Machine Operator - 1st Shift

About the role

The Packaging Machine Operator plays a vital role in the production process, ensuring the efficient operation of packaging machinery and the timely packaging of cheese products.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor packaging machinery, including filling, sealing, labeling, and wrapping machines, ensuring proper setup, adjustments, and troubleshooting.
• Perform routine machine setup, changeovers, and maintenance to ensure uninterrupted production and adherence to quality standards.
• Maintain product quality through regular quality checks and completing quality documentation.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure seamless operations and adherence to production schedules.
• Document production data, machine performance, and any operational issues or deviations.
• Conduct sanitation duties, including cleaning and sanitizing equipment, work surfaces, and production areas according to established schedules and procedures.
• Adhere to safety protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to maintain a safe working environment and comply with food safety regulations.
• Aid in general labor tasks, including moving products within the facility, loading and unloading materials, and utilizing electric pallet jacks.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the packaging area and general production areas.
• Follow proper handling and disposal procedures for waste materials, including packaging waste and byproducts.
• Adhere to ERU food safety policies and all government food safety and sanitation regulations (ex. FDA, HACCP, GMP, OSHA).
• Attend safety and department meetings and complete all required training in a timely manner.
• Identify and report any equipment malfunctions, safety concerns, or operational issues promptly to ensure a safe working environment.

Qualifications

• Previous experience operating packaging machinery in a manufacturing or food processing environment is preferred.
• The ability to safely operate electric pallet jacks.
• Ability to read and interpret work instructions.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality products.
• Physical stamina to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting heavy objects and standing for extended periods.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to change.
• Ability to work overtime or extended shifts as needed.

Physical Requirements

• Constantly required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects and controls.
• Frequently required to walk, bend and reach with hands and arms.
• Constantly required to talk and hear.
• Constantly sit for long hours.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds.

Work environment

• Occasionally exposed to a moderate level of noise that may make it difficult to concentrate.
• Frequently traveling to manufacturing sites (50% travel day travel to sites).
• Occasional travel outside of Wisconsin including international travel (5%).

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance
• Basic Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• Flexible spending accounts & Health Savings Accounts
• 401k Retirement Plan
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation
• Employee Assistance Program
• Short term/Long term disability
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Pet insurance