Machine Operator (1st Shift)

Gardner-Pie-Company; Akron (OH); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive insurance

401(k) with company match

Profit sharing

Paid time off

Eight paid holidays

Weekly pay cycle

Pie discounts

Job summary

Gardner Pie Company in Northeast Ohio is seeking a Machine Operator to join our expanding family‑owned team. You will set up, operate, and monitor production equipment, adjust settings for quality and throughput, and perform inspections to ensure safety and product specifications.

This role requires a High school diploma and 3+ years of machine operation, preferably in food manufacturing. We offer benefits including medical/dental, life insurance, 401(k) with match, profit sharing, paid time

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3+ years of machine operation experience.
• Food manufacturing experience strongly preferred.
• Experience performing machine adjustments, changeovers, and troubleshooting.
• Proven ability to effectively communicate with team members, Supervisors, and Managers.
• Knowledge of HACCP, GMPs, and food safety regulations preferred.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and monitor production machinery in accordance with SOPs.
• Adjust machine settings as needed to maintain product quality, weight, appearance, and throughput.
• Perform routine equipment checks and minor troubleshooting to minimize downtime.
• Load raw materials, ingredients, or packaging materials into machines as required.
• Inspect finished products to ensure compliance with quality, safety, and specification standards.
• Accurately complete production, quality, and downtime documentation.
• Follow GMPs, food safety, allergen control, and sanitation requirements.
• Maintain cleanliness of equipment and work areas, including participate in changeovers and sanitation.
• Communicate equipment issues, material shortages, or quality concerns promptly.
• Comply with all workplace safety policies, including PPE and lockout/tagout procedures.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by supervisors or management.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Basic computer skills

Basic math

Verbal communication

Written communication

Units of measurement

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

We're excited to announce an opening for our Machine Operator who plays a crucial role in our manufacturing process by operating, monitoring, and maintaining production equipment.

Top Benefits:

• Work Schedule: 1st Shift, Monday-Thursday 5:00am-3:30pm, (Start/end times may vary upon seasonal & departmental needs) with overtime flexibility.
• Comprehensive Insurance: Medical, Prescription, Dental, Life Insurance, Long-Term/Short-Term Disability.
• Financial Security: 401(k) with company match, profit sharing.
• Additional Perks: Paid Time Off, eight paid holidays, weekly pay cycle, pie discounts, and more!

About Us: Gardner Pie Company is a dynamic and expanding family-owned business in Northeast Ohio, and part of a legacy dating back to 1945. At Gardner, we're not just a food manufacturing facility; we're a community staple committed to career growth and long-term employment. Our team is driven by a passion for excellence, with our employees' dedication at the core of our success. We aim to set industry standards with our commitment to quality, variety, and innovation.

Your Role as a Machine Operator

Key Responsibilities:

• Set up, operate, and monitor production machinery in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Adjust machine settings as needed to maintain product quality, weight, appearance, and throughput.
• Perform routine equipment checks and minor troubleshooting to minimize downtime.
• Load raw materials, ingredients, or packaging materials into machines as required.
• Inspect finished products to ensure compliance with quality, safety, and specification standards.
• Accurately complete production, quality, and downtime documentation.
• Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), food safety, allergen control, and sanitation requirements.
• Maintain cleanliness of equipment and work areas, including participation in changeovers and sanitation.
• Communicate equipment issues, material shortages, or quality concerns promptly.
• Comply with all workplace safety policies, including PPE and lockout/tagout procedures.
• Perform any other duties as may be assigned by supervisors or management.

Skills Required:

Interpersonal communication skills, Basic computer skills, Basic math skills, Verbal communication, Written communication, Units of Measurement and measurement conversion.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3+ years of machine operation experience.
• Food manufacturing experience strongly preferred.
• Experience performing machine adjustments, changeovers, and troubleshooting.
• Proven ability to effectively communicate with team members, Supervisors, and Managers.
• Knowledge of HACCP, GMPs, and food safety regulations preferred.

Physical Requirements:

Sitting. Walking. Standing up to 5 hours at a time. Repetitive Motion. Going up & down stairs. Grasping. Pulling. Lifting/Carrying up to 40lbs. Bending. Twisting.

Work Environment:

Primarily in a food manufacturing environment. The facility contains the following food allergens: wheat, milk, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, and eggs.

Engagement & Equality:

Regular team events, awards, and company picnics.

Committed to equal opportunity and a drug-free workplace.

Gardner Pie Company is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunity to qualified persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status or disability.

Gardner Pie Company complies with a Drug Free Safety Program.