Food Production Associate-1st shift

Since 1955, we have been on a mission to passionately feed millions daily with high-quality food people enjoy. We are a third-generation family-owned and professionally managed organization with a commitment to strategic growth. Our success stems from talented people who choose to join our family and call E.A. Sween home. We pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming, respectful, and rewarding culture where employees are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work each and every day.

About the role

We’re seeking a reliable, quality-focused team member with excellent attention to detail who actively seeks opportunities to improve processes for greater efficiency without compromising product quality. You’ll demonstrate a positive, "can-do" attitude that inspires and motivates others, be open to learning new skills, and adapt quickly to changing priorities and demands.

Responsibilities

• General
  • Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to uphold food safety and product integrity.
  • Consistently follow safety protocols and wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in designated areas.
  • Complete additional tasks as assigned by Supervisor or Lead.
  • Collaborate and communicate effectively with team members from diverse backgrounds, cultures, abilities, languages, or perspectives.
  • Comply with all company policies and procedures.
• Leadership
  • Act as a team player, fostering a friendly and positive work environment.
  • Maintain excellent attendance.
  • Show flexibility and adaptability with work schedules as needed.
  • Ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and company policies in all tasks.
• Food Safety and Quality
  • Execute food safety, quality, and continuous improvement activities to meet SQF 2000, regulatory, and customer standards.
  • Adhere to all GMPs, standard work, and safety practices.
  • Report any non-compliance to the Pack-off Lead or Support Supervisor.
• Safety and Health
  • Contribute to a clean, safe, and organized work area.
  • Successfully complete mandatory E.A. Sween quarterly safety training to comply with OSHA and company policies.
  • Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) consistently as needed.
  • Ensure safe storage and transport of pallets, racks, and dollies to support the company’s Zero Safety Incidents policy.
• Production
  • Rotate through all production positions every 30 minutes.
  • Follow standard operating procedures for each role:
    • Box Maker: Place labels correctly on boxes. Prepare boxes by folding flaps for the boxing team to insert products.
    • Boxer: Check product labels for accuracy in price and date codes. Confirm the accuracy of face and ingredient labels. Place products in boxes or bun trays in the designated format.
    • Racker: Load completed trays into metal racks or finish cases on pallets as required. Ensure date codes on cases/trays are accurate and legible. Complete required paperwork and submit to the Pack-off Lead after each shift.
• Equipment & PPE
  • Operate and maintain the following equipment and tools as needed: Dollies, Racks, Bun Trays, Boxes (Cases), Pallets, Tapers, Box/Case Coders, Label/Box Making Stand, Palletizing T-Bar Tool, Cardboard Baler, Compactor, Stretch Wrap, Cutting utensils (knives/scissors).
  • Wear Personal Protective Equipment, including hard hats, and ensure proper usage.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience in high-speed packaging or assembly line work.
• Strong attention to detail and adherence to safety and quality standards.
• Physical ability to lift up to 30 lbs and perform repetitive tasks.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional Saturdays.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous assembly line experience in a high-speed packaging environment.
• Must be able to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Basic math skills are essential to count and verify products accurately.
• Possess a teamwork-oriented mindset and communicate effectively with others.
• Maintain a reliable attendance record.
• Keep the work area clean, safe, and organized.
• Able to lift up to 30 lbs continuously during a 10-12.5-hour shift, based on the production schedule.
• Willing to work overtime as needed to meet customer demands.

Preferred

• Food-related experience.

Physical Demands

• Able to work in cool conditions (35 – 45 degrees) continuously.
• Able to lift up to 30 lbs continuously.
• Able to stand continuously for 10-12.5 hours in a shift.
• Able to bend, turn, push, pull continuously.
• Able to reach overhead continuously.
• Able to keep up with manufacturing speeds continuously.

Schedule

Hours of operation are Monday-Thursday 6am-4:30pm. Overtime on Fridays, when needed.

Pay

Hourly pay is $19.00.

Benefits

E.A. Sween is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, financial security, and well-being of our team members.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• 8 Paid Holidays
• Company-Paid Life Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match – fully vested after 2 years
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Plans
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Recognition Program (Boss Bucks)