Production Packaging Associate

About the role

The Packaging Associate is responsible for packaging cheese products while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, product quality, and efficiency. This position works under the direction of the Packaging Lead and is responsible for accurately packaging fixed-weight cheese products, operating packaging equipment, preparing finished products for shipment, and maintaining a clean and organized work environment.

Responsibilities

• Package String Cheese, Mozzarella whips, and other cheese products into fixed-weight packages according to company specifications.
• Verify package weights meet established standards.
• Operate vacuum packaging equipment and other production equipment safely and efficiently.
• Inspect finished packages for seal integrity, product appearance, and label accuracy.
• Pack finished products into shipping cartons according to company specifications.
• Stack, wrap, label, and palletize finished products for warehouse storage or shipment.
• Assist with equipment setup and product changeovers as directed.
• Follow production schedules and work assignments established by the Packaging Lead/Supervisor.
• Maintain production efficiency while minimizing product waste.
• Complete required production and packaging documentation accurately.
• Follow First In, First Out (FIFO) inventory practices.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the packaging area throughout the shift.
• Participate in daily cleaning and sanitation activities.
• Immediately report equipment malfunctions, damaged product, food safety concerns, quality issues, or safety hazards to the Packaging Lead/Supervisor.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support production objectives.

Food Safety & Quality Responsibilities

• Follow all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Comply with all applicable FDA regulations, Wisconsin DATCP regulations, company HACCP plans, and company food safety policies.
• Practice proper personal hygiene and handwashing procedures.
• Handle products in a manner that prevents contamination.
• Follow established sanitation and allergen control procedures.
• Verify products meet company quality standards before packaging.
• Immediately report food safety, quality, or regulatory concerns.
• Participate in all required food safety, HACCP, and workplace safety training.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift up to 50 pounds.
• Stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Perform frequent bending, reaching, twisting, and repetitive hand movements.
• Safely operate packaging equipment after training.
• Ability to work in an air-conditioned manufacturing environment.

Working Conditions

The work environment is an air-conditioned food production facility with exposure to moving production equipment, occasional wet floors during cleaning and sanitation, and approved cleaning and sanitizing chemicals. Personal protective equipment (PPE) including hairnets, beard nets (when applicable), gloves, and aprons are required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous Food Manufacturing Or Packaging Experience preferred but not required.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
• Basic math and reading skills.
• Dependable attendance and professionalism.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Schedule

Possible Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Friday, Saturday, Sunday schedules. Hours can vary from 6 am to 4 pm.