1st Shift Packaging Technician

THRUSHWOOD FARMS QUALITY MEATS INC; Galesburg (IL); On-site; USD 22,000 - 31,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Holidays

Flexible schedule

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Western Smokehouse Partners in Galesburg, IL is hiring multiple full-time Packaging Team Members to support the packaging line, prepare, handle, and inspect Ready-to-Eat meat products, ensuring USDA regulations and internal quality standards are met. This role involves machine setup, labeling, metal detection, case palletizing, and working in a cold environment.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, team-oriented, and able to lift up to 60 lbs; prior manufacturing experience is a plus.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is preferred.
• 1–2 years of experience in manufacturing or food production is a plus.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions in English.
• Ability to use labeling and scanning equipment accurately.
• Basic computer literacy and familiarity with inventory systems like Vista Trac.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow safety and quality protocols.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Wear, and ensure compliance with, all food safety garments.
• Load product into caddies and feed into packaging machines.
• Set up and verify printers for lot and best-by information.
• Monitor packaging machine operations and supply materials.
• Package, label, and palletize finished product per specs.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of equipment and area.
• Follow GMPs, SOPs, and FDA/USDA regulations.
• Report safety, quality, or equipment issues.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Independent work

English literacy

Computer literacy

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Vista Trac

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Galesburg IL Main Street - Galesburg, IL 61401

Position Type: Full Time

Salary Range: $19.00 - $19.00 Hourly

Job Category: Manufacturing

Join the TEAM at Western Smokehouse Partners!

We’re more than just a leader in the better-for-you meat snack industry‑we’re a team driven by quality, innovation and a passion for great meat sticks and jerky. With eight facilities across five states, we’re setting the standard in excellence for our co‑manufacturing and private label customers. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for highly motivated individuals who want to be part of an industry‑leading company that values contribution, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Western Smokehouse Partners is looking for multiple full time Packaging Team Member.

The Packaging Team Member supports the daily operations of the packaging line by preparing, handling, and inspecting Ready‑to‑Eat (RTE) meat products to ensure they meet all internal quality standards and USDA regulations. Responsibilities include machine setup, feeding, catching, palletizing, labeling, and metal detection to maintain high‑quality packaging output. This position requires working in a cold environment, performing repetitive tasks, and lifting up to 60 lbs. The ideal candidate is self‑motivated, quality‑focused, and works effectively in a fast‑paced, team environment.

Essential Duties

• Wear all required food safety garments (e.g., frock, gloves, aprons, sleeves, hairnet, beard net) in designated areas.
• Catch and load the correct amount of product into caddies.
• Feed product into the packaging machine, ensuring proper size, color, and quality.
• Set up and verify printer accuracy for lot and "best by" information.
• Monitor packaging machine functions (film, cutter, printer) for proper operation.
• Supply machine with lugs, film, labels, and other materials.
• Cut meat products to customer specifications; label lugs/racks accordingly.
• Monitor smokehouse cook cycles to ensure timely cutting.
• Package, label, and palletize finished product per specifications.
• Clean and sanitize equipment and packaging area regularly and between production breaks.
• Set up/change over machines for different product runs.
• Prepare packaging labels and verify all label information.
• Accurately complete metal detector and printer check documentation.
• Wrap and label pallets for outbound shipment.
• Operate scanners and input product data into Vista Trac for inventory accuracy.
• Load and unload trailers; verify Bill of Lading (BOL) and packing slips.
• Use screens, sieves, filters, or other equipment to detect/remove foreign material.
• Comply with all SOPs, GMPs, and FDA regulations.
• Report any food safety issues, product defects, equipment issues, or facility damage.
• Wear PPE as required and ensure safe work practices at all times.
• May be asked to assume responsibilities of other technicians or managers during absences.
• Assist in other departments or perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• 1–2 years of experience in a manufacturing or food production environment is a plus.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions in English.
• Ability to use labeling and scanning equipment accurately.
• Basic computer literacy and familiarity with inventory systems like Vista Trac.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow safety and quality protocols.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Ability to stand for 8–10 hours per shift.
• Frequent bending, squatting, reaching, and lifting up to 60 lbs.
• Repetitive motion tasks are required.
• Work is performed in a refrigerated/cold environment.
• PPE must be worn at all times in production areas.
• Noise levels may be moderate to high depending on machinery.

Benefits Offered

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Flexible schedule
• Employee assistance program (EAP)

Compliance and Safety

This position must comply with all company policies, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), FDA and USDA regulations, OSHA safety requirements, and applicable state labor laws. All safety hazards, food safety issues, and equipment malfunctions must be reported immediately.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Western Smokehouse Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. We are committed to compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local labor laws.