Packaging Mechanic

Institute of Packaging Professionals; Manassas (VA); On-site; USD 48,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Institute of Packaging Professionals seeks a Packaging Mechanic to perform setups and maintenance on bottle packaging lines. The role requires deep knowledge of line components, correct setup, and efficient changeovers, with capacity to operate multiple machines and train operators.

The ideal candidate will have 2+ years in packaging maintenance within nutraceutical, food, or pharmaceutical manufacturing, and be proficient with measuring tools, blueprints, and PLC basics.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of 2 years of mechanical maintenance experience on bottle packaging lines.
• 2+ years in nutraceutical, supplement, food, or pharmaceutical manufacturing maintenance roles.

Responsibilities

• Perform moderate to complex adjustments, maintenance, and repairs on packaging and pneumatic equipment.
• Conduct machine changeovers, troubleshoot mechanical and basic electrical systems, and repair as needed.
• Execute daily preventative maintenance on packaging equipment, conveyors, compressors, and assist with installations.
• Complete work orders for machinery repairs, interpret manuals, diagnose issues, replace parts, test and adjust equipment.
• Use hand and power tools, electric meters, and material handling equipment daily.
• Set up full line configurations independently, report faulty operations or materials.
• Ensure compliance with policies, cGMPs and SOPs; document operation logs and batch records accurately.
• Perform quality inspections, sample testing, and ensure product quality standards.
• Train and guide Packaging Operators in safe operation and sanitation tasks.
• Follow proper gowning and hygiene per SOPs and cGMPs; promote safety.
• Support other mechanical or maintenance needs as required; maintain regular attendance with possible extended hours.

Skills

Mechanical maintenance

Troubleshooting

Reading blueprints

Measuring tools

cGMP/OSHA familiarity

PLC knowledge

English literacy

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Micrometers

Calipers

Volt/Ohm Meters

Scales

Job description

Job Title: Packaging Mechanic

Overview: The Packaging Mechanic plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations by performing setups and maintenance tasks on assigned production lines. This position requires in-depth knowledge of each component in a bottle packaging line, the correct setup, connection between components, and efficient completion of changeovers. The ideal candidate can operate multiple machines simultaneously and perform maintenance on various equipment within the bottle packaging area, including bottle unscramblers, tablet counters, cappers, labelers, and case packers.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform moderate to complex adjustments, maintenance, and repairs on packaging and pneumatic equipment.
• Conduct machine changeovers, troubleshoot mechanical and basic electrical systems, and make appropriate repairs.
• Execute daily preventative maintenance on packaging equipment, conveyors, compressors, and assist with equipment installations.
• Complete work orders for machinery repairs, interpret equipment manuals, diagnose issues, replace or repair parts, test, and adjust equipment.
• Utilize hand and power tools, electric meters, and material handling equipment in daily tasks.
• Set up full line configurations independently, identifying and reporting any faulty operations or defective materials.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, cGMPs, ethical practices, and SOPs, completing documentation such as operation logs and batch records accurately.
• Perform quality inspections during operations, adhering to product quality standards, and execute all required sampling and testing.
• Train and guide Packaging Operators in safe and effective machine operation, including breakdown and sanitation tasks.
• Adhere to proper gowning and hygiene as per SOPs and cGMPs, promoting a safe work environment by following all safety protocols.
• Support other mechanical or maintenance needs as required and maintain regular, punctual attendance with flexibility for extended hours and occasional weekend overtime.

Additional Responsibilities

• Perform additional job-related tasks as assigned by management.

Requirements

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in mechanical maintenance of bottle packaging lines, including troubleshooting, repairs, setup, and disassembly.
• 2+ years of experience in nutraceutical, supplement, food, or pharmaceutical manufacturing in a maintenance mechanic role for bottle packaging lines.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Ability to work effectively in a team environment, read and interpret blueprints, schematics, manuals, and work orders.
• Proficient in using measuring equipment like micrometers, calipers, scales, and Volt/Ohm Meters.
• Familiarity with cGMP and OSHA standards; strong mechanical aptitude for machine repair and troubleshooting.
• Basic English reading and writing skills, with PLC knowledge being an added advantage.
• General proficiency with PCs.

This role requires a mechanically inclined individual capable of ensuring optimal operation of packaging machinery while maintaining the highest standards of product quality and safety.