Jobs · Manufacturing · Virginia

Machine Operator 1 - 1st Shift

KIK Consumer Products · Salem, VA · 3 wk ago
Manufacturing$18.54/hrFull-time

About the Role

We are seeking a Machine Operator on 1st Shift (6:00am – 4:30pm, Monday–Thursday with weekends per business need) to operate and monitor high-speed filling and packaging equipment, ensuring products meet safety, quality, and efficiency standards.

Responsibilities

  • Operate fillers and associated packaging equipment (case packers, cappers, sealers, palletizers, labelers) to safely produce quality products at targeted line speeds.
  • Control machine functions, including starting/stopping, speed adjustments, and coordination of variable speed controls to maintain a steady flow through the line.
  • Monitor for jams, spills, or other issues, reacting quickly to minimize downtime and product loss.
  • Perform routine checks for correct codes, labels, fills, torque, packaging integrity, and overall appearance; escalate non-conformances to quality or supervision.
  • Complete required time, production, and downtime records accurately and on time.
  • Communicate clearly with downline associates, supervisors, managers, and maintenance to report performance issues, safety concerns, and maintenance needs.
  • Monitor work areas and equipment for unsafe conditions, applying proper techniques or notifying appropriate personnel to correct them.
  • Follow and support all safety and GMP programs.

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • 1+ year of manufacturing experience; willingness to learn machine operation in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions, pay close attention to detail, and complete repetitive tasks accurately.
  • Reliable attendance, positive attitude, and strong teamwork and communication skills.
  • Willingness to work overtime, weekends, or adjusted schedules as business needs require.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 60 lbs as needed during the shift.
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and frequently bend, twist, reach, and extend arms while operating equipment and handling materials.
  • Ability to sit, kneel, and crouch to access lower equipment areas and packaging materials.
  • Comfortable working in both temperature-controlled and non-temperature-controlled, high-noise environments while wearing required PPE (hearing protection, safety glasses, gloves, etc.).
  • Must be able to visually inspect product, labels, and controls and hear audible alarms and equipment signals, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits including health, wellness, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
  • Retirement savings options with employer match.
  • Education Assistance to encourage continued personal development and growth.

Pay

Base hourly rate of $18.54.

About KIK

We create the products and brands that people trust to clean, sanitize, and protect their homes, pools, and cars. As one of North America’s largest independent consumer product manufacturers, we operate 16 North American manufacturing facilities and have a global presence in Canada, Europe, South Africa, and Australia. Our portfolio includes notable brands such as Spic and Span®, Comet®, Clorox® Pool&Spa™ (under license), BioGuard®, and Natural Chemistry® pool chemicals. We are also a leading private-label provider of laundry detergent, dishwashing products, and general-purpose cleaning solutions. Our team of over 2,300 employees drives innovation in product development, manufacturing, and brand marketing, guided by our “One KIK” values of customer focus, profitability, safety, ethics, and integrity.

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