Machine Operator

GardenCore; Elmer (NJ); On-site; USD 23,419 - 31,684; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan

Short‑term and long‑term disability

Life insurance

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Job summary

GardenCore is seeking a Machine Operator to run manual and automated machinery in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. You will perform preventive maintenance, set up production equipment, and ensure high-quality output for our customers.

You will monitor equipment, adhere to safety protocols, assist in maintaining production records, and support daily schedules. This role requires the ability to lift up to 65 lbs and work in a manufacturing setting in New Jersey.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 3+ years of related experience in trades or equivalent.
• Working knowledge of safety principles (lock‑out/tag‑out).
• Ability to lift up to 65 lbs and perform physical tasks as needed.

Responsibilities

• Observe equipment operation and detect malfunctions.
• Operate equipment to meet quality, cost, and schedule targets.
• Notify management of safety, quality, or environmental concerns.
• Maintain cleanliness and complete daily production forms.

Skills

Safety principles

Teamwork

Physical stamina

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Description

As a GardenCore Machine Operator, you will operate manual and/or automated machinery in a fast‑paced, covered and uncovered manufacturing environment, perform preventive maintenance, set up production machinery, and ensure proper machine performance, making a quality product for our customers.

Responsibilities

• Observe equipment operation and components, such as sensors, limit switches, proximity switches, conveyor belts, and photo eyes, to detect machine malfunction.
• Operate equipment to optimum efficiency to meet quality, cost and operational requirements of daily schedules.
• Notify management of any production, safety, quality or environmental concerns with equipment, operation or facility.
• Knowledge of bagging specifications, ranges, targets to meet quality standards.
• Daily cleanup of production work area with assistance from other personnel.
• Understand and complete daily production forms accurately.
• Perform routine maintenance of production equipment to include lubricating, fueling, and cleaning.
• Other duties and responsibilities related to the nature of the job may be assigned on a temporary or permanent basis as needed.

Requirements

• 3+ years of related experience in trades specific to job requirements; or equivalent.
• High school diploma or GED, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Working knowledge of safety principles, such as lock‑out/tag‑out.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to speak or hear.
• The employee will be required to sit for extended periods of time.
• The employee may frequently stand on their feet.
• The employee must have the ability to lift and/or move up to 65 lbs. from the ground level. The need to lift over 65lbs may arise from time to time – should this be the case, employees should engage in team lifting and/or use the provided equipment to safely lift.
• The employee must have the capability to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms, legs, and their whole body – bending, crouching, climbing, using steps and ladders, pushing pulling, stooping and reaching.
• Ability to think independently while successfully functioning in a team environment, with a proven track record of contributing toward team goals.

Compensation

• Hourly pay rate of $20/hr.
• 401(k) plan / group retirement savings program.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability benefits.
• Life insurance.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off.
• Paid holidays.

What GardenCore Offers You

• Highly competitive base pay.
• Comprehensive medical, dental and disability benefits programs.
• Group retirement savings program.
• An inclusive culture that values opportunity for growth, development, and internal promotion.

About GardenCore

GardenCore is a leading U.S. manufacturer of lawn and garden consumables, offering a broad portfolio of mulch, soil, stone, and lime products. The Company has deep, long‑standing partnerships with major home improvement retailers and garden centers, and delivers consistent, high‑quality execution across large‑scale private label and branded programs. The Company has over 1,400 employees and operates 58 manufacturing facilities across the United States.

GardenCore, is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.

EOE/Vet/Disability

GardenCore 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, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

AI tools may be used in certain stages of the employment lifecycle, such as candidate review; however, all final employment decisions will be made by a person.