Manufacturing Associate (1st Shift)

Founded in 1955, Kalwall has set the standard for diffuse natural lighting for more than 70 years. While our technologies have evolved since the invention of the translucent sandwich panel that established Kalwall as an industry pioneer, the beauty, efficiency, and durability of our composite daylighting systems remain unmatched. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship, custom solutions, and innovation continues to guide everything we do, helping us deliver exceptional products while creating opportunities for our employees to grow and make an impact.

On July 1, 2026, Kalwall became part of Apogee Enterprises, opening an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation.

Kalwall has immediate openings at its Manufacturing facility in Manchester.

We welcome applications from all skills levels. If you are considering a manufacturing career with growth potential, this would be a great opportunity! If you love to work with your hands to build and create consider applying today to work in our diverse environment.

The Manufacturing Associate will be matched with a position in assembly, machine operation, or material handling, but will the opportunity to work in multiple departments and perform various tasks as business needs change. The ideal candidate is safety and quality focused, mechanically inclined, and committed to supporting team production goals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform assembly, production, fabrication, packaging, and material handling activities as assigned.

• Operate manufacturing equipment and machinery in accordance with established procedures and safety requirements.

• Use hand tools, power tools, measuring devices, and other production equipment safely and effectively.

• Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, specifications, and production instructions.

• Inspect materials, components, and finished products throughout the manufacturing process to ensure quality standards are met.

• Identify and report quality concerns, production issues, or equipment malfunctions to management.

• Move, stage, and transport materials throughout the facility.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area in accordance with company policies and safety standards.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives to improve safety, quality, delivery, and productivity.

• Cross train and work in different roles, departments, and workstations as needed to support business operations.

• Follow all company policies, procedures, quality standards, and safety regulations.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent experience.

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, drawings, and work instructions.

• Experience using hand tools and power tools.

• Ability to perform basic measurements and inspections using gauges, rulers, calipers, or similar tools.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Flexibility to perform a variety of manufacturing, assembly, machine operation, and material handling tasks.

• Strong attendance, reliability, and work ethic.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous manufacturing, production, assembly, or warehouse experience.

• Forklift certification or prior forklift operating experience.

• Experience operating production equipment, machinery, or automated systems.

• Knowledge of quality inspection processes and manufacturing best practices.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to regularly stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and perform repetitive motions throughout the workday.

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds on a regular basis with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Ability to work safely around moving machinery and equipment.

• Ability to use hands and fingers to operate tools, machinery, and measuring equipment.

• Ability to work overtime as needed.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing and production facility environment.

• Exposure to noise, moving mechanical equipment, and varying temperatures.

• Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as designated by company policy.

Our Benefits

We care about and invest in our employees. We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their well-being and foster professional development. Here is a glimpse of what you can look forward to if you join our team.

• Competitive Benefits Package for employees and their dependents (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability)

• Incentive Plans

• 401(k) with employer contribution and match

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan with employer match

• Paid Time Off (Vacation and Sick Time)

• Paid Holidays

• Tuition Reimbursement Program

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Wellness Program

• Training and Career Progression

Apogee and our brands are an Equal Opportunity Employer.