Operations Downline Operator I

SunOpta, Inc.; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; USD 29,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

SunOpta, Inc. in Allentown, PA seeks an Operations Downline Operator I - Team B to operate forklifts and palletizing equipment for aseptic beverage packaging, perform CIP and sanitation, and ensure safety compliance.

The role requires forklift certification, the ability to read manuals, strong communication, attention to detail, and the capacity to work 12-hour shifts on a 2-2-3 weekend rotation. Reports to Production Supervisor; non-exempt; pay rate $25.00 per hour.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree preferred or two years related experience.
• Forklift certification required; background and drug screens.
• Able to read manuals and problem solve; basic math skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate forklift and palletizing equipment.
• Monitor faults and clear jams in palletizing robot.
• Load outbound trucks and unload inbound trucks.
• Maintain FIFO and monitor materials to support production.
• Complete required paperwork neatly and report delays.

Skills

Forklift certification

Read/write English

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Team player

Problem solving

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree or higher preferred

Two years related experience or equivalent

Tools

Computer skills

Job description

Operations Downline Operator I - Team B

Pay Rate: $25.00

Schedule: 5:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Shift D 12-hour shifts 2-2-3 rotating weekends.

FLSA Status (US): Non-Exempt

Reports To: Production Supervisor

SunOpta Overview:

SunOpta (Nasdaq:STKL) (TSX:SOY) is an innovative and sustainable manufacturer fueling the future of food. With roots tracing back over 50 years, SunOpta drives growth for today’s leading brands byserving as a trusted innovation partner and value-added manufacturer, craftingorganic, plant-based beverages, fruit snacks, nutritional beverages, broths and tea products sold through retail, club, foodservice and e-commerce channels. Alongside the company’s commitment to top brands, retailers and coffee shops, SunOpta also proudly produces its own brands, including SOWN®, Dream, and West Life™. For more information, visit SunOpta and LinkedIn.

Summary:

This position is responsible for all functions relating to operating the palletizing equipment and forklift used to package aseptic beverage finished products as well as cleaning (CIP) and sanitizing.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operate all energized and non-energized forklift and palletizing equipment.
• Monitors and fixes faults as well as clearing any material jams in palletizing robot.
• Pick and load outbound trucks as per paperwork.
• Unload and put away inbound trucks.
• Monitor raw packaging material and supplies to ensure it is supplied in an efficient manner to support production.
• Maintain ingredients and material in a First in First Out basis (FIFO).
• Perform routine maintenance as directed on all forklift and palletizing equipment. Document in written form parts needed to be ordered.
• Relieve other production team members for breaks and absences as required.
• Maintain clean and organized area around equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve basic to moderate operating difficulties involving area equipment.
• Complete inspections of all critical parameters.
• Must be able to work independently as well as professionally with all other team members.
• Completes all required paperwork in a neat & professional manner.
• Proficient and comfortable using a computer.
• Performs a variety of quality and food safety checks to ensure standards and specifications are met.
• Communicate to all other facility personnel regarding any delays or problems that would hinder production.
• Must follow all employee safety, food safety and quality procedures and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
• Responsible for proper shift handoff with incoming/outgoing operators.
• Must wear all required PPE, such as protective gloves, aprons, face shields and safety glasses.
• Leadership and ownership of the department, job responsibilities and job function.
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Forklift certification
• Passing of background and drug screens.
• Able to keep operating logs and records.
• Able to read manuals and problem solve.
• Able to climb off and on forklifts on a regular basis.
• A desire to succeed and good work ethics are required.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• High energy, flexible, self-starter, hands-on, comfortable with little or no administrative support.
• Attention to detail is a must.
• Team player with a sense of urgency and a self-accountability mentality.

Education:

High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate degree or higher preferred; or two years related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

Preferably at least one year experience in food manufacturing.

Knowledge and Skills:

Candidate must possess the knowledge and understanding of basic math skills including weight calculations, averages and percentages. Must be able to read and write in English.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:

Approximately; 100% of work is performed in a manufacturing facility which is not climate controlled and may contain allergens. Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds, climb stairs and stand for long periods of time.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.