Machine Operator - 2nd Shift Northland

Ditsch USA LLC; Cincinnati, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 30,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

Life insurance

401k plan

PTO & Holidays

Training & development

Job summary

Ditsch USA LLC, a leading pretzel producer in Cincinnati, Ohio, seeks a Food Production Machine Operator to set up and run packaging/process equipment, ensuring quality and safety standards every day.

Join a team that emphasizes learning, development, and safe operation in a fast-paced environment. The role requires attention to detail, strong mechanical skills, and the ability to work weekends as needed.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Manufacturing experience 1–2 years preferred.
• Familiarity with health and safety regulations.
• Food manufacturing experience is a plus.
• Familiarity with PLC-controlled equipment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and maintain machinery to support production goals.
• Ensure safety and quality, follow GMPs and SSOPs.
• Monitor product quality, weights, dates, and HACCP compliance.
• Troubleshoot machinery and collaborate with teams to improve processes.
• Communicate clearly with team members across shifts.

Skills

English proficiency

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Leadership & communication

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Safety focus

English comprehension

Reading technical docs

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

1–2 years in manufacturing

PLC familiarity

Job description

Northland: Position: Machine Operator - Food Industry
Department: Production
Starting at: $22-$24 per hour
Shift & Time: 2nd: (2:00pm - 10:00pm) Weekends as needed.
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio 45246

DITSCH USA creates memorable pretzel experiences! We bake artisan pretzels available for both food service and retail markets. As a leading producer of pretzels, we are committed to freshness and providing clean-label products. The quality of our irresistible products comes from more than 100 years of experience and craftsmanship in the ART OF PRETZEL MAKING!

We seek those who want to learn and grow within our organization. Ditsch USA offers development options to add to your skill set and open new opportunities for you within our organization. At Ditsch USA you will find a welcoming, safe, and team-orientated environment.

As a Food Production Machine Operator, you'll be responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining machinery to ensure top-notch production. Your role is pivotal in maintaining efficiency, quality, and safety standards while leading the charge toward meeting our production goals daily.

Responsibilities:

• Perform all functions associated with the start-up, shutdown, lockout, sanitation, and operation of the packaging and/or process equipment to produce products safely, with high quality & that meets or exceeds our targets for cost.
• Must hold safety to the highest standard and maintain good manufacturing practices with emphasis on quality & food safety. Maintain & clean machinery using specified tools and equipment per the Sanitation Standard Operating Procedures (SSOPs)
• Monitor and maintain proper product & packaging quality, appearance, weight, code dates, etc. Conduct periodic tests to ensure consistent product quality & document results. Perform quality control testing as well as record data in production & quality logs. Monitor metal detector CCP in accordance with HACCP programs.
• Efficiently operate and monitor all process and/or packaging equipment to maintain product flow by adjusting machine settings, maintaining center lines, etc. to achieve optimal performance. Collaborate with all team members, across all shifts to ensure smooth operations.
• Operate automated equipment not limited to touchscreens, electronic sensors, controllers, actuators, photo eyes and motors. Observe and adjust controls to maintain product specifications.
• Maintain accurate traceability of inventory throughout the use of ingredients and packaging material. Order & retrieve necessary materials to the work area - load and unload machines as needed.
• Troubleshoot machine issues and routinely clean and maintain equipment & workspace. Collaborate with all support teams to resolve issues, establish and improve processes, etc.
• Perform other duties assigned by the supervisor.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common industry, production, and technical documents in English.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently with meticulous attention to detail.
• Proficient understanding of production procedures and equipment.
• Commitment to maintaining high safety standards.
• Strong leadership and communication skills within a team environment.
• Proven experience in a fast-paced environment with a focus on quality and safety.
• Ability to comprehend and communicate effectively in English.
• Basic math skills and ability to work weekends and holidays as needed.
• Prior proficiency in equipment uses and operation.

Education and Experience:

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Mechanical skills and experience in a manufacturing environment (preferably 1-2 years).
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations.
• Previous food manufacturing experience is a plus.
• Two years of food production experience, preferred.
• Familiarity with PLC-controlled equipment, preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Working conditions are normal for a manufacturing environment.
• Ability of adjusting or moving objects of varying weights up to 50 lbs. in all directions.
• Ability to communicate with others to exchange information.
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Ability to withstand various climates through the facility i.e. freezer, dock, production (as low as -15 degrees up to 110 degrees)
• Ability to work in an environment with flashing lights, horns, and powered moving equipment operating in proximity.
• Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
• Prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking and/or remaining in a stationary position and often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Ability to move self into different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and/or confined spaces.
• Must be physically able to ascend and descend ladders, stairs, ramps, poles and scaffolding.
• Excellent hand/eye coordination.
• Ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Adaptability to work in diverse environments and surfaces.
• Ensure compliance with GMPs and maintain a clean work environment.
• Wear Personal Protective Equipment as needed.
• Stand and move around the manufacturing floor for up to 8 hours.
• Capability to stand, walk, squat, and perform repetitive tasks.

What we offer you (perks, bonuses, benefits):

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Automatic, FREE $25,000 life insurance policy
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options
• Additional voluntary life, AD&D, Critical Illness, and Short-Term Disability
• 401k Retirement Plan with Match
• Paid Time Off (PTO) & Holidays
• Ongoing training and development

Please note this job posting is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee in this role. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

The physical requirements are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the job's essential functions. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Ditsch USA, is an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.