Machine Operator 1st Shift SIGN ON BONUS ELIGIBLE

Job Purpose

The Machine Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient setup and operation of Woodland Gourmet’s production and packaging machinery within a dry powder food manufacturing environment. This role ensures all products meet required specifications, quality standards, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Responsibilities include leading the line crew, maintaining product flow, performing equipment adjustments, reporting production activities, and supporting sanitation and food safety requirements.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor fillers, coders, scales, case sealers, tape machines, and other production machinery or equipment.
• Perform machine changeovers, routine adjustments, and basic troubleshooting to maintain optimal line efficiency.
• Ensure daily on-time line starts and direct the line crew to complete production runs efficiently.
• Verify product quality (weights, codes, seal integrity, appearance) and ensure finished goods meet all specifications.
• Order product and packaging materials from material handlers in a timely manner to support continuous production.
• Report all production activities into the database and complete line paperwork accurately and on time.
• Follow all GMPs, hygiene rules, gowning procedures, and sanitary work practices to prevent contamination.
• Complete all required HACCP and quality documentation daily.
• Identify and report equipment malfunctions, safety hazards, or quality issues immediately.
• Ensure all line employees follow safety procedures and operate equipment properly.
• Conduct allergen and line changeovers following SOPs.
• Perform thorough cleaning and sanitation of equipment and work areas.
• Assist maintenance with minor repairs, preventative maintenance tasks, and basic mechanical needs.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment always.
• Operate pallet jacks, forklifts, or other material-handling equipment as required (certification may be required).
• Support production needs on other lines, including non-machine operator tasks as assigned.
• Collaborate effectively with supervisors and team members to meet daily production targets.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Machine operator experience required; experience with dry powder food packaging strongly preferred.
• Minimum 2 years’ operating manufacturing equipment; food industry background a plus.
• Knowledge of GMP, HACCP, and food safety principles.
• High attention to detail and commitment to product quality and accuracy.
• Strong mechanical aptitude for machine setup, adjustment, and troubleshooting.
• Understanding of general warehouse operations preferred.
• Must follow all Woodland Gourmet GMPs, safety, quality, and sanitation requirements.
• Must be flexible with hours, possibility for OT.
• Ability to lift 50lbs.

Skills & Abilities

• Strong leadership and communication skills; ability to direct and support line crew.
• Ability to prioritize, multitask, and adapt to different production lines.
• Basic computer skills for data entry and reporting.
• Ability to read and write English and interpret production, safety, and maintenance documents.
• Strong math skills: add, subtract, multiply, divide (fractions, decimals, all units of measure).
• Understanding of weights, measurements, and scale operations.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Positive attitude and ability to work well with others.
• Ability to learn quickly and assist with minor maintenance adjustments.

Physical Demands

Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and frequently bend and move about the facility. Must be able to climb ladders and maneuver in small spaces. Able to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive physical tasks. Ability to lift, push, or pull materials up to 50 pounds. Able to work in a typical manufacturing environment, which may include exposure to noise and non-toxic dust.

Work Environment

This position does not allow for remote work. Works in a manufacturing environment with exposure to dust, odors, and noise. The performance of this position requires exposure to manufacturing and warehouse areas, which may, under certain conditions, require the use of personal protective equipment.

Pay & Benefits

This role is eligible for a $1,500 sign-on bonus and an annual bonus (based on incentive program terms). The estimated hourly salary range is $17.50 – $26.00, determined at the company's discretion based on qualifications, experience, transferable skills, and geographic location.

Benefits include medical, prescription drug plans, dental, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability, vision insurance, flexible spending account, health savings account, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance program, voluntary benefits (hospital, critical illness, personal accident, legal & identity theft), 401k with company match, paid family leave, paid holidays, and paid time off.

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