and some positions may prefer candidates with forklift or OSHA certifications. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production processes, ensuring workplace safety, and delivering consistent product quality.

What are some common challenges faced by manufacturing production operatives, and how can they be addressed?

Manufacturing Production Operatives often face challenges such as maintaining consistent quality during fast-paced production runs and adapting to new machinery or processes. Staying vigilant about safety protocols and communicating effectively with team members can help manage these challenges. Regular training sessions and a supportive team environment also play a key role in ensuring operatives can quickly adapt to changes and troubleshoot issues efficiently.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Production Operative vs Manufacturing Assembly Worker?

AspectManufacturing Production OperativeManufacturing Assembly Worker
CredentialsBasic training, health & safety certificationsBasic training, health & safety certifications
Work EnvironmentFactory floor, production linesFactory floor, assembly lines
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing plantsCommonly used in manufacturing plants
Job FocusOperating machinery, quality checksAssembling components, following instructions

Both roles are essential in manufacturing, often overlapping in work environment and required skills. The Manufacturing Production Operative typically involves operating machinery and quality control, while the Manufacturing Assembly Worker focuses on assembling parts. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right role suited to their skills and career goals.

What are popular job titles related to Manufacturing Production Operative jobs in Washington, DC?

For Manufacturing Production Operative jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Manufacturing Production Operative jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Manufacturing Production Operative jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Manufacturing Production Operative job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,636 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Manufacturing Operations Manager 1 - 2nd Shift

Northrop Grumman Corp. (JP)

Elkridge, MD • On-site

$105 - $158/hr

Other

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

89th of 542 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available

CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No

CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret

TRAVEL: No

Description

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. We have a wide portfolio of secure, affordable, integrated, and multi-domain systems and technologies. Our differentiated battle management and cyber solutions deliver timely, mission-enabling information and provide superior situational awareness and understanding to protect the U.S. and its global allies.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems (NGMS) is seeking a 2nd Shift Manufacturing Operations Manager 1 to join our Troy Hill Operations Team of dedicated, diverse individuals. This role will lead a cross-functional group of employees supporting manufacturing, test, production, shipping, and quality inspection activities at our Elkridge, MD facility.

In this role, you will oversee and manage the daily operational aspects of one or more manufacturing/production areas, with responsibility for employee safety, delivering quality products on time and within customer cost targets, and driving continuous improvement. You will provide day-to-day leadership across production, operations, engineering, test, shipping, and quality functions within your area. You will directly supervise a team of non-represented employees, manage work assignments and schedules, monitor cost and schedule performance for your work unit, assess issues, and implement mitigation actions to meet productivity, quality, cost, and delivery goals.

What You’ll Get to Do
  • Oversee daily operations across production, mechanical assembly, integration, test, shipping, and associated quality activities to support new production, sustainment spares, and returned material for repair (RMR)
  • Directly supervise approximately 5-10 non-represented employees (up to ~15 across one/split shift), including assigning work, setting daily priorities, managing schedules, monitoring workflow, and supporting operating cost targets
  • Provide clear directions and coaching to your team using established procedures and precedents; assignments are received in task-oriented terms, and your work is reviewed for adequacy in meeting objectives
  • Monitor work in process, material and tooling availability, and shipping readiness, identifying and resolving day to day operational and quality issues to ensure personnel, equipment, materials, and services are available as needed
  • Execute and support production and shipping schedules in coordination with Material Requirements Planning, Production Control, Quality, Supply Chain, and Engineering to meet internal and external customer delivery requirements
  • Track and act on key performance indicators (KPIs) for your area (safety, quality, delivery, productivity, 5S/housekeeping), using data to maintain process control and drive continuous improvement
  • Coordinate interdepartmental activities daily with operations, quality assurance, production control, supply chain, engineering, inventory control, shipping/receiving, and transportation; most liaison is internal with subordinates and peer/next level leaders
  • Support program and project performance by providing accurate status on cost, schedule, and technical performance for your work unit; identify risks and develop mitigation actions to maintain productivity, quality, cost, and delivery objectives
  • Support staffing, onboarding, training, and engagement for your team, providing performance feedback and helping employees build skills and reach their potential
  • Support process development, continuous improvement events, capacity planning, capital and facility planning, annual budget inputs, monthly cost performance reviews, manpower planning, and all ISO9001, AS9100, and other auditable processes by providing floor level input and executing approved plans
  • Participate in first time manufacturing builds, helping establish workspace layouts, process flows, work instructions, and personnel responsibilities across production, quality, and test
  • Work hands on and monitor daily operations, actively assisting or directing subordinates as needed to resolve issues and ensure smooth workflow
  • Manage the use of consumables and indirect materials in your area to meet budget and cost targets
  • Serve as point of contact for equipment calibration activities in your area, ensuring compliance with calibration and documentation requirements
  • Ensure compliance with applicable Northrop Grumman procedures and requirements for manufacturing and test environments
  • Ensure equipment and machinery are maintained in accordance with preventative maintenance schedules for each assigned area, coordinating with maintenance and facilities as required
  • Promote and support career development for employees, including training and educational opportunities for highly motivated individuals
  • Operate effectively in a fast-paced environment with high expectations, diverse assignments, and collaborative/team settings across all levels of the organization
  • Be accountable for safety, quality, delivery, employee engagement, and cost performance for your assigned products and operations, supporting overall [Product Area] program commitments
  • Support ISO, LEAN, and world class manufacturing practices, including participation in continuous improvement and problem-solving activities
  • Document and help standardize tasks and processes to drive repeatability, training effectiveness, and adherence to established procedures
  • Implement local process improvements that enhance affordability, quality, and schedule performance within your operations
  • Perform required GOLDesp and SAP/MES transactions to manage work orders, material flow, and personnel assignments
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment across production, shipping, quality, manufacturing, and test areas, promptly addressing hazards and reinforcing safe work practices
Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree with 5 years of Manufacturing Operations experience; Master's Degree with 3 years of Manufacturing Operations experience; 9 years of Manufacturing Operations experience may be considered in lieu of degree requirement
  • Experience mentoring, leading, and/or coaching people and/or teams
  • Experience in developing cross discipline partnership and collaboration within a diverse team
  • Experience using MS Office tools - Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Secret Security Clearance
  • U.S. Citizenship required
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Active/Current U.S. Government Secret Security Clearance
  • Advanced degree in a STEM Field or management discipline
  • Experience in both production and sustainment work environments
  • Lean manufacturing and process improvement implementation experience
  • Agile manufacturing environment experience
  • Experience managing department budgets
  • Experience in a DoD regulated environment
  • Experience in SAP (MES) (or related) and GOLD system knowledge
  • Experience with production control and manufacturing processes
  • Operational and sustainment repair support/repair depot experience
  • Excellent verbal communication skills with Technician staff, Manufacturing support personnel, Functional management, Program management and related groups

Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment which encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.

Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off and Additional Benefits including Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!

#MPR

Primary Level Salary Range: $105,000.00 - $157,600.00

The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.

Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Job Category: Manufacturing and Production

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939