Production Machine Operator

About the role

Welch's is pursuing its ambition to be the global leader of convenient, good‑for‑you fruit‑based food and beverages. The company offers a vibrant, authentic, and inclusive culture where you can belong and unleash your best self. As a Production Machine Operator (PCO) at the North East, Pennsylvania manufacturing facility, you will operate automated production and packaging equipment, monitor product quality, perform changeovers, and help keep the line running safely and efficiently. The plant runs seven days a week, and the position is union‑based with 15 openings for second and third shifts.

Responsibilities

• Operate automated production and packaging equipment using computerized controls
• Rotate among different production and packaging responsibilities
• Monitor equipment and make minor adjustments to keep the line running properly
• Complete equipment changeovers and basic maintenance, including oiling and greasing machinery
• Follow lockout/tagout and other required safety procedures
• Inspect production line setups and report equipment problems
• Complete product‑quality checks and required production records
• Confirm that ingredients and production supplies are available
• Clean and sanitize equipment, production lines, and surrounding work areas
• Follow all food safety, quality, sanitation, and housekeeping standards
• Work closely with production, quality, sanitation, and maintenance team members
• Perform other production‑related duties as assigned

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
• Ability to work second shift (3:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m.) or third shift (11:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m.)
• Availability to work weekends and holidays when scheduled
• Reliable and consistent attendance
• Ability to learn and safely operate automated manufacturing equipment
• Ability to follow written instructions and established processes
• Strong attention to safety, quality, and detail
• Willingness to rotate between production and packaging responsibilities
• Ability to complete required training and maintain job qualifications
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Previous experience as a machine operator, production worker, manufacturing associate, material handler, or general laborer is preferred but not required
• Food and beverage manufacturing experience is a plus
• Employees entering this union classification are expected to remain in the role for at least 12 months before bidding into another position, per the applicable labor agreement

Benefits

• Competitive union wages and shift differentials
• Training to help you learn the equipment and succeed in the role
• Opportunities to build skills across multiple areas of production
• Access to LinkedIn Learning and other development opportunities
• Product giveaways and employee celebrations throughout the year
• Long‑term career opportunities with an established company
• An inclusive workplace where employees are encouraged to speak up, contribute ideas, and make an impact
• The pride of helping produce products enjoyed by families across the country

Pay

Starting pay: $29.30 per hour. Second shift includes a $0.45‑per‑hour shift differential; third shift includes a $0.55‑per‑hour shift differential.

Schedule

Second shift: 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (plus $0.45/hour differential). Third shift: 11:00 p.m. to 7:00