Automated Packing Line Manager

Produce Careers Inc.; United States; On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural company in the United States is seeking an Automated Packing Line Manager to ensure efficient operation of automated equipment in a fast-paced packing environment. Responsibilities include operating machinery such as graders and sorters, troubleshooting issues, maintaining compliance with safety regulations, and overseeing a team of 10-15 staff. Ideal candidates will have experience in food processing or agriculture, strong attention to detail, and problem-solving skills. Applicants must be willing to work variable shifts and overtime during peak seasons.

Qualifications

• Experience in a manufacturing or agricultural environment.
• Ability to learn automated and computer-assisted machinery.
• Willingness to work variable shifts and overtime during peak season.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor automated packing equipment.
• Conduct routine checks on line performance and equipment settings.
• Log production data and ensure finished products meet quality standards.

Skills

Ability to operate automated machinery

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Effective communication

Teamwork

Tools

PLC-driven systems

Optical sorters

Robotic palletizers

Job description

The Automated Packing Line Manager is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining automated equipment used in the grading, sorting, weighing, bagging, and palletizing of produce. This role ensures efficient production flow, product quality, and safe operation of machinery in a fast-paced agricultural packing environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor automated packing equipment including graders, sizers, optical sorters, baggers, conveyors, palletizers, and labeling machines.
• Start up, shut down, and adjust machinery according to production schedules and product specifications.
• Perform basic troubleshooting of mechanical or software issues and escalation of complex problems to maintenance.
• Oversee a team of 10-15
• Ensure finished products meet quality standards for size, grade, labeling, weight, and packaging.
• Conduct routine checks on line performance, product flow, and equipment settings.
• Communicate quality deviations to supervisors and quality assurance staff.
• Follow all facility safety policies, lockout/tagout procedures, and food safety requirements (GAP, GMP, HACCP, FSMA).
• Maintain a clean and organized work area to support sanitation, safety, and food quality compliance.
• Immediately report unsafe conditions, near misses, equipment hazards, or food safety concerns.
• Log production data, downtime events, and equipment performance in electronic or paper systems.
• Verify accuracy of labels, case counts, and documentation required for traceability.
• Assist with inventory of packaging materials.
• Work closely with mechanics, sanitation, forklift drivers, and quality control staff to ensure smooth operations.
• Relay equipment performance issues and production updates to supervisors and incoming shifts.

Qualifications

• Experience working in a manufacturing, food processing, or agricultural environment.
• Ability to operate or learn to operate automated and computer-assisted machinery.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 lbs as needed.
• Willingness to work variable shifts, overtime, and weekends during peak season.
• Experience in automated produce packing.
• Familiarity with PLC-driven systems, HMIs, optical sorters, or robotic palletizers.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations, GMPs, or HACCP programs.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to react quickly to changing line conditions.
• Effective communication and teamwork.
• Basic computer literacy (touchscreens, data entry, production software).
• Mechanical troubleshooting and equipment awareness.