JOB DESCRIPTION
Production Associate
Location: Wichita, Kansas
Department: Manufacturing / Production
Primary Station: Finishing (station assignments may vary with the production plan)
Reports To: Production Supervisor
Supervises: None
Employing Entity: Open Road Brands LLC
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (hourly)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Travel: None
ABOUT OPEN ROAD BRANDS
Open Road Brands is a Wichita, Kansas–based lifestyle consumer products company specializing in distinctive home décor, wall art, and gift collections that celebrate Americana and pop culture. Our products are found in leading national retailers and specialty stores across the country, with domestic manufacturing and fulfillment proudly based in Wichita.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Production Associate works on the manufacturing floor with a primary assignment at the finishing station: completing the final stage of production with assigned tools and machinery - affixing hangers, shrink-wrapping finished goods, and preparing product for shipping and warehousing - so every piece leaves the floor retail-ready. Station assignments flex with the daily production plan.
This role suits someone dependable and detail-minded who takes pride in product quality, keeps their station to standard, and works well within a fast-moving production team. On-the-job training is provided.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Finishing Operations
- Use assigned tools to affix appropriate hangers to final products accurately and to standard.
- Operate the shrink-wrap machine to wrap finished products and prepare them for shipping or warehousing.
- Align and configure assigned tools and machinery for the day’s production.
Quality
- Inspect random production samples to evaluate quality; identify and report defects before product moves downstream.
- Ensure finished product meets quality standards and is packaged to protect it in handling and transit.
Supplies & Reporting
- Maintain inventory of supplies needed to finish products (hangers, wrap, packaging materials) and flag reorder needs before they interrupt production.
- Draft and submit daily production total reports.
Housekeeping, Equipment & Safety
- Maintain a clean, organized area around tools and machinery to 5S standard - tools put away at each shift.
- Report tool or equipment malfunctions to the supervisor immediately for proper handling.
- Follow all safety procedures, including proper use of PPE and safe machine operation.
Team Flexibility
- Flex to support other production stations and cross-train as assigned to meet the daily production plan.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Ability to operate - or quickly learn to operate - assigned tools and machines safely.
- Ability to follow verbal instructions and written SOPs.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Dependable attendance and the ability to work well in a team-based production environment.
Preferred
- Previous tool handling or manufacturing experience.
- Vocational or technical school training.
- Familiarity with 5S or lean practices.
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Attention to Detail & Product Pride
- Reliability & Work Ethic
- Safety Mindset
- Organization (5S)
- Team Collaboration & Flexibility
SUCCESS MEASURES
Success in this role will be measured by:
- Daily production totals against standard.
- Finishing quality: defect and rework rates attributable to hanger placement and wrapping.
- Quality inspection effectiveness (defects caught before moving downstream).
- Supply availability at the station (no production interruptions from stockouts).
- 5S audit results and safety record.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position works in a manufacturing environment and requires the ability to operate assigned tools and machines safely, stand for a full 8-hour shift, bend or kneel frequently, perform repetitive hand and arm motion, and lift up to 35 pounds unassisted. The production floor may include moderate noise, dust, and seasonal temperature variation; proper use of personal protective equipment is required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Open Road Brands is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned, at any time with or without notice.