Machine Operator (Food Production Equipment)

National-Fruit-Product-Co.; Winchester (VA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

National-Fruit-Product-Co. is seeking a Machine Operator to set up, maintain, and operate production machinery across multiple departments to meet scheduling and manufacturing needs.

The role requires hands-on use of calipers and micrometers, adherence to safety and food-safety standards (SQF), and strong attention to detail. You will document outputs, assist with quality checks, and support continuous improvement on the line.

Qualifications

• Experience as a machine operator with exposure to high-speed machinery.
• Ability to use caliper and micrometer for measurements.
• Understanding of production procedures.
• Commitment to health and safety regulations and PPE.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Set up machines (calibration, cleaning etc.) to start a production cycle
• Control and adjust machine settings (e.g. speed)
• Feed raw material to semi-automated machines
• Inspect products with precision and measuring tools
• Test operation of machines periodically
• Fix issues that might occur during the shift
• Check output to spot any machine-related mistakes or flaws
• Keep records of approved and defective units or final products
• Maintain activity logs
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Machine operator

Measurement tools

Production procedures

Safety compliance

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Communication

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Position summary:

Position of Machine Operator is able to set up, maintain and operate machinery. This position will be required to work in various manufacturing departments to meet scheduling and manufacturing needs.

Position responsibilities:

• Set up machines (calibration, cleaning etc.) to start a production cycle


• Control and adjust machine settings (e.g. speed)


• Feed raw material to semi-automated machines


• Inspect products with precision and measuring tools


• Test operation of machines periodically


• Fix issues that might occur during the shift


• Check output to spot any machine-related mistakes or flaws


• Keep records of approved and defective units or final products


• Maintain activity logs


• Other duties as assigned.


• Job description can be changed at any time.

Essential skills and experience:

• Proven experience as a machine operator.


• Working knowledge of diverse high-speed machinery and measurement tools (caliper, micrometer etc.)


• Understanding of production procedures


• Adherence to health and safety regulations (e.g. constant use of protective gear)


• Attention to detail


• Teamwork and communication skills


• Physical stamina and strength


• High school diploma or equivalent; technical degree is a plus

SQF Requirements/Responsibilities:

• Support SQF requirements by maintaining food safety plan and food quality through completing job tasks and maintaining the work area in a sanitary manor to ensure compliance with FDA, USDA, and Kosher product requirements.


• Report food safety problems to personnel with authority to initiate action and or Food Defense issues to the Food Safety and Quality Department.

Safety Responsibilities:

• Safety is vitally important not only at our facility but also from a personal standpoint. Employees are responsible for understanding and following all safety procedures. Likewise, food safety is a key performance indicator. Understanding this, GMP and housekeeping procedures are to be followed as part of any job at our facility.

Physical demands and work environment:

• Physical demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.


• Work environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment requires mandatory use of ear plugs.