Production Associate | 1st Shift | KanPak | Arkansas City, KS

About the role

KanPak®, a Golden State Foods company, is seeking a Production Associate for its Arkansas City, KS facility. This position supports production operations by ensuring products are properly processed, packaged, and prepared for warehouse storage.

Responsibilities

• Load bundles of boxes into machines
• Operate labelers and ink-jet printers
• Operate box erectors and case packers
• Load pallets onto conveyors
• Stack finished cases onto pallets for storage
• Use tools such as wrenches and pallet jacks
• Maintain cleanliness and adhere to housekeeping standards
• Ensure compliance with food safety, quality assurance, and regulatory standards
• Contribute to operational excellence with a positive and flexible attitude
• Support overall production goals related to quality, safety, cost, and customer satisfaction
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Requirements

• A high school diploma or GED
• 2–3 years of production or related experience preferred
• Ability to operate production equipment and follow procedures
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Willingness to be flexible with schedule, including weekends and overtime

Qualifications

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching
• Lifting up to 50 lbs regularly and occasionally carrying up to 100 lbs
• Occasional stair/step climbing
• Use of hands for handling, tools, and equipment
• Visual requirements include close, distance, and peripheral vision

Skills

• Operational proficiency with production equipment
• Attention to detail and quality control
• Flexibility and adaptability to shift work

Benefits

• Paid time off (vacation, holidays, jury duty, bereavement)
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Disability coverage
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) & Dependent Care accounts
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Additional insurance options (Accident, Legal, Life)
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Education reimbursement and career development programs

Pay & Schedule

• Full-time, 1st Shift 6a - 2p
• Facility operates 24/7; flexibility required for weekends and overtime

Setting

Work performed in a production/manufacturing environment

Physical Demands

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching
• Lifting up to 50 lbs regularly and occasionally carrying up to 100 lbs
• Occasional stair/step climbing

Visual Requirements

• Close, distance, and peripheral vision

Why Join Us

• People First: Celebrate your talents and nurture your ambitions at a dynamic community where your contributions are valued.
• Values Driven: Core values guide everything we do, fostering innovation, integrity, and excellence.
• People Development: Continuously develop your skills to prepare for the future.
• Philanthropy & Sustainability: Make a difference beyond our walls through our commitment to sustainability and philanthropy.
• Extensive Benefits: Comprehensive benefits supporting your whole person.
• Equal Opportunity Employer: Celebrate diversity and foster an inclusive and respectful workplace.