Machine Operator I (2nd Shift)

Ajinomoto Foods; Toluca (IL); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company in Toluca, Illinois, as a Machine Operator – Level 1. This role is pivotal in ensuring the efficient operation of equipment used in food production, including mixers and grinders. You will be responsible for preparing vegetables and proteins, assisting senior operators, and maintaining quality standards. With a starting hourly rate of $19.75 and regular pay increases, this position offers a chance to grow within a supportive team committed to quality and community. If you're eager to make a meaningful impact in the food industry, this opportunity is for you!

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Experience in food manufacturing is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate equipment for vegetable and protein preparation.
• Assist Level 3 Machine Operators with tasks and paperwork.
• Monitor equipment and report issues to leadership.

Skills

Good communication skills

Organizational skills

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Mixers

Dicers

Grinders

Choppers

Job description

Position Summary

About Ajinomoto:

Welcome to Ajinomoto Foods North America in Toluca, Illinois—a place where we’re not just leading the way in food manufacturing but also proudly embracing our role within this close-knit community. As our team rapidly expands, we’re dedicated to offering quality jobs that reflect our passion for community, collaboration, and a positive workplace culture. We’re looking for individuals who share our commitment to making a meaningful impact both within our plant and in the surrounding areas.

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.

Hourly rate for this position starts at $19.75/hr with regular pay increases at 3, 6, and 12 months provided attendance and performance are in good standing.

Position Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Operate equipment to include mixers, dicers, grinders, and choppers used to support dough, vegetable and protein prep in production.
2. Assure all preparations, machine set ups and adjustments are completed prior to scheduled start up for scheduled machinery.
3. 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, and any other product requirements.
4. Monitor equipment to ensure everything is working correctly and report any equipment issues to leadership and Maintenance.
5. Responsible for all ingredients to be labeled/tagged in accordance with Company standards.
6. Work with team leaders, Machine Operator – Level 3, and shipping to ensure correct ingredients and amounts are used in production.
7. Communicate with co-workers concerning situations that have or may impact operations.
8. Maintain equipment and collaborate with leadership and maintenance to report and troubleshoot equipment repairs.
9. Perform work within Company quality standards and governmental regulatory standards.
10. Understand Company quality standards for product defects and immediately report excessive defect levels to the Team Leader.
11. Demonstrate good working knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
12. Follow all safety rules and regulations. Report unsafe work conditions/acts to Leadership.
13. Practice 5s and clean as you go.
14. Perform all other duties as assigned.

Position Qualifications

1. High school diploma or GED preferred.
2. Experience in a food manufacturing production environment is preferred.
3. Good communication skills (reading, writing and verbal) are essential to follow work instructions and interface with co-workers, Team Leaders and Managers.
4. 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.
5. Strong organizational skills and ability to focus on details required.