Packaging Operator

Location: Columbia, SC

About the role

This is a core position in the packaging area that requires the knowledge and skills to accurately blend the finished kibble safely into high-quality finished product in the proper packaging mix and according to schedule. The role includes performing preventative maintenance, mechanically troubleshooting system equipment, and training other packaging associates.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain any combination of the following unit operations:
  • Big Bag Line: Operate from bunkers through stretch wrapper to schedule, perform changeovers, troubleshoot lines, and understand the complete operation of the GUI for blending systems.
  • Small Bag Line: Operate from bunkers through stretch wrappers to schedule, perform changeovers, troubleshoot lines, and understand the complete operation of the GUI for blending systems.
  • Packaging Flex: Provide packaging materials to lines as needed, stage materials for shifts, return unused materials to storage, and perform all JDA functions. Identify each kibble for each family produced.
• Perform all quality checks, maintain conformance reports and systems logs, and troubleshoot all aspects of each system.
• Maintain a clean, safe work environment that promotes associate safety and product integrity.
• Improve operations through individual and group problem-solving, providing leadership on the floor and in meetings.
• Perform preventative maintenance and downtime maintenance of area equipment, making incremental improvements.
• Train other area associates in line operation, palletizers, MIS systems, SQC, PCs, HAACP, CCP, and equipment repair.
• Communicate and escalate any quality and food safety concerns to site management.
• Participate in setting strategy for the packaging system to meet or exceed production schedules efficiently.
• Troubleshoot packaging systems to optimize performance, ensuring product quality while minimizing downtime.
• Assist maintenance and engineering in improving and upgrading current systems and provide input on new projects.
• Assist Research and Development with new packaging systems and improving current ones.
• Prepare and maintain SOPs and training modules.
• Assist Warehouse/Shipping functions as needed.
• Participate in the site safety program and actively look for ways to improve safety.
• Perform other similar duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent education.
• Basic knowledge of personal computers, including MS Office and email.
• Willingness and ability to work rotating schedules.
• Ability to understand and effectively communicate in English.
• High level of mechanical aptitude and knowledge, with strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Must not be afraid of heights and capable of working at elevated heights.
• Must not be unusually sensitive to chemicals.
• Vision correctable to 20/20 (contact lenses not recommended).
• Ability to stand on a concrete floor for long periods, wear proper PPE (hair net, bump cap, ear plugs, safety shoes, uniform, etc.), and perform physical tasks such as bending, stooping, twisting, turning, reaching, climbing stairs, and lifting up to 55 lbs.
• Ability to adapt to temperature and environmental extremes (hot to cold, dust, dirt, and chemicals).
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a team environment with minimal supervision.
• Forklift assignments require OSHA certification and frequent getting on and off.

Qualifications (Internal Associates)

• Most recent performance appraisal with a minimum of “Meets” expectations and not more than 1 year old.
• No active disciplinary notices.
• Acceptable attendance (less than 5 incidents and no discipline above an Initial Warning).

Pay

Competitive pay based on experience, including annual variable bonus payout and annual merit increases.

Benefits

• Medical, Vision, and Dental coverage starting day one.
• Up to 6% 401K match.
• Vacation time.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Short-term and Long-term disability.