Production Associate

About Pankl Aerospace Systems Pankl Aerospace Systems is a leading manufacturer of high precision aerospace components serving commercial and defense aviation markets worldwide. We are committed to quality, innovation, and continuous improvement, while fostering a culture built on teamwork, respect, and employee growth. POSITION SUMMARY Are you mechanically inclined and looking to build a career in precision manufacturing? As a Production Associate, you will play a key role in performing manual operations across several critical production processes — including masking, cleaning, painting, curing, deburring, and polishing — critical to meet the targets, schedules, and quality standards handed down from the Production Manager and Production Supervisor. Working as part of a collaborative production team, you will follow detailed plan instructions, maintain strict safety and quality standards, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives. If you enjoy hands-on work, are eager to learn new processes, and thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, we encourage you to apply and become part of our team. KEY REQUIREMENTS  * High school diploma or equivalent * Minimum 1 year of manufacturing shop experience * Experience with painting and curing preferred * Mechanically inclined * Ability to learn and interpret blueprints and sketches * Ability to learn and interpret inspection checklists and required quality documentation * Basic math skills with the ability to progress to more complex calculations * Basic understanding of measurement units, including liquids * Fluent and effective in English written and verbal communication; bilingual in Spanish is a plus CORE RESPONSIBILITIES * Mask parts per plan instructions * Perform detailed cleaning for assembly and painting * Follow controlled curing processes per plan instructions * Deburr and polish components per planning instructions * Rework parts per engineering dispositions * Set up conventional lathes for OD/ID polishing operations * Read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operation and maintenance instructions, procedure instructions, complex blueprints, and work order documents * Follow PPE rules and policies, and HAZMAT rules, policies, and procedures * Know and execute PAS Management system procedures * Participate in the cause and corrective action process * Recommend process improvements and provide feedback on training * Travel occasionally for training and/or production support as necessary SOFT SKILLS * Team-oriented and able to work well in a collaborative environment * Reliable attendance and punctuality * Ability to work under pressure to meet schedules in a fast-paced environment * Willingness to work long hours and weekends as needed * Ability to learn new processes, techniques, and measurement tools quickly * Self-motivated with a strong safety mindset and a positive, “can-do” attitude PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS * Frequent use of hands and arms * Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks * Occasional lifting up to 10 pounds * Strong visual acuity and depth perception * Ability to work in a manufacturing environment with moderate noise levels Why Join Pankl? At Pankl, your work makes a difference. We invest in our employees through competitive pay, career development opportunities, advanced manufacturing technology, and a supportive work environment focused on safety and success. Benefits & Perks * Competitive compensation * Career growth and advancement opportunities * Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage * Company-paid and optional life insurance * HRA and voluntary Aflac plans * 401(k) with company match * Employee referral bonus program * Shift premiums * Paid time off and holidays * Paid meal periods * Safety boot and safety glasses reimbursement * Employee training and development programs Export Compliance Requirement To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. 1st Shift: 5am-1pm 2nd Shift: 1pm-9pm