Packaging Machine Operator

WaterWipes; Drogheda; On-site; EUR 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift allowance

Long-term employment

Training & development

Safe workplace

Job summary

WaterWipes in Drogheda is seeking a skilled Packaging Machine Operator to join our production team. This hands-on role ensures the safe and efficient operation of automated packaging machinery, including case packers and baggers, while maintaining high quality standards.

You will support continuous production, monitor line performance, and collaborate with maintenance, quality, and line leaders across a 3-cycle shift pattern in a fast-paced FMCG environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years' experience operating machinery in manufacturing or packaging.
• Experience with automated production or packaging lines.
• Ability to operate, monitor, and adjust machinery safely and efficiently.
• Strong attention to detail and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Operate automated packaging machinery, including case packers and baggers.
• Set up equipment, perform changeovers, and select correct programs for SKUs.
• Monitor machine performance and minimise downtime.
• Complete production documentation accurately.
• Follow Health & Safety, food safety, and site procedures.

Skills

Machinery operation

Packaging lines

Problem solving

Teamwork

Communication

Shift work

Job description

We are seeking a skilled Packaging Machine Operator to join our production team in Drogheda. This is a hands-on role responsible for the safe and efficient operation of automated packaging machinery, including case packers and baggers, ensuring products are packaged to the highest quality standards.

You will play a key role in maintaining continuous production flow, achieving output targets, and supporting overall line performance.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Operation & Production

• Operate automated packaging machinery, including case packers and baggers
• Set up equipment, perform changeovers, and select correct programs for SKUs
• Ensure smooth running of the production line and minimise downtime
• Monitor machine performance and adjust settings as required

Maintenance & Continuous Improvement

• Perform routine inspections, cleaning, and basic maintenance (CIL / DFF)
• Identify faults or inefficiencies and elevate issues promptly
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and waste reduction

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure all products are packaged to required specifications and quality standards
• Complete production documentation accurately (downtime, materials, checks)
• Follow all Health & Safety, food safety, and site procedures

Teamwork & Communication

• Work closely with Line Leaders, Maintenance, and Quality teams
• Provide clear shift handovers and communicate issues effectively

Essential

What We Are Looking For

• Minimum 2 years' experience operating machinery in a manufacturing or packaging environment
• Proven experience working on automated production or packaging lines
• Ability to operate, monitor, and adjust machinery safely and efficiently
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Good communication and teamwork abilities
• Comfortable working in a shift-based environment

Desirable

• Experience operating case packers or baggers (Meypack experience highly desirable)
• Familiarity with OEE systems (e.g. TrakSYS)
• Experience in FMCG or high-volume manufacturing environments
• Knowledge of Lean, 6S, or continuous improvement tools

Core Competencies To Perform this Role

Personal & Behavioural

• Accountability: Takes ownership of machine performance, quality, and safety outcomes
• Attention to Detail: Identifies defects, deviations, and incorrect materials quickly
• Teamwork: Collaborates effectively across production, maintenance, and quality teams
• Communication: Provides clear updates, escalations, and shift handovers
• Results Focus: Driven to meet production targets and maintain line efficiency

Technical Competencies

• Automated Equipment Operation: Confident operation of case packers, baggers, and packaging lines
• Machine Setup & Changeover: Ability to set up equipment and adjust formats for different SKUs
• Autonomous Maintenance: Basic inspection, cleaning, lubrication, and fault identification
• Performance Monitoring (OEE): Tracks downtime and contributes to improving line efficiency
• Quality Control: Ensures all products meet packaging and quality specifications

Continuous Improvement

• Identifies waste, inefficiencies, and recurring issues
• Participates in root cause problem-solving
• Supports Lean, 6S, and process improvement initiatives

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly rate + shift allowance & other benefits
• Stable, long-term employment in a growing manufacturing environment
• Training and development opportunities
• Supportive and safety-focused workplace

Why Join Us?

This is a great opportunity to join a high-performing production team where you can develop your technical skills in automated manufacturing while contributing to operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Location & Practicalities

• Drogheda, Co. Louth
• Full-time | On-site | 3-cycle shift pattern

WaterWipes® was created by our founder Edward McCloskey after his newborn daughter developed a nappy rash on her sensitive skin. After an extensive search he couldn’t find a baby wipe that didn’t contain numerous ingredients, so he decided to make his own. Many years later and after a lot of hard work, testing, and scientific research, WaterWipes® was born. Pure and gentle for the most delicate skin but in the convenience of a baby wipe, WaterWipes® are purer than cotton wool and water. Every day, parents around the world are discovering the benefits of our gentle and effective WaterWipes® for their baby’s skin. We hope you like them too.