Machine Operator I (1st Shift)

Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc.; Toluca (IL); On-site; USD 27,552 - 30,307; Full time

Job summary

Ajinomoto Foods North America, Inc. Toluca Plant is seeking a Machine Operator I (1st Shift) to support our growing production line. You will operate different equipment, prepare vegetables and proteins, and complete required paperwork.

The role trains to assist Level 3 operators and perform production line tasks, with a focus on safety, GMP, and quality standards. The position offers a base pay of $20.25 per hour and full-time hours.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience in a food manufacturing production environment preferred.
• Good communication skills (reading, writing and verbal) essential to follow work instructions and interface with co-workers, Team Leaders and Managers.
• Must be willing to work as part of a team; self-motivated and able to work with little supervision.

Responsibilities

• Operate equipment including mixers, dicers, grinders, and choppers to support dough, vegetable and protein prep.
• Ensure all preparations, machine setups and adjustments are completed prior to scheduled start up.
• Assist Level 3 Machine Operators by providing materials and completing paperwork.
• Monitor equipment and report issues to leadership and Maintenance.
• Label and tag ingredients in accordance with company standards.
• Collaborate with team leaders, Level 3 Operator, and shipping to ensure correct ingredients and amounts.
• Maintain safety, GMP and quality standards on the production line.

Skills

Good communication skills

Teamwork

Strong organizational skills

Self-motivated

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Machine Operator I (1st Shift)

US-IL-Toluca

Job ID: 2026-10110
Type: Regular Full-Time
# of Openings: 1
Category: Direct Laborer / Operator
Toluca Plant

Overview

Ajinomoto Foods North America is a global leader in frozen foods, renowned for delivering nutritious and delicious meals to households everywhere. With a rich history of diverse ethnic brands, we’re on a mission to contribute to healthier lifestyles through our innovative and balanced Umami foods. Our commitment to excellence is evident not just in the quality of our products but in our dedication to our employees and our community.

Here in Toluca, our investment in expanding our facility and adding a new production line reflects our belief in growth and innovation. If you’re passionate about building a fulfilling career, being part of a great team, and helping to transform the way the world eats, we invite you to join us. Together, we can make a real difference—one meal at a time.

Job Description

The Machine Operator – Level 1 is responsible for operating different types of equipment, preparing vegetables and proteins for the production line, completing required paperwork, and assisting the Machine Operator – Level 3 with required tasks on the production line. This position will be trained to perform various production line functions to include: vegetable and protein preparation, operator assisting, weight checks, paperwork completion, and other various tasks.

Responsibilities

• Operate equipment to include mixers, dicers, grinders, and choppers used to support dough, vegetable and protein prep in production.
• Assure all preparations, machine set ups and adjustments are completed prior to scheduled start up for scheduled machinery.
• Assist Level 3 Machine Operators by providing material, completing paperwork, or assisting with required tasks. Accurately prepare and review required paperwork to include batch sheets, material returns, equipment inspection, downtime, weights, temperatures, any other product requirements.
• Monitor equipment to ensure everything is working correctly and report any equipment issues to leadership and Maintenance.
• Responsible for all ingredients to be labeled/tagged in accordance with Company standards.
• Work with team leaders, Machine Operator – Level 3, and shipping to ensure correct ingredients and amounts are used in production.
• Communicate with co-workers concerning situations that have or may impact operations
• Maintain equipment and collaborate with leadership and maintenance to report and troubleshoot equipment repairs
• Perform work within Company quality standards and governmental regulatory standards.
• Understand Company quality standards for product defects and immediately report excessive defect levels to the Team Leader.
• Demonstrate good working knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
• Follow all safety rules and regulations. Report unsafe work conditions/acts to Leadership
• Practice 5s and clean as you go.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience in a food manufacturing production environment is preferred.
• Good communication skills (reading, writing and verbal) are essential to follow work instructions and interface with co-workers, Team Leaders and Managers.
• Must be willing to work together with co-workers as part of a team; also, must be self-motivated and able to work with little or no supervision.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to focus on details required.
• #INDTOL

Pay rate: $20.25/hr base pay

https://www.afnabenefits.com/2026/benefits-hub

Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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