The Production Support Specialist supports daily manufacturing operations by performing part preparation, finishing, additive manufacturing operations, and general production assistance tasks. This role focuses on executing defined support activities that enable Assemblers, Technicians, and Machinists to perform primary build, integration, and testing work efficiently and safely. 

 

The Production Support Specialist does not own product builds, system troubleshooting, or programming activities, but plays a critical role in maintaining production flow and shop readiness. 

 

This role involves working closely with engineers, production technicians, and operations teams to support multiple programs and value streams. 

 

Key Responsibilities:  

General Manufacturing Support 

• Assist production teams with miscellaneous shop tasks as assigned 

• Support rework, teardown, and prototype activities under supervision and defined instructions 

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment 

• Follow all safety, quality, and compliance requirements, including AS9100, ESD, FOD, and ITAR where applicable 

Part Finishing & Preparation 

• Perform part finishing operations including deburring, sanding, filing, cleaning, and surface preparation on metallic, composite, and additively manufactured components 

• Remove support structures from 3D printed parts using approved tools and processes 

• Perform visual inspections for obvious defects and escalate nonconformances per established procedures 

Additive Manufacturing Operations (Non-Programming) 

• Operate 3D printers in accordance with established work instructions and build travelers 

• Load and unload print materials and consumables 

• Remove printed parts, perform post-processing, and stage parts for downstream operations 

• Perform basic equipment checks and report printer issues to engineering or maintenance 

Production Support & Kitting 

• Kit hardware, consumables, and components to support production builds and development activities 

• Stage materials and assemblies to support efficient production flow 

• Label, move, and track parts in accordance with inventory and traceability requirements 

• Support inventory organization, point-of-use storage, and 5S initiatives 

Qualifications:  

• High school diploma or equivalent 

• 0–3 years of experience in a manufacturing, fabrication, or production environment 

• Ability to follow written work instructions, travelers, and standard operating procedures 

• Comfort using hand tools, basic power tools, and shop equipment 

• Strong attention to detail and reliability in executing repetitive or varied tasks 

• Ability to stand, lift, and work in a production environment 

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience in aerospace, defense, automotive, or other high-mix manufacturing environments 

• Exposure to additive manufacturing, composites, or mechanical part preparation 

• Familiarity with Lean manufacturing concepts or 5S practices