Machine Operator I $23.20/hr. + $2/hr shift differential

About the Role

The Packaging Machine Operator I ensures the safe and efficient operation of packaging equipment, prioritizing food quality and safety. This role is responsible for all aspects of the packaging line's performance, including maximizing operating performance, uptime, waste reduction, quality, and productivity. This involves troubleshooting, predictive maintenance, and minor repairs.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and validate up to two packaging processes: horizontal pouch, horizontal carton, vertical pouch, or robot process.
• Set up and adjust packaging machines.
• Monitor and analyze machine operation to detect and correct minor mechanical issues, minimizing downtime.
• Complete minor machine repairs and adjustments.
• Perform routine maintenance, including cleaning and inspection.
• Communicate machine status and issues to maintenance, leads, and other operators to prevent downtime.
• Collaborate with Operator Helpers to ensure line efficiency, consistent material replenishment, and a clean, safe work environment.
• Operate a forklift as needed.
• Inspect packaged products for quality standards.
• Conduct and document regular equipment checks for quality and food safety.
• Troubleshoot and resolve quality defects, reporting any quality events or defects to the Supervisor.
• Work with Sanitation and Quality teams to complete line changeovers, including disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly.
• Ensure the line and materials meet specifications for the next production run.
• Adhere strictly to all Safety & Food Safety/Quality policies and procedures.
• Report Safety & Food Safety/Quality incidents and participate in Root Cause Analysis (RCA).
• Actively identify and report potential Safety & Food Safety/Quality risks.
• Complete all assigned training by the due date.
• Maintain accurate inventory reporting in the ERP system.
• Compare physical inventory against ERP inventory for accuracy, submitting corrections as needed.
• Ensure products consumed on the line meet requirements for accurate and safe consumption.
• Utilize Microsoft Windows (computer) and Apple (iPad) operating systems for reporting, documentation, and communication.
• Use the operations mobile platform to monitor and document overall equipment efficiency and quality datasheets.
• Access product specifications and other platforms as needed.
• Train new employees on standard practices and complete their training logs.
• Train Operator Helpers to develop skills and act as backup during breaks.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• English or Spanish language proficiency.
• Ability to use Microsoft applications and Redzone (Apple) software.
• Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Windows and Apple (iPad) operating systems.
• Experience with operations mobile platforms.
• Basic understanding of predictive maintenance.
• Ability to perform routine maintenance and minor adjustments on machinery.
• Ability to troubleshoot common issues.
• Proficiency in using tools and/or measuring devices in US or Metric units.

Qualifications

• Education and/or Experience: Previous experience in packaging operations or similar equipment is preferred.
• Technical Skills:
• Forklift certification, SQF training, and LOTO training are preferred.
• Language Skills: Ability to read, comprehend, and compose simple to complex instructions, policies, procedures, and correspondence in English or Spanish.
• Computer Skills: Able to use Microsoft applications and Redzone (Apple) software.
• Reasoning Ability:
• Demonstrates self-confidence and maturity to make decisions and solve problems with minimal direction.
• Possesses analytical, quantitative, communication, problem-solving, and technical skills.
• Ability to creatively apply experience and common sense to processes.
• Interpersonal Skills: Clearly communicate with Operator Helpers, leadership, and co-workers in a professional manner.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Located in a food processing facility.
• Frequently exposed to hot, dusty conditions and moving mechanical parts.
• Must be able to work rotating shifts, including weekends.
• Ability to perform heavy lifting up to 50 lbs. on a regular basis.
• Must be able to stand and walk on concrete floors for extended periods.
• Must be able to use stairs consistently throughout the shift.
• Requires repetitive motion (hand, arm, and shoulder movement).
• Must be able to drive a powered industrial vehicle.