Packaging Machine Operator

Lactalis USA; Merrill (WI); On-site; USD 32,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid Time Off

Education Reimbursement

Retirement Plan

Total Rewards Program

Job summary

Lactalis USA in Wisconsin is seeking a Machine Operator to run packaging filling machines and robotic equipment. You’ll be cross-trained across lines, work over 40 hours per week (Mon-Thu, with Fridays as production needs require), and contribute to a safety‑conscious work environment.

The role pays $23.75 per hour to start, with a comprehensive benefits package, paid time off, and opportunities for growth within the company. GED preferred; prior food/manufacturing experience is a plus.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED preferred.
• Prior manufacturing or fast-paced production experience preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy are required.

Responsibilities

• Perform pre-shift inspections of packaging equipment.
• Monitor packaging/filling lines to ensure correct operation, fill levels, quality and weights.
• Troubleshoot and resolve equipment problems to maintain throughput.
• Meet packaging speed targets while maintaining product quality.
• Keep work area clean and organized; perform end-of-day cleanup as needed.
• Report production issues to Team Lead or Manager; follow safety procedures.

Skills

Attention to detail

Manual dexterity

Vision for inspections

Lifting capability

Stamina for long shifts

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Description

Looking for a job that can turn into a lifelong career? At Lactalis USA, we believe in promoting from within and giving our employees opportunities to grow. Whether you’re starting fresh or bringing years of experience, we’ll provide the tools and support you need to succeed!

Lactalis, the world leader in dairy, is a family‑owned business committed to nurturing the future by providing healthy and delicious dairy products that bring people together every day. We produce award‑winning dairy products that bring people together every day. We offer an enviable range of dairy brands including Galbani®, Président®, Kraft® Natural Cheese, Cracker Barrel®, Black Diamond®, Parmalat®, Siggi’s®, and Stonyfield Organic® in addition to several brands imported from our affiliates in Europe.

Even if you don’t meet every qualification, don’t let that stop you from applying! We’re eager to hear about your PASSION, your STORY, and how you can bring your EXPERTISE to help us make an impact.

From your PASSION to ours

Machine Operators are responsible for operating packaging filling machines and/or robotic equipment such as a palletizer, case erector or boxer. Efficient operation of assigned machines, ensuring product is packed consistent with plant procedures and specifications. Cross training of lines is required and knowledge of at least three (3) machines is expected. Candidates must be able to work over 40 hours per week, Monday through Thursday, Fridays as production needs require. This job is physical and fast‑paced; as a crucial part of maintaining and enhancing our safety culture, every employee is encouraged to speak up about potential hazards and contribute to a safer work environment.

From your EXPERTISE to ours

Key Responsibilities For This Position Include

• Perform pre‑shift operational inspection to determine condition of packaging equipment.
• Monitors packaging and/or filling equipment during line operation to ensure proper operation, fill levels, product quality and weight controls are within specifications.
• Troubleshoots and resolves operational/mechanical problems in a timely manner to ensure efficiency of product flow.
• Meet seconds per pound packaging goals while maintaining high quality product.
• Keep work area clean and organized during operation.
• Perform end of the workday extra work and/or clean up duties as required.
• Report production problems or concerns, including anything out of specifications to your Team Lead or Manager.
• Perform job tasks according to established safety procedures and guidelines is critical
• Complete paperwork as assigned, accurately and legible
• Maintain positive and professional line of communication with peers and Team Lead
• Apply the Good Manufacturing Practices Standard
• Perform other work duties as assigned

Requirements

Education

• High School Diploma/General Education Degree (GED) is preferred

Experience

Prior work experience in a manufacturing or fast‑paced production environment with the ability to process information quickly. Experience in a food industry is ideal; stable and dependable work history is required.

Skills/Abilities

• Strong attention to detail with exceptional accuracy is required to be successful in this role.
• Good manual dexterity and vision abilities for visual inspections from a far and up close with ability to focus
• Push/pull/lift and carry at least 30 pounds continuously and 50 pounds occasionally
• Be able to stand for long periods of time and perform repetitive movements (e.g. twisting, gripping, lifting, bending, reaching)

The ideal candidate is proactive, flexible, and receptive to new ideas; down to earth and pragmatic with great attention to detail. Must be capable of working independently, remaining calm under pressure, and be able to demonstrate an inquiring mind and well‑developed observational skills. Will demonstrate a sense of responsibility and high professional standards, honesty and integrity, with objectivity.

Pay

$23.75 per hour the starting wage, has opportunity to advance through continuous training and learning various equipment. Lactalis offers competitive pay, benefits and paid time off.

Hours

A standard workweek is Monday through Thursday, to include Fridays during our busy season (August through January) and as needed based on production. Work hours per day and/or week can vary with a minimum of 40 hours per week, but in most cases will exceed 40 hours based on production needs. Start times vary between 4:45 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. with no pre‑set end times. A typical day can average 12 hours a day. We do not operate on the weekends, this means Machine Operators DO NOT WORK WEEKENDS!

At Lactalis, we offer a comprehensive Total Rewards Program with a variety of affordable benefits and coverage options. We support insurance costs significantly, contribute generously to retirement plans, and offer Paid Time Off from day one. We are committed to your professional growth, providing training and development opportunities, including Education Reimbursement. Join us and grow your career.

Lactalis is an equal employment opportunity employer. We will not discriminate against applicants with regard to any legally‑recognized basis including, but not limited to: veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, and physical or mental disabilities.

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