Machine Operator I

About the role

The Machine Operator I is responsible for safely operating and maintaining assigned production equipment to meet daily production targets. This role supports the team’s success by taking ownership of machine performance, performing basic troubleshooting, and keeping accurate production records.

Responsibilities

• Operate production equipment safely and efficiently, ensuring product quality and equipment uptime
• Monitor performance and adjust machine settings as needed to maintain steady operation
• Take full responsibility for the performance and condition of assigned machine(s), including basic checks and cleaning
• Work with the team to meet or exceed daily and shift production targets
• Assist with onboarding and hands-on training of new or less experienced operators
• Troubleshoot minor mechanical issues and escalate problems outside your scope to the supervisor or maintenance team
• Maintain logs and documentation, including production data and machine downtime
• Support sanitation and maintenance, including daily cleaning tasks and reporting needed repairs
• Follow all safety standards, including wearing required PPE and following Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) procedures

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required; vocational or technical training preferred
• At least 1 year of machine operating experience in a manufacturing, packaging, or production environment
• Ability to meet physical demands (lifting, standing, repetitive movement)
• Mechanical aptitude with a basic understanding of machine operations and troubleshooting
• Able to follow written instructions, SOPs, and communicate clearly
• Willingness to support team goals and help others succeed
• Open to working various shifts, overtime, and weekends as needed

Qualifications

• Production-focused: Consistently aims to hit or exceed output goals
• Ownership mindset: Takes responsibility for the performance and upkeep of assigned machines
• Team player: Supports others and contributes to group success
• Training support: Willing and able to guide and assist new operators
• Detail-oriented: Tracks performance data and watches for small problems before they become big ones
• Strong communicator: Reports clearly and works well with leads, maintenance, and QA
• Safety-first attitude: Follows all safety rules, policies, and procedures without shortcuts

Working Environment

Work is performed in a warehouse environment with moderate noise levels and occasional exposure to moving mechanical parts and electrical shock. The employee is occasionally exposed to changing environment temperatures and humidity, as well as pollen, dust, dander, and other natural elements.

Physical and Mental Demands

The employee is frequently required to remain in a stationary position, move and/or position oneself, communicate, operate and/or prepare, place, position objects, tools, or controls. The employee must occasionally move packages weighing up to 50 lb and stand for 90% of the time. The employee must also be comfortable with heights, occasionally ascending/descending a ladder, and working atop and traversing scaffolding. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close observation and the ability to adjust focus.