Machine Operator I

EarthKind; Mooresville (NC); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the manufacturing sector is seeking a Machine Operator I to join their dynamic team in Mooresville, NC. The role involves operating various production machines, ensuring quality standards, and assisting in the development of operating procedures. Ideal candidates will have a high school diploma, some manufacturing experience, and strong communication skills. This position offers an opportunity to work in a fast-paced environment with a focus on safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 6 months to 1 year of production line experience required.
• Must obtain Production Associate Certificates within 8 weeks.
• Fluent in English for safety and operations.

Responsibilities

• Operate bagger and carton lines, troubleshooting as necessary.
• Perform quality inspections to ensure standards are met.
• Document and label pallets accurately before placement.

Skills

Manufacturing processes

Safety procedures

Teamwork

Effective communication

Problem-solving

Education

High school diploma or GED

Production Associate Certificates

Job description

Machine Operator I

Department: Production

Reports To: Production Supervisor

Supervises: None

Role Summary: The Machine Operator I handles production duties in a positive, fast-growing business environment with high ethical standards and team accountability. The machine operator will accurately perform repetitive work assigned by Production Management to complete tasks involved in producing, assembling, inspecting, or testing a product while operating lines and adhering to all factory safety guidelines and regulatory/certification standards.

Due to safety, communication, and operational requirements, fluency in English—speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension—is mandatory.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

1. Operate at least one of the following machines: bagger, overwrap, or carton lines.
2. Operate the case sealer and palletize finished goods.
3. Perform in-line quality inspections of manufactured goods to ensure quality standards are achieved.
4. Troubleshoot and perform basic machine adjustments to meet daily output requirements and reduce process waste.
5. Execute the daily production schedule.
6. Ensure machine uptime and efficiency through feeding raw materials.
7. Properly document and label pallets with correct documentation prior to warehouse placement.
8. Identify and communicate continuous improvement opportunities focused on safety, quality, cost, and delivery.
9. Report any damage or unusual conditions of the product or machinery immediately to your supervisor for corrective actions.
10. Execute machine set-ups and product changeovers.
11. Ensure all rework (defects) are accurately and promptly documented.
12. Follow and assist in the development of production Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
13. Operate in accordance with EarthKind’s safety and workplace organization procedures.
14. Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge & Skills:

• 6 months to 1 year of general production line manufacturing experience.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes.
• Knowledge of safety procedures.

Education: High school Diploma or GED. Production Associate Certificates required or must be obtained within eight weeks of start date (stapling, overwrap filling, carton filling, carton boxing, palletizing, and pallet jack).

Interpersonal Skills: Strong teamwork, effective communication, and adaptability. Initiative, problem-solving, and accountability are essential.

Other Skills: Basic math and reasoning skills. Ability to work independently with minimal guidance.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be fluent in English for safe operation and communication.
• Ability to read, write, and understand instructions.
• Normal hearing for conversations.
• Close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
• Ability to stand for long periods, kneel, stoop, crouch, or crawl.
• Lifting/moving up to 50 pounds.

Work Environment: Able to withstand warehouse temperatures, dust, odors, oils, cleaning solutions, lubricants, and noise.