Process Worker - Machine Operator

seek.com.au; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Farm Pride Foods Ltd in Melbourne is seeking a reliable Process Worker - Machine Operator to safely run PLC-controlled production and packaging lines in a fast-paced FMCG environment.

You will monitor PLC/HMI screens, adjust equipment, perform changeovers, document production data and uphold food safety, hygiene and allergen-control standards while contributing to continuous improvement with the production team.

Qualifications

• Experience operating PLC-controlled production lines in FMCG.
• Ability to monitor and adjust machine parameters and alarms.
• Strong focus on food safety and quality documentation.

Responsibilities

• Operating and monitoring PLC-controlled production machinery.
• Starting, stopping and setting up equipment in accordance with production requirements.
• Monitoring HMI/PLC screens, machine settings, alarms and operating parameters.
• Making authorised machine adjustments to maintain product quality and production performance.
• Completing production records and documentation accurately.
• Performing routine inspections, cleaning and basic operator maintenance activities.
• Following food safety, quality, hygiene and allergen-control requirements.

Skills

PLC operation

HMI monitoring

Machine setup

Troubleshooting basics

Food safety awareness

Tools

PLC hardware

HMI panels

Job description

We are looking for a reliable and safety-focused Process Worker -Machine Operator with experience operating PLC (programmable logic controller) controlled machinery to join our food manufacturing operations. In this hands‑on role, you will operate, monitor and adjust PLC-controlled production and packaging equipment to deliver safe, high-quality products efficiently and consistently.

Who are we?

Farm Pride Foods Ltd is a publicly listed company on the Australian Stock Exchange and a market leader in the growing, supply and processing of eggs in Australia. Our company heritage and industry leadership dates back to 1937. We are a major grower and processor of eggs and value-added egg products operating 10 company farms near the regional centres of Bendigo, Ballarat, Shepparton, and Geelong, as well as maintaining 2 major grading floors and a processing facility.

The Role

Working as part of our production team, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of automated equipment within a fast‑paced FMCG manufacturing environment.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Operating and monitoring PLC-controlled production machinery.
• Starting, stopping and setting up equipment in accordance with production requirements.
• Monitoring HMI/PLC screens, machine settings, alarms and operating parameters.
• Making authorised machine adjustments to maintain product quality and production performance.
• Completing product changeovers, machine set‑ups and basic equipment adjustments.
• Identifying machine faults and undertaking basic first‑line troubleshooting.
• Escalating electrical, mechanical and control-system faults to Maintenance when required.
• Monitoring production output, waste, downtime and quality performance.
• Completing production records and documentation accurately.
• Performing routine inspections, cleaning and basic operator maintenance activities.
• Following food safety, quality, hygiene and allergen‑control requirements.
• Complying with site safety procedures, including isolation and Lock Out Tag Out requirements where applicable.
• Working closely with Production, Quality and Maintenance teams to minimise downtime and maintain production flow.
• Contributing to continuous improvement initiatives across safety, quality, waste and productivity.

About You

We are looking for someone who is mechanically minded, comfortable working with automated machinery and able to remain calm when equipment does not operate as expected.

Experience operating PLC-controlled machinery is required. The following additional experience and capabilities are desirable:

• Previous experience operating automated machinery in FMCG, food, beverage, pharmaceutical, packaging or a similar manufacturing environment.
• Experience operating PLC-controlled equipment using HMI (human–machine interface) screens to monitor machine settings and alarms and make authorised operating adjustments.
• Good mechanical aptitude and basic machine troubleshooting capability.
• Experience with machine set‑ups, product changeovers and production adjustments.
• A strong understanding of manufacturing safety requirements.
• A commitment to food safety, hygiene and product quality.
• Good problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to accurately complete production and quality documentation.
• Ability to work effectively within a fast‑paced production team.
• Good communication skills and a willingness to elevate problems when appropriate.

Experience working within a HACCP-based food safety system and exposure to automated conveyors, processing, grading, filling, packing or palletising equipment would be highly regarded.

PLC programming experience is not required. We are looking for an operator who understands how to safely operate, monitor and troubleshoot PLC-controlled equipment, rather than an automation technician or PLC programmer.

Please note: Due to our strict biosecurity requirements, you must not have any birds, pigs or poultry at home and be willing to maintain our quarantine policy and procedures. You must also not live with anyone who has contact with these species. Further information on quarantine and biosecurity requirements will be provided at the interview stage.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted so we thank you in advance for your interest in the role and for taking the time to apply!

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