Lead Automation Operator — Night Shift (Fri–Sun)

Cutfootsiouxinn; Hanover (York County); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Utz Quality Foods in Hanover, PA is seeking an Automation Line Operator Lead to join our manufacturing team. The role leads day-to-day line operations, monitors performance, and supports robotic palletizers and conveyors to keep production moving safely.

You’ll supervise automation operators, coordinate with leaders, and drive continuous improvement while working a fast-paced environment with opportunities to grow. This on-site, shift-based role offers strong safety focus and teamwork.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of experience in manufacturing or food packaging preferred
• Technical training in automation or robotics is a plus
• Comfortable with robotic arms, conveyors, and automated systems
• Basic understanding of alarms, machine interfaces, and troubleshooting methods
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow procedures
• Forklift or pallet jack certification
• Familiarity with barcode scanners, vision systems, and label printers
• Knowledge of PLC systems or programming languages is a bonus
• Awareness of Lean or Six Sigma practices is a plus

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safe operation of the Automation area by verifying LOTO and safety protocols
• Supervise and deploy Automation Operators, Jackpot Lane Operators, and Forklift Material Handlers
• Serve as primary on-shift contact to coordinate with leaders and address issues
• Responsible for key metrics and pallet movements to RDC at end of shift
• Monitor system indicators to track performance and identify improvements
• Oversee daily equipment inspections and cleaning at shift start and end
• Maintain 5S standards in the designated area
• Assist with changes to case dimensions, fill/count levels, and pallet configurations
• Routinely communicate opportunities to improve safety, quality, and service
• Complete operator care tasks and documentation
• Use HMI to start, stop, reset, and troubleshoot equipment
• Ensure correct case orientation and stacking per SKU/customer requirements
• Clear jams and alarms safely; restart system as needed
• Perform daily equipment checks and cleaning
• Maintain cleanliness in the automation area
• Follow lockout/tagout procedures and safety protocols
• Report downtime through Redzone
• Perform light maintenance and troubleshoot equipment issues

Job description

Utz Quality Foods in Hanover, PA is seeking an Automation Line Operator Lead to join our manufacturing team. The role leads day-to-day line operations, monitors performance, and supports robotic palletizers and conveyors to keep production moving safely.

You’ll supervise automation operators, coordinate with leaders, and drive continuous improvement while working a fast-paced environment with opportunities to grow. This on-site, shift-based role offers strong safety focus and teamwork.