Machine Operator - 1st Shift
KIK Consumer Products · Salem, VA · 1 mo ago
Management$18.54/hrFull-time
About the role
KIK Consumer Products is one of North America’s largest independent manufacturers of consumer products. The company creates trusted brands that clean, sanitize, and protect homes, pools, and cars. The Machine Operator position is on the 1st Shift (6:00 am – 4:30 pm) and involves operating and monitoring high‑speed filling and packaging equipment while working closely with Production, Quality, and Maintenance teams to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency.
Responsibilities
- Operate fillers and associated packaging equipment (case packers, cappers, sealers, palletizers, labelers) to safely produce quality product at targeted line speeds.
- Control machine functions including start/stop, speed adjustments, and coordination of variable speed controls to maintain steady flow.
- Monitor for jams, spills, or other upsets and react quickly using approved procedures 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 the work area and equipment for unsafe conditions, apply proper techniques, or notify appropriate personnel; support all safety and GMP programs.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or GED.
- At least 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 lb 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.
Pay
Base hourly rate of $18.54.
Schedule
1st Shift (6:00 am – 4:30 pm), Monday–Thursday with weekends as business needs require. Overtime and weekend work may be required.
Benefits
- Competitive salary.
- Comprehensive health, wellness, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
- Retirement savings options with employer match.
- Education assistance to support continued personal development and growth.