Operations Material Handler I

SunOpta; Modesto (CA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

SunOpta, Inc. in Modesto, CA is seeking a Forklift Operator to manage palletizing equipment and forklift operations for aseptic beverage packaging.

The role includes loading/unloading trucks, performing basic maintenance, and ensuring FIFO inventory with strict GMP compliance. The position requires 3–5 years of forklift driving experience, a forklift certification, and the ability to stand for long shifts and lift up to 50 pounds.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of forklift driving and forklift certification.
• 1+ years' experience in a food manufacturing facility.
• Basic math and computer skills.
• Able to stand for long periods (12 hours) and lift 50 lbs frequently.

Responsibilities

• Operate forklift and palletizing equipment.
• Monitor and fix faults and clear jams in palletizing robot.
• Load outbound trucks and unload inbound trucks.
• Maintain FIFO and monitor raw packaging materials.
• Perform routine maintenance and document parts needed.
• Prepare neat, accurate paperwork and maintain logs.
• Comply with GMPs, safety procedures, and food safety checks.
• Communicate delays or problems to facility staff.
• Shift handoff with incoming/outgoing operators.

Skills

Forklift operation

Forklift certification

Basic math and computer skills

Stand for long shifts (12h)

Lifting 50 lbs

Education

High School diploma or GED

Tools

Oracle Knowledge

Job description

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.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School diploma or GED.
• 3 – 5 years of Forklift Driving, forklift certification.
• 1+ years' experience in a food manufacturing facility.
• Basic math and computer skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Oracle Knowledge

Knowledge and Skills:

• Must be able to run all processors, CIPs, and monitor all surge tanks.
• Understands procedures for all allergens and how to prevent cross contamination.
• Must be able to perform maintenance on valves, surge tanks, and processors.
• Must be able to prepare and maintain accurate paperwork, ability to keep operating logs/records.
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve moderate to complex issues associated with the processors and related equipment.
• Ability to assess a situation and make quick and accurate decisions that will aid in production.
• Must adhere to all GMP's and Safety Procedures established by Management.
• Understand terminology related to the process and surge equipment.
• Must be able to stand and work for long periods of time (12) hours and lift a minimum 30-50 pounds frequently and push/pull pallet jacks and lifts with heavy loads.
• Computer and basic math skills.
• Ability to work in a team-based environment.
• Ability to multitask and meet deadlines.

Additional Considerations:

• Location: This position will be at our SunOpta Plant in Modesto, CA.
• Work Environment: The majority of work for this position will be performed in a manufacturing / plant environment.
• Physical Demands: Candidate needs to be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
• Shift: This is a night shift opening on a 2-2-3 pattern; 6 pm to 6:30 am.
• Pay Rate: This position starts at $24.25/hour.

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.