Operations Downline Operator I

SunOpta delivers customized supply chain solutions and innovation for top brands, retailers, and foodservice providers across a broad portfolio of beverages, broths, and better-for-you snacks. With over 50 years of expertise, SunOpta fuels customers’ growth with high-quality, sustainability-forward solutions distributed through retail, club, foodservice, and e-commerce channels across North America.

About the role

The Downline Operator I is responsible for the operations of the Downline Packaging equipment including: Cap Applicator, Cardboard Case Packer, Accumulators, and learning basic functionality of the coders. This role ensures efficient operation of distribution equipment, supports maintenance activities, and follows written and verbal instructions to meet quality and efficiency standards. The position assumes responsibility for safety, quality, and effective communication relevant to shift and plant performance, and may fill in for vacations or cover absences.

Responsibilities

• Complies with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Monitors and fixes faults as well as clearing material jams in equipment.
• Conducts required quality checks to ensure standards are met.
• Maintains a clean and organized work area.
• Ensures smooth shift transitions through effective communication within the production team.
• Troubleshoots and resolves basic to moderate operating difficulties involving area equipment.
• Assists maintenance technicians with routine maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Monitors WIP material and supplies to ensure efficient production.
• Uses Oracle systems to accurately scan material being consumed.
• Relieves other production team members for breaks and absences as required.
• Accurately prepares and maintains all area codes and paperwork.
• Sets up oncoming shifts for success by leaving the area clean, organized, and stocked.

Safety

• Adheres to all plant safety rules.
• Reports all near misses and accidents to the production supervisor and/or HR representative.
• Actively participates in the plant safety program, including monthly safety inspections and reporting potential hazards.

Quality

• Adheres to all Quality Assurance System guidelines.
• Follows SOPs and SSOPs (Standard Operating Procedures and Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures) when performing machine adjustments.
• Ensures compliance with GMPs, HACCP, and SQF programs.
• Accurately prepares and maintains downline area documentation, writing legibly and completely.

Maintenance

• Assists maintenance technicians with tasks to expedite repairs when maintenance is occurring in the work area.
• Reports equipment in disrepair immediately to avoid breakdowns.

Housekeeping

• Maintains a clean and organized work area.
• Assists with general housekeeping across all plant areas.
• Cooperates with other shifts and management in housekeeping efforts.

Communications

• Ensures effective shift communication and teamwork with other operators each scheduled shift.
• Maintains effective communication with members of the support group.
• Uses handheld radios professionally and respectfully.

Teamwork and Training

• Promotes and contributes to the development of a strong team.
• Works well among co-workers in a team environment.
• Assists in coaching and training employees as requested by management.
• Engages in continuous improvement of knowledge of the downline area.
• Becomes familiar with SunOpta 360.
• Completes and adheres to the annual Alchemy training schedule.

Requirements

• Able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Troubleshoots and resolves moderate to complex issues.
• Accurate and detailed record-keeping with legible handwriting.
• Understands procedures for all allergens and how to prevent cross-contamination.
• Adheres to all GMPs and safety procedures established by management.
• Must be able to stand for long periods (12 hours) and lift a minimum of 50 lbs frequently; occasionally moves rolling tubs in excess of 100 lbs and pushes/pulls pallet jacks with heavy loads.
• Works 12-hour shifts as required, including overtime when additional coverage is needed; maintains a good attendance record.
• Good personal hygiene.
• Performs Quality Assurance checks on cartons and cases, verifying package integrity.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, fostering a team environment.
• Minimum of 90 days of distribution equipment experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent education.
• Entry-level position; willing to train.
• Working knowledge of business, computer, and math skills preferred.
• Able to work effectively in a team-based environment, set priorities, handle multiple tasks, and make decisions under pressure.

Work Environment

The work environment includes exposure to wet and/or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, high precarious places, and extreme heat. The noise level is usually moderate. A 24/7 36/48-hour work week is considered normal, with extra hours, off-hours, and additional workdays required for special situations.

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, reach with hands and arms, lean, crouch, stoop, kneel, or crawl.
• Must climb up and down ladders or stairs several times per hour.
• Occasionally sits, lifts, pushes, pulls, and/or moves up to 50 pounds regularly and up to 75 pounds occasionally.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid family leave
• Paid maternity leave
• 401(k) with company match
• Voluntary Life, Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital indemnity insurance
• Paid holidays
• Tuition assistance
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance