Machine Operator 1st Shift

Fresh Express Salads; Columbia (SC); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Machine Operator to join their team. In this role, you will independently operate packaging machines, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to process improvements while working in a dynamic environment. Ideal candidates will possess mechanical troubleshooting skills and a strong commitment to adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices. If you thrive in a fast-paced setting and are eager to grow your career in the food processing industry, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• Must have previous experience operating food processing equipment.
• Ability to pass written tests and demonstrate proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Independently operate packaging machines and ensure proper settings.
• Maintain cleanliness and support teammates in production.

Skills

Mechanical troubleshooting

Basic math skills

English proficiency

Downtime tracking

Adherence to GMPs

Ability to work in cold environments

Education

High School diploma/GED

Technical School coursework

Mechanical/Vocational Certification

Job description

1st Shift

The Machine Operator should be able to independently operate identified/assigned packaging machines installed at the site.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position.
• Compliance to SOP's, GMPs, Housekeeping, Safety, and all other FE policies.
• Must inspect settings for codes, dates, leaks, oxygen levels, and seals to ensure proper operation of the assigned equipment.
• Completes all required safety, Food safety, production, maintenance, etc. documentation as required.
• Be able to participate in process improvement projects or new product testing.
• Report any equipment malfunction to the PMO, floor coordinator or supervisor immediately.
• Report any unsafe condition immediately.
• An Operator III is able to independently run, and support assigned designated packaging machines and support equipment.
• Assists higher level Operators as needed.
• Executes necessary changeovers in equipment, film, printers, and related ancillary processes while ensuring production expectations are met.
• Assure that all date coding and bag labeling is correct i.e., packages, boxes, etc.
• Plan ahead on supplies needed for upcoming products per schedule.
• Keep work area and equipment clean and free of garbage/debris at all times.
• Able to assist in different lines or baggers as needed.
• Works as directed and as a team.
• Supports teammates.
• Contributes to goals.
• Ability to set up multiple machines for startup and during production.
• Must be able and willing to assist in all jobs on line to keep machines running at all times.
• Works cooperatively with process owners to maintain quality standards.
• Assures quality products are being produced by meeting quality specifications for production on assigned line(s).
• Makes machine adjustments as needed to achieve and maintain expected equipment performance.
• Employees may be assigned to perform other tasks such as packing, palletizing, trimming, inserting master packs, housekeeping, rework, general labor activities, etc. on a temporary basis.
• Responsible for actively supporting the other members of the employee's work team including assisting with cross-training, new-hire/buddy assignments, and process support during breaks, meal periods, and other staff coverage as needed.
• Able to pass both written and hands-on LOTO (Lock-Out Tag-Out) training on a yearly basis and be able to successfully lock out machinery as needed.
• Can advance to Machine operator II through training and education after 1 year.

Required Qualifications/Skills:

• Must have basic mechanical troubleshooting skills and know basic math such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, simple formulas, and conversions.
• Must take a written test to demonstrate proficiency.
• Must have ability to accurately track downtime and performance indicators.
• Must be able to successfully speak, read and write English at the level of work instructions, diagrams and related equipment documentation and support materials.
• Must adhere to GMP's (Good Manufacturing Practices) and PPE's (Personal Protection Equipment).

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift 75 pounds (dead lift) continual and box opening for 8 hours a day or more.
• Must pass a math aptitude test and must pass the required strength physical examination.
• Must have repetitive hand and eye movement skills.
• Must be able to stand for the duration of the shift (8 hours or more), perform repetitive motions throughout the shift such as push/pull/lift, twist, stoop, and bend continuously through the shift.
• Be able to climb stairs or step up onto a platform several times throughout the shift.
• Must be able to work in a noisy, wet, and cold environment of approximately 30-34 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Must be able to work 6 or more consecutive days including overtime, any shift, late nights, weekends, and holidays if necessary.

Other Desired Qualifications/Skills:

• Prior experience in a similar temperature/strenuous work environment preferred.
• Bilingual English/Spanish.

Experience:

Must have previous experience operating related food processing equipment or equivalent. Must pass the written exam before being assigned to Operator III. Prior experience in a packing environment.

Education/Training:

High School diploma/GED, some Technical School coursework, or Mechanical/Vocational Certification.

Other Information:

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees, and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.