Packaging Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Eagle Family Foods Group LLC; Waukegan (IL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company that has been a staple in the food industry for over 150 years! This role involves ensuring the quality and efficiency of production processes, where you will perform essential startup checks, conduct routine quality tests, and maintain equipment. If you have a passion for quality assurance and possess mechanical problem-solving skills, this position offers a great opportunity to contribute to a team dedicated to producing high-quality food products. Enjoy a collaborative environment where your efforts directly impact the community and the brand's legacy.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of packaging operator experience is required.
• Knowledge of GMPs, HACCP, and food safety standards preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform startup checks and set up machines for optimal operation.
• Conduct routine tests to ensure product quality and maintain cleanliness.
• Monitor and adjust packaging equipment as needed.

Skills

Effective communication skills

Mechanical problem-solving skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Vertical Form and Fill machines

Pouch machines

Job description

Overview

At Eagle Foods, we are builders of brands, categories, and people. With a heritage of over 150 years, Eagle Foods is a diversified food company producing and marketing sweetened condensed and evaporated milk, snacks, and convenient meal solutions. We are passionate about fostering an entrepreneurial spirit that builds better people and brands, positively impacting our company, products, and community. Our trusted brands include Eagle Brand, Magnolia, PET Milk, Popcorn Indiana, Cretors Popcorn, Helper, and Suddenly Salad. Our products are available across all U.S. retail channels, foodservice, export markets, the U.S. military, and private label businesses.

Responsibilities

• Perform startup checks at the beginning of each shift.
• Set up machines before each shift and conduct testing to ensure optimal operation during production, logging results electronically against efficiency targets.
• Conduct routine tests (seal, visual, weight, etc.) to ensure product quality.
• Perform front-line preventative maintenance.
• Monitor and adjust machines (packaging equipment, scales) as needed.
• Ensure all products to be packaged meet quality standards according to work instructions.
• Oversee safe and efficient operation of all equipment on the production line.
• Review production schedules to confirm correct equipment setup and availability of packaging materials.
• Verify materials are properly counted, weighed, labeled, and documented with part number, weight, and expiration date.
• Maintain accessible partial pallets, bags, and containers with proper documentation.
• Ensure materials and packaging meet customer and company specifications.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the work area, including machine cleaning before and after shifts.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Effective communication skills in English, both verbal and written.
• At least 1 year of packaging operator experience.
• Ability to stand at workstations and climb stairs.
• Proven mechanical problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and knowledge of manufacturing processes.
• Experience with GMPs, HACCP, and food safety standards preferred.
• Experience with Vertical Form and Fill machines (Hayssen, Matrix, TNA) and pouch machines highly preferred.