Footwear Production Associate

Description

Primary Role
The Footwear Production Associate is responsible for performing a wide range of tasks related to the manufacturing of Origin® footwear and leather goods. This includes material preparation, stitching, assembly, adhesive application, finishing, and quality control. Associates are expected to be flexible, detail-oriented, and capable of rotating across various workstations as needed to meet production goals and maintain quality standards.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities
Material Prep & Cutting

Select appropriate materials and cut boot parts to specifications.

Split, skive, emboss, and kit boot components in preparation for production.

Stitching & Assembly

Construct boot uppers using industrial stitching equipment (Stitcher I, II, III).

Stitch midsoles to uppers (Blake Stitch).

Stitch welts and outstitch to completed uppers (GIS, Outstitch).

Perform detailed handwork to prepare boots for midsole application.

Lasting & Adhesive Work

Execute lasting procedures including First Pull and Second Pull steps.

Apply adhesive for midsoles and soles.

Press midsoles and soles onto boots; grind to shape using Silpar and other tools.

Finishing

Sand soles (scouring) to achieve final shape and appearance.

Conduct quality checks, perform minor repairs, and box products for fulfillment.

Accessories & Leather Goods

Construct additional Origin leather products such as belts, wallets, and gear using stitching, cutting, and assembly techniques.

Support Roles

Maintenance Trainee: Assist maintenance staff with routine tasks and develop technical skills related to machinery, safety, and factory infrastructure.

Maintenance (if promoted): Perform equipment repairs, maintain machinery, construct safety guards, troubleshoot mechanical/electrical issues, and contribute to overall plant safety.

Cross-Functional Responsibilities

Participate in cross-training to support other departments as needed.

Follow daily work assignments provided by the Team Lead.

Communicate effectively with supervisors and peers to ensure smooth workflow.

Maintain clean and safe work areas at all times.

Work Location and Schedule

On-Site

Day shift, 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Monday to Thursday

Pay: $17.50/hr.

Benefits

401(k)

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Vision insurance

Paid time off

Paid Holidays

Employee Assistance Program

Employee Discount

Job Type
Full-time

Experience

Manufacturing: 1 year (Preferred)

Assembly: 1 year (Preferred)

Ability to Commute

Farmington, ME 04938 (Required)

Work Location
In person

Requirements
Qualifications and Skills

High School Diploma or GED Equivalent

Cross-Functional Responsibilities:

Participate in cross-training to support other departments as needed.

Follow daily work assignments provided by the Team Lead.

Communicate effectively with supervisors and peers to ensure smooth workflow.

Maintain clean and safe work areas at all times.

Physical Requirements
This position involves frequent physical activity in a manufacturing environment. Employees are cross-trained and expected to perform a variety of production tasks, which may change based on operational needs. The following physical demands reflect essential functions of the role:

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds independently

Ability to stand for extended periods, up to 10 hours per shift

Frequent bending, squatting, twisting, and overhead/waist-level reaching

Repetitive use of hands, wrists, and fingers for tasks such as sewing, assembly, or material handling

Occasional pushing/pulling of carts or equipment with up to 25 pounds of resistance

Adequate manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination to operate machinery and handle small components

Ability to walk between workstations, production zones, or storage areas

Visual acuity to inspect products for quality and compliance

Hearing ability to respond to instructions and audible safety alerts

These requirements reflect tasks an employee may be asked to perform at any time due to our cross-training model. Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws.

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