Operator, Dispensing
Role Overview
The Dispensing Operator will perform all functions related to dispensing of material, receipt of goods, put-away material into warehouse aisles, pull out material per Batch card/Pick ticket, put back to same location from where it was pulled for batches, manual order processing, order auditing, shipment preparation, pallet building, transferring material from wood to plastic pallets, and cycle counting inventory. All functions may require the use of powered industrial trucks, Syspro or RF as needed. Will need to work in temperature-controlled areas.
Areas of Responsibility
Level 1: Dispensing Operator — This is a training-level role for individuals with limited or no prior experience in pharmaceutical dispensing. Works under close supervision while learning company SOPs, GMP standards, and equipment operations.
- Assist in pulling and weighing raw materials under supervision
- Learn to read and interpret batch cards and pick slips
- Calibrate scales before use
- Cleans room after batch is complete
- Ensures safety and quality standards are consistently followed
- Maintain basic cleanliness of work area and equipment
- Support warehouse duties such as material receipt and basic inventory handling
- Follow safety procedures and learn PPE protocols
- Operate pallet jacks or assist with forklift activities (if certified)
Level 2: Dispensing Operator — This level is for operators with hands-on experience in pharmaceutical or supplement dispensing. Operators are responsible for completing batch-related activities with minimal supervision and maintaining documentation compliance.
- Dispense raw materials independently per batch cards
- Reviews batch card. Determine material to be used in the batch. Pull out material per requirement and enter in logbooks
- Performs requests received from other departments such as R&D, Production, QA or Purchasing etc.
- Cleans room after batch is complete
- Ensures safety and quality standards are consistently followed
- Weigh materials accurately and calibrate scales before use
- Use Syspro or RF systems for inventory control
- Handle, put-away, return, and transfer of goods between warehouse locations
- Perform manual order processing, auditing, and preparation for shipments
- Maintain gowning and hygiene protocols in controlled environments
- Ensure accurate documentation in logs and batch records
Level 3: Dispensing Operator — A highly experienced operator who may act as a team lead or trainer. Oversees batch dispensing activities, ensures compliance, and supports continuous improvement initiatives.
- Lead batch dispensing operations; verify materials and documentation
- Train and mentor entry and intermediate-level operators
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (QA, R&D, Production)
- Reviews batch card. Determine material to be used in the batch. Pull out material per requirement and enter in logbooks
- Performs requests received from other departments such as R&D, Production, QA or Purchasing etc.
- Cleans room after batch is complete
- Ensures safety and quality standards are consistently followed
- Conduct cycle counts and helps manage inventory accuracy
- Troubleshoot equipment or material issues; escalate when necessary
- Lead compliance audits for dispensing areas
- Support continuous improvement, safety, and 5S initiatives
Requirements
Level 1: Dispensing Operator
- High school diploma or GED
- 0–1 year of experience in manufacturing or warehouse setting
- Basic math and English reading skills
- Willingness to learn cGMP, OSHA, and SOPs
Level 2: Dispensing Operator
- High school diploma or GED
- 2+ years of experience in a pharmaceutical production environment
- Forklift operation experience (certification preferred)
- Familiarity with cGMP and SOP documentation standards
- Attention to detail and ability to troubleshoot basic dispensing issues
Level 3: Dispensing Operator
- High school diploma or GED; technical certification a plus
- 4+ years of dispensing experience in a GMP-regulated and within a pharmaceutical production environment
- Strong understanding of regulatory compliance (FDA, GMP, OSHA)
- Proven ability to lead teams and communicate effectively
- Proficient in inventory software (Syspro or similar ERP systems)
- Additional experience in granulation, compression, or blending is a strong plus
Skills & Abilities
- Demonstrates ability to work in a team and assist others
- Able to follow written instructions precisely and perform basic math calculations as required
- Understands and is knowledgeable of cGMP, OSHA standards, etc.
- Mechanically inclined to understand the inner workings of the equipment
- Demonstrates the ability to read and write basic English to be able to understand the industry-regulated instruction sheets
- Must have attention to detail
Physical & Environmental Requirements
All Levels:
- Able to lift 55 lbs regularly; occasionally up to 75 lbs
- Stand/walk for 6+ hours per shift
- Work in temperature-controlled rooms with PPE (lab coat, gloves, face mask, respirator, etc.)
- Exposure to dust, noise, and cleaning agents
- Uses hands to finger, handle, feel, or operate objects or controls, lifting to waist height and/or above shoulder height, frequent bending from the waist, or squatting, walking short distances
- Occasionally works from a rolling ladder or step stool, must be able to lean over equipment as well as kneeling on the floor to clean under the equipment
Work Environment
Work is regularly performed inside a manufacturing environment where temperatures can be moderate, exposure to dust, odors, noise, and fumes. The noise level is usually moderate. Employees can be exposed daily to chemicals and cleaning agents.
Benefits & Compensation
- Medical, dental, vision, short and long term disability, basic life insurance, supplemental life insurance, AD&D insurance
- Matched 401(k) savings plan
- Premium pay such as overtime, shift differential, holiday pay, sick time, etc.
- Newly hired employees receive up to 10 days of vacation the first year, which grows to 12 days starting the second year of employment
- 2nd shift: 3:00 PM – 11:15 PM