Operations Downline Operator I (Nights)

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.

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt. Reports To: Production Supervisor.

About the role

This position is responsible for all functions relating to operating the palletizing equipment and forklift used to package aseptic beverage finished products as well as cleaning (CIP) and sanitizing.

Responsibilities

• Operate all energized and non-energized forklift and palletizing equipment.
• Monitor and fix faults as well as clearing any material jams in palletizing robot.
• Pick and load outbound trucks as per paperwork.
• Unload and put away inbound trucks.
• Monitor raw packaging material and supplies to ensure it is supplied in an efficient manner to support production.
• Maintain ingredients and material in a First in First Out basis (FIFO).
• Perform routine maintenance as directed on all forklift and palletizing equipment; document in written form parts needed to be ordered.
• Relieve other production team members for breaks and absences as required.
• Maintain clean and organized area around equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties involving area equipment.
• Complete inspections of all critical parameters.
• Work independently as well as professionally with all other team members.
• Complete all required paperwork in a neat & professional manner.
• Proficient and comfortable using a computer.
• Perform a variety of quality and food safety checks to ensure standards and specifications are met.
• Communicate to all other facility personnel regarding any delays or problems that would hinder production.
• Follow all employee safety, food safety and quality procedures and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Responsible for proper shift handoff with incoming/outgoing operators.
• Wear all required PPE, such as protective gloves, aprons, face shields and safety glasses.
• Leadership and ownership of the department, job responsibilities and job function.
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Forklift certification
• Passing of background and drug screens
• Able to keep operating logs and records
• Able to read manuals and problem solve
• Able to climb off and on forklifts on a regular basis
• A desire to succeed and good work ethics are required
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• High energy, flexible, self-starter, hands-on, comfortable with little or no administrative support
• Attention to detail is a must
• Team player with a sense of urgency and a self-accountability mentality

Education

High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate degree or higher preferred; or two years related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience

Preferably at least one year experience in food manufacturing.

Skills

• Knowledge and understanding of basic math skills including weight calculations, averages and percentages
• Must be able to read and write in English

Work Environment

Approximately 100% of work is performed in a manufacturing facility which is not climate controlled and may contain allergens. Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds, climb stairs and stand for