Machine Operator I - C1 1st shift

westrockcoffeeinternaljobs; Conway (AR); On-site; USD 32,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Westrock Coffee is seeking a Machine Operator to manage setup, operation, and monitoring of our high-speed coffee production lines. You will ensure safe, efficient packaging and compliance with quality standards, working closely with a team to meet daily targets.

The role requires basic math, problem-solving, and hands-on mechanical aptitude. You will perform routine checks, record downtime, complete change-overs, and contribute to a clean, safe, and collaborative work environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 1–2 years in a food manufacturing environment.
• Effective communication including speaking, writing, listening and instruction following.
• Leadership and training abilities.
• Team-oriented and collaborative culture.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and multitask.
• Basic math skills.
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform simple repairs.

Responsibilities

• Operates production equipment safely to meet production goals.
• Completes documents and reports malfunctions to supervisor/maintenance.
• Interprets work orders to ensure correct materials and specs.
• Troubleshoots basic-to-moderate operation issues.
• Ensures coffee has adequate gas-off time.
• Performs change-overs and coordinates with line support for supplies.
• Operates packaging controls and prints correct labels.
• Adjusts packaging equipment for case size and fill.
• Manages packaging flow: close boxes, label, and conveyor output.
• Conducts visual, weight, and seal inspections of packages.
• Identifies and segregates nonconforming goods.
• Records downtime with explanations.
• Prepares maintenance requests when service is needed.
• Cleans machines and work area to keep lines dust-free.
• Collects samples for QA as required.
• Follows safety and PPE protocols.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Teamwork

Troubleshooting

Attention to detail

Basic math

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Packaging equipment

Job description

The Machine Operator is responsible for the efficient setup, operation, and monitoring of food processing and packaging equipment in a high-speed production environment. This role ensures that machinery runs smoothly and safely, while maintaining strict compliance with food safety and quality standards. The operator performs routine checks, makes necessary adjustments, and collaborates with team members to meet daily production goals. Success in this role requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented setting.

Job Duties:

• Operates production equipment safely and efficiently to effectively hit all production/waste goals.
• Completes all required documents and checklists related to equipment operation, reports any malfunctions to supervisor and maintenance.
• Accurately interprets work orders and other instructions to ensure proper materials and specifications are being followed.
• Troubleshoots and resolves basic-to-moderate operation difficulties.
• Ensures that coffee has had adequate time to gas-off
• Completes change-over sheet, notifies line support when a change-over is necessary, and requests that appropriate film, filters, and boxes be delivered to the packaging line.
• Utilizes computer to open appropriate coffee bin.
• Utilizes data entry console to enter item information in order to print correct item labels.
• Programs packaging machine for item to be run, using touch sensitive computer, based on information listed on the manufacturing specification sheet.
• Adjusts packaging equipment to handle appropriate case size.
• Adjusts amount of coffee per package without stopping production, in order to remain within specified ranges.
• Manages the packaging process by closing boxes, labeling them, and sending them through a tape machine.
• Performs numerous visual, weight, and seal inspections of individual packages during operation.
• Identifies and segregates nonconforming goods for proper disposition.
• Moves boxes from the conveyor belt onto pallets, stacking them appropriately.
• Completes tickets for every pallet, including information such as the item number, date, and case count.
• Records amount of downtime incurred during shift with explanation.
• Completes maintenance work request forms if a mechanic is required to service a machine.
• Cleans machine with an air hose and sweeps the working area throughout the day as necessary to prevent dust on the packaging line.
• Conducts a check of the packaging machines and completes a changeover sheet to ensure that bags on packaging line are correct.
• Collects and submits required samples for quality assurance purposes.
• Follows all quality system and safety protocols by safely operating equipment, wearing proper protective equipment (PPE), keeping work areas clean and organized, and contributing to established safety goals.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED
• 1-2 years of experience in food manufacturing environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively including speaking, writing, active listening and taking instructions.
• Good leadership and training skills
• Ability and willingness to promote and support a positive culture and follow Westrock Coffee values.
• Ability to collaborate with all parts of the operation to achieve goals and objectives.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks
• Able to work in a team environment where honest communication, a positive attitude, engagement, and personal accountability is expected.
• Quick troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Ability to follow specifications and manuals
• Basic math skills
• Mechanical aptitude, including comfort with using tools to make simple repairs

Equal Opportunity Employer / Vets / Disabled