Filling Operations Filler Operator I

SunOpta Inc.; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; USD 58,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in sustainable food manufacturing seeks an individual to operate processing equipment for aseptic beverage products. The role involves cleaning, maintaining equipment, and ensuring product quality while adhering to safety and GMP procedures.

Qualifications

• At least two years’ experience in food manufacturing preferred.
• Strong troubleshooting and mechanical skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate aseptic filling equipment ensuring product quality.
• Monitor and troubleshoot equipment faults.
• Perform quality checks to meet standards.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Communication

Attention to Detail

Team Player

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate’s degree preferred

Tools

Forklift

Job description

Job Description

SunOpta Overview:

SunOpta (Nasdaq:STKL) (TSX:SOY) is an innovative and sustainable manufacturer fueling the future of food. With roots tracing back over 50 years, SunOpta drives growth for today’s leading brands by serving as a trusted innovation partner and value-added manufacturer, crafting organic, plant-based beverages, fruit snacks, nutritional beverages, broths, and tea products sold through retail, club, foodservice, and e-commerce channels. Alongside the company’s commitment to top brands, retailers, and coffee shops, SunOpta also proudly produces its own brands, including SOWN, Dream, and West Life. For more information, visit SunOpta and LinkedIn.

SunOpta is looking for talented individuals who demonstrate our core values: Passion, Dedication, Speed, Entrepreneurship, Customer-Centricity, and Problem-Solving, to help create a brighter, healthier, and sustainable future of food!

Pay Rate: $28.10

Schedule: 5:30am - 6:00pm

Reports to: Jalal Qaqish

Summary

This position is responsible for operating the processing equipment used to package and manufacture aseptic beverage products, including cleaning (CIP), sanitizing, and maintaining equipment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Coordinate all functions related to cleaning (CIP), sterilizing, and operating aseptic filling equipment and supporting systems, ensuring product quality and departmental efficiency.
• Monitor and troubleshoot equipment faults and jams.
• Maintain communication within the production team for smooth shift transitions.
• Perform quality checks to meet standards.
• Relieve team members for breaks and absences.
• Keep the area around equipment clean and organized.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operating difficulties.
• Perform routine maintenance on DE machines and support mechanics.
• Monitor raw materials and supplies for efficient production.
• Understand the aseptic process flow.
• Maintain all paperwork neatly and professionally.
• Work independently and with team members.
• Use computer systems proficiently.
• Conduct quality and food safety checks.
• Communicate delays or issues to facility personnel.
• Follow all safety, food safety, and GMP procedures.
• Ensure proper shift handoffs.
• Wear all required PPE.
• Take ownership of departmental responsibilities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Forklift certification.
• Background and drug screening clearance.
• Strong troubleshooting and mechanical skills.
• Good work ethic and desire to succeed.
• Excellent communication skills.
• High energy, flexible, self-starter, hands-on.
• Attention to detail.
• Team player with a sense of urgency and accountability.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s degree preferred or two years related experience.
• At least two years’ experience in food manufacturing preferred.

Knowledge and Skills

Basic math skills including weight calculations, averages, and percentages. Ability to read and write in English.

Travel Requirements

None normally; travel may occur for training purposes.

Work Environment/Physical Demands

Manufacturing environment, not climate-controlled, may contain allergens. Must lift at least 50 pounds, climb stairs, and stand for long periods.

Please note this job description is not exhaustive and duties may change at any time.

EOE M/W/VET/DISABLED