Automation Operator

The Automation Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and optimizing automated packaging systems within a fast-paced lettuce production environment. This role ensures efficient product flow from harvest to finished goods by managing equipment and maintaining production efficiency, product quality, and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Equipment Operation & Production Flow
  • Set up, monitor, and operate automated packaging equipment, including Ishida multiheaded weighers, conveyors, baggers, sealers, labelers, robotic case packers, and robotic palletizers.
  • Manage the steady flow of harvested lettuce through conveyor belts and scales into finished goods.
  • Perform equipment changeovers and adjust parameters to optimize throughput, yield, and case configuration.
  • Enter and maintain daily production data, write basic reports, and lead or attend daily shift huddles.
• Troubleshooting & Maintenance Support
  • Respond quickly to equipment alarms, faults, jams, and stoppages to minimize downtime.
  • Diagnose and troubleshoot basic mechanical, pneumatic, and automation-related issues; assist Maintenance Technicians during advanced repairs and preventive maintenance.
  • Conduct routine inspections of equipment to identify potential issues before failure.
• Quality, Food Safety & Sanitation
  • Verify product weights, labeling accuracy, and packaging integrity to meet customer specifications and weight tolerances.
  • Take immediate corrective action or reject product as needed.
  • Maintain a clean and orderly work environment in compliance with GMP and HACCP guidelines.
  • Report any conditions or practices that may adversely affect food safety, quality, or personnel to management.

Requirements

• Education & Experience
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Preferred: Technical certification or vocational training in manufacturing, automation, industrial technology, or related field.
  • 1+ years working in a fast-paced manufacturing environment required.
  • Preferred: 2+ years operating automated packaging equipment, specifically with PLC-controlled systems, robotics, or multiheaded weighers (Ishida strongly preferred) in an agricultural, greenhouse, or food processing environment.
• Skills & Abilities
  • Strong communication, listening, and teamwork skills.
  • Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills; understanding of automated controls/HMI screens.
  • Self-motivation, initiative, and ability to work independently or lead a group.
  • Adaptability to changes in policy, procedure, production schedules, and technique.
  • Ability to follow complex instructions, accept constructive feedback, and maintain a positive work atmosphere.
• Physical Requirements & Work Environment
  • Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks efficiently for extended periods (12-hour shifts) in a refrigerated environment.
  • Ability to frequently bend, twist, reach, climb stairs, and lift/carry up to 30 lbs. safely.
  • Flexibility to work overtime, weekends, holidays, or rotating shifts as required.

Pay

Starting Rate: $20.00/hour